Jammu, Mar 29 (KNO): Asserting that Jammu and Kashmir is now prominently showcasing its vast tourism potential on the global stage under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday said that the long-cherished dreams and aspirations of the people are steadily turning into reality.
Speaking at the felicitation ceremony of Jammu Marathon at MA Stadium here, LG Sinha, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said, “Under the leadership of PM Modi, Jammu Kashmir is now showcasing its boundless tourism potential on the world map and the long-awaited dreams and aspirations are becoming a reality.”
The Lieutenant Governor recalled that when Government of India first conceived the Kashmir Marathon in December 2023 meeting, the goal wasn't just to organize a race but it envisioned a new Jammu Kashmir announcing its arrival on the global sporting stage.
He said that through Jammu Marathon, the participants have not only discovered new experiences within themselves but also witnessed the profound changes sweeping Jammu Kashmir.
Pertinently, the maiden international half Marathon in Jammu on Sunday, organized by J&K Tourism department, featuring 21 km, 10 km and 5 km race categories, witnessed the participation of more than 3000 runners from across the country and abroad.
The Lieutenant Governor observed that fueled by the citizens' unyielding resolve, Jammu Kashmir Union Territory is setting new benchmarks in development.
“The renewed resolve taking root in our sporting arena. I am especially delighted that, in pursuit of Fit India, we are also igniting a new sporting revolution in Jammu Kashmir,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor said that the Jammu Marathon symbolizes the profound transformation Jammu Kashmir has embraced since 2019. “Peace, prosperity and enabling conditions have made the UT a destination for world-class events. Its dream realised at last, as after seven decades, J&K claims its rightful place on the global stage,” he added.
Terming the Jammu Marathon as a historic milestone, the Lieutenant Governor said that the Jammu has firmly established itself on the global running map. He said the success of the mega event promises a surge in tourism to the enchanting city of Jammu, benefiting Trade and Businesses and heralding an era of comprehensive development.
“I see the marathon as the one event where runners don't worry about trophies, rankings, or medals. They just think about the next step. And that's the biggest lesson from a marathon.
Jammu Kashmir itself embodies this principle. Since 2019, we have advanced one step at a time, crafting a new identity for this Union Territory. We have transformed it into a hub of peace and prosperity, now capable of hosting international marathons, cricket tournaments, and even international events,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
“Union Territory has moved forward step by step and has now transformed into a completely different landscape. Events such as international-level marathons, the prestigious G20 Summit meetings, and international cricket tournaments are now being successfully organized in J&K. Few years ago, no one would have imagined holding such international events in Jammu and Kashmir. Today, participants themselves are witnesses to the positive changes the region has undergone,” he said.
Inviting tourists and participants from across the country and abroad, the Lieutenant Governor urged people to visit Jammu and Kashmir and experience its transformation firsthand, emphasizing that the region is now ready to host world-class events in a peaceful and welcoming environment.
Satish Sharma, Minister for Youth Services & Sports; Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Dr. Ashish Chandra Verma, Additional Chief Secretary Tourism Department; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; Bhim Sen Tuti, IGP Jammu and senior officials of civil and police administration were present.
Film actors Milind Soman and Gul Panag; prominent citizens, sportspersons and youth in large number also attended the felicitation ceremony—(KNO)