Suchetgarh, Jul 02 (KNO): Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday hailed the extraordinary courage and unwavering resolve of the residents of border villages during Operation Sindoor, calling them the “first line of defence” of the nation.
Addressing a gathering during his visit to border village of Changiya in Arnia Jammu, where he paid obeisance at Daati Maa Dev Sthan of Mahajan Phagetra Biradari, LG Sinha, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) commended the bravery shown by the people living along the International Border. “The people of border areas stood firm in the face of adversity during Operation Sindoor. Their resilience reflects the true spirit of patriotism. Border areas are not just geographical ends — they are the soul of our national security,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor also emphasized that the Vibrant Villages Programme launched by the Government of India is transforming the landscape of border villages through improved connectivity, infrastructure, and essential services. “We will ensure that the villages of this sector are taken up under the Vibrant Villages Programme from this year. Detailed instructions will be issued to prioritize the development of these areas,” he said.
He reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, stating, “PM Modi always says that border residents should never feel they lack any facilities compared to people in other parts of the country. The Government of India has launched a special initiative to develop our border villages as hubs of growth and opportunity.”
Responding to public demands, LG Sinha, as per KNO, assured that the sacred Daati Maa Dev Sthan would be brought on the religious tourism map of Jammu and Kashmir. “Steps will be taken to promote Suchetgarh and its surrounding areas for both general and religious tourism,” he affirmed.
He also urged the people to pray for the successful completion of the ongoing Amarnath Yatra and encouraged citizens to contribute actively towards building a peaceful, prosperous Jammu and Kashmir in line with the vision of the Prime Minister.
“The collective effort of our citizens, especially those living in the most challenging terrains, will shape the future of Jammu and Kashmir. Together, let us move forward with hope and determination,” LG Sinha said—(KNO)