The Sinha Effect: Governance, Growth, and Goodwill in Jammu & Kashmir 

Recently I watched Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha’s interview on Aaj Tak with Rajat Sharma that has been impactful in conveying his vision for Jammu and Kashmir and addressing various concerns. He shared his thoughts on the progress made in Jammu and Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370. He highlighted the significant years of peace and development, as well as the challenges still faced by the region.

This is the reason why Manoj Sinha, the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, is considered one of the best governors due to his effective leadership and governance. He is known as a hard taskmaster who is also easily accessible to both officers and the public.  On August 6, Manoj Sinha completed five years as the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, capping a turbulent term that ranged from bureaucratic overhaul to resurgence of violence. Appointed in the aftermath of Article 370’s abrogation, Sinha, an MTech holder in engineering, was tasked with stabilising and integrating a politically fractured region. A seasoned politician and former Union minister, 66-year-old Sinha brought order to a chaotic administrative landscape.

Known for his calm and technocratic style, Sinha’s record in governance and delivery in the Union Territory drew praise even from his critics. He has been credited with several achievements during his tenure, which might make a strong case for him being considered effective in his role.  He has prioritized development in Jammu and Kashmir, accelerating projects like the Srinagar Smart City and improving road networks, tunnels, and railway lines. He has emphasized the importance of women’s empowerment and upliftment of weaker sections of society, ensuring all segments have a stake in the region’s development.

Delivering a lecture at Gandhi Smriti in the national capital, the Lieutenant-Governor rightly point out that Jammu and Kashmir’s economy had more than doubled over the past five years and the Union Territory has been making rapid strides on the path of peace and prosperity under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, achieving all-inclusive growth and social justice, since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019.

He has pointed out that under the Prime Minister’s visionary leadership, the region was now connected to other parts of the country through railways. There was a massive increase in the influx of tourists with more than 5,000 new hotels constructed over the past four years in Kashmir valley itself. Several infrastructure projects were being implemented and many social welfare programmes launched.

He is a seasoned politician and administrator. He has demonstrated strong leadership skills, earning recognition as one of the most honest members of Parliament. He is known for utilizing his MPLAD funds effectively for public welfare, showcasing his commitment to development and community service.  Despite his prominent positions, Sinha maintains a low-profile image, focusing on his work rather than seeking to draw attention to himself.

Having enjoyed a rapport with PM Narendra Modi for almost four decades now, Sinha’s commitment to the slogan of Vikas looks so religious that he has set the deadline for completion of pending projects. Both Sinha and CM- Abdullah have emphasized the need for development in Jammu and Kashmir. Sinha has highlighted the region’s progress, citing increased tourist footfall and development projects, while Abdullah has stressed the importance of restoring statehood and addressing the region’s unique challenges. He has ensured accountability in public institutions, eliminating corruption and supporting terror victims’ families with financial assistance, government jobs, and property restoration. Sinha maintains a low profile while focusing on delivering results, earning recognition as a statesman who measures legacy in outcomes, not applause. He has laid stress on education, health, and infrastructure, preparing a roadmap for universities to improve functioning and leveraging the National Education Policy 2020 for Jammu and Kashmir’s benefit.

An agriculturist at heart, Sinha’s connection to the land and its people has likely influenced his approach to governance. His love for travel has taken him across India, broadening his perspectives and understanding of diverse cultures. There is no doubt that his involvement in philanthropy reflects his compassionate side and commitment to giving back to society. As Lieutenant Governor, Sinha has been instrumental in various initiatives like unveiling the statue of General Zorawar Singh at Jammu University and inaugurating the online booking facility for the passenger ropeway from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Bhawan to Bhairon ji.

Sinha has brought stability and security to the region, which was previously plagued by terrorism and unrest. He has worked closely with the security forces to deliver crushing blows to the terror ecosystem.  Under his tenure, Jammu and Kashmir have witnessed significant development projects, including infrastructure development, new roads, colleges, water supply projects, and entrepreneurial initiatives. He has prioritized inclusive governance, ensuring that all segments of society have a stake in the region’s development. He has emphasized the importance of women’s empowerment and upliftment of weaker sections of society.

He oversaw peaceful and successful elections in Jammu and Kashmir, including the Lok Sabha polls and assembly elections, which saw significant voter participation. He has shown empathy and compassion towards the victims of terrorism, providing support and rehabilitation to the families of terror victims. He has taken initiatives to provide justice and relief to terror victims, including financial assistance, government jobs, and support for self-employment. A special cell has been created to address the concerns of terror victim families and provide them with assistance. He has encouraged the youth of Jammu and Kashmir to lead India’s development journey and provide innovative solutions to the nation’s pressing challenges. He believes that the youth will create a brighter future for the region and ensure long-lasting peace and prosperity.

Overall, Manoj Sinha’s leadership has transformed Jammu and Kashmir, bringing hope and development to the region. His commitment to good governance, security, and inclusive development has earned him recognition as one of the best governors. There is no doubt that Manoj Sinha’s qualities as a leader, administrator, and individual have shaped his approach to governance and development in Jammu and Kashmir.

Author is Free-Lance Journalist, Writer & Cartoonist. He can be mailed at  dixitpatrakar@yahoo.in