Jammu, March 31 (NationPress) Reaffirming the Central government's dedication to ensure the dignified return of Kashmiri Pandits to the Valley, Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) Lieutenant Governor (L-G) Manoj Sinha stated that efforts are underway to establish a supportive atmosphere for the community's return.

"The government is resolute in facilitating the return of Kashmiri Pandits to the Kashmir Valley. The Central Government is actively working on this. We are making strides to establish the necessary environment, and we will dismantle all barriers to achieve this," he declared.

While addressing the 'Navreh' (Hindu New Year) celebration organized by the Kashmiri Pandit Sabha, L-G Sinha emphasized that all challenges obstructing the return of Kashmiri Pandits to the Valley will be addressed, and the Central government is earnestly pursuing this goal.

During his address, the L-G encouraged the younger generation to commit to celebrating the nine days of Navratri as Nari Shakti Utsav.

"We must resolve to ensure equal opportunities for our daughters in every aspect of life," he stated.

L-G Sinha also acknowledged the remarkable contributions of the Kashmiri Pandit community towards the growth and development of J&K and the nation.

On this occasion, L-G Sinha reassured PM package employees that necessary actions will be taken to guarantee that they receive the same benefits as other J&K government employees.

L-G Sinha interacted with attendees, extending his warmest greetings and best wishes to all. He prayed that the coming year brings joy, happiness, and fulfillment, illuminating their path with hope for a brighter future.

L-G Sinha served as the chief guest at the event, with Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo and former Director General of Police Kuldeep Khuda as guests of honor.

"Jammu and Kashmir is imbued with spiritual energy. The Kashmiri Pandit community has been practicing on this land for thousands of years, reaching the pinnacle of consciousness. On this occasion, we should also honor the great men and women of the Kashmiri Pandit community and pay our respects to those illustrious figures," he remarked.

He commended the significant contributions of all individuals associated with the Kashmiri Pandit Sabha and other stakeholders in preserving and promoting the cultural and spiritual heritage of Jammu and Kashmir.

"The level of coordination and effort demonstrated by various Kashmiri Pandit organizations and the values instilled in the younger generation give me confidence that this vibrant culture cannot be harmed," L-G further expressed.

He pointed out that the celebrations of Navratri and Navreh also signify unity in diversity and strengthen emotional bonds.

"Let us pledge today to further reinforce this unity for the welfare of Jammu and Kashmir," he added.

Former DGP of J&K Police, Kuldeep Hooda, informed IANS, "Regarding the return of the Kashmiri Pandit community to the Kashmir Valley, several speakers shared their insights, and L-G Manoj Sinha detailed the measures being implemented. He emphasized that the decision must be mutual, with both the government and the Kashmiri Pandit community fulfilling their roles..."

Earlier, President of the Kashmiri Pandit Sabha, K.K. Khosa, in his welcome address, highlighted the critical role played by the Sabha over the past century in protecting the interests of Kashmiri Pandits, especially during turbulent times in the Valley.

He appreciated the Central government's efforts under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Union Territory government led by Manoj Sinha over the past decade in combating terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir.

He noted that this approach of zero tolerance towards terrorism has resulted in the situation nearing normalcy in the Union Territory.

He added that this is one of the reasons why the call for return and resettlement is becoming increasingly prominent.

He commended the L-G for decisively addressing all anti-national elements.

"Having received a definitive mandate from the National Conference government in the Union Territory of J&K, we hope that a robust return and rehabilitation policy will be formulated after thorough consultation with community leaders to ensure our resettlement back to our homeland," he concluded.

"Until the new rehabilitation policy is established, we urge that an exclusive employment package for our community's youth be developed to alleviate their despair and frustration over age-related challenges," he added.

He also called for an increase in monthly cash relief to ease the suffering of poor and marginalized members of the community, compensation for landowners, and adequate compensation for Kashmiri Pandits whose properties were destroyed during turmoil, along with the protection of Hindu shrines in the Valley.

The Annual Report was presented by S. L. Bagati, General Secretary of Kashmiri Pandit Sabha.

The program was conducted by Sujata Sathoo, with the vote of thanks delivered by Deepak Dhar.

Deepali Wattal, a renowned singer, performed Saraswati Vandana during the event.