Why Are Residents of J&K Praising PM Modi for Development and Security?

Jammu, June 10 (NationPress) The people of Jammu and Kashmir have voiced their gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s governance, emphasizing the remarkable developmental transformations throughout the Union Territory, particularly following the abrogation of Article 370. Many residents expressed feelings of safety and optimism in their homeland, pointing to the completion of significant infrastructure projects and enhanced security as vital achievements under the PM-led NDA administration.

As the Modi government marks 11 years in power, the citizens of Jammu highlighted projects such as the construction of the Chenab railway bridge and the finalization of the Katra to Srinagar rail connection as representations of new advancements in the region.

In an interview with IANS, Aditya, a local student, noted, “IIT Jammu has been established and our community is now accessing better job opportunities because of it. A railway link from Katra to Srinagar is operational now, which used to take a lot of time to travel. Now, you can reach the city in 3-4 hours. Traffic congestion has significantly improved.”

Recently, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated a high-speed train that signifies the completion of the ambitious 272-km Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL).

This railway line, which weaves through narrow gorges and deep valleys nestled in the Himalayas, provides a scenic yet strategic connection for the region. The modern train service, operational six days a week, has significantly reduced the travel time between Katra and Srinagar to under three hours.

Additionally, PM Modi inaugurated the Chenab railway bridge -- recognized as the world’s highest railway bridge -- further contributing to India's infrastructure achievements.

Sunil, another student from Jammu, acknowledged the rapid pace of progress.

“Long-delayed projects are now completed swiftly. There’s been significant development, with IITs and IIMs established across J&K and the country. The completion of the Katra-Srinagar railway link has simplified our travel. Good roads, railway lines, security, and safety have all been ensured by the Prime Minister,” he stated.

Business owners in the region shared similar views, associating the improved sense of security and infrastructure growth with enhanced economic opportunities.

They praised the implementation of PM SVANidhi -- a central-sector micro-credit initiative designed to assist street vendors. This scheme offers a collateral-free working capital loan of Rs 10,000, followed by additional loans of Rs 20,000 and Rs 50,000, alongside a 7% interest subsidy.

This initiative aims to boost digital presence in India by encouraging street vendors to embrace digital transactions. To promote this transition, vendors can earn a cashback of up to Rs 100 per month for utilizing digital payment methods.

Rameshwar, a businessman in Jammu, expressed his gratitude to the Prime Minister. “I utilized the PM SVANidhi scheme to secure a loan and start my business, which has been thriving. The security situation has improved post the abrogation of Article 370, and our business has flourished thanks to the Prime Minister’s efforts,” he remarked.

Satpal, another local entrepreneur, commended the emphasis on travel and connectivity.

“Travel development has been a priority for PM Modi. During his tenure, roads, flyovers, and now the Katra-Srinagar railway link have been completed. The launch of PM SVANidhi has been immensely beneficial for us,” he pointed out.

He added that the abrogation of Article 370 was a significant turning point for the region.

“A lot has changed since the abrogation of Article 370. However, there is still much work to be done, and we stand united with the government in this journey. We appreciate PM Modi for these changes,” he concluded.