Srinagar, June 26(UNI) Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today hoped that discussions on restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir should end soon so they get what they have been demanding.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a special national integration camp organised by the Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh NCC Directorate in Srinagar, Omar said, “We want these discussions to end as soon as possible. And we should get what we are asking for.”
He was responding to queries on the statehood discussions.
The chief minister also welcomed the sanctioning of several projects for Jammu and Kashmir.
"Since the completion of the Mughal Road in 2008-2009, people have been saying that this road should run for 12 months a year and a tunnel should be built for it. Today, the the tunnel has been sanctioned. Similarly, people have been asking for a tunnel at Sadhana Pass..These projects will give a huge boost, " he said, adding now, they will have to try for some more tunnels, like in Gurez, which have been left out.
Earlier, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah while addressing the NCC Special Integration Camp called upon cadets from across the country to serve as ambassadors of peace, unity, and harmony by sharing their positive experiences of Jammu and Kashmir with people in their home states.
“I urge you to go back and be our ambassadors,” said the Chief Minister, who was the chief guest on the occasion. “Tell your families, friends, and communities about the Jammu and Kashmir you saw—the warmth of its people, the beauty of its culture, and the reality beyond headlines.”
While acknowledging the recent tragic terror attack in Baisaran that claimed 26 innocent lives, Omar Abdullah said, “This year has brought us pain we hoped never to experience again. But even in our darkest hours, there is hope. There is light at the end of every tunnel.”
Emphasizing the importance of continued engagement with Kashmir, the Chief Minister urged NCC authorities to organize future camps that include travel by train. “Let cadets witness the incredible engineering marvels that connect the Valley to the rest of the country. It will be a journey of inspiration,” he suggested.
Lauding the cadets for their impressive cultural performances, he remarked, “In less than an hour, you transported us from the snowy heights of Kashmir to the sunlit shores of Kerala. Your discipline, effort, and talent are truly commendable.”
Reflecting on his own school days, Omar Abdullah spoke about the enduring value of bonds formed during such camps. “When you live, travel, perform, and share experiences together, you build relationships that last a lifetime. Cherish them—they are priceless.”
The Chief Minister underscored the strength of India’s unity in diversity, recalling the opening words of the Constitution—“We, the People of India.” He said, “We are united not despite our differences, but because of them. Our real strength lies in our togetherness.”
“These integration camps are not just about training or cultural showcases. They symbolize the living spirit of India—an unbreakable emotional and physical bond among its people. As long as we nurture this spirit, no adversary can weaken us,” he said.
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