India

Dal Lake Was ‘Dull’ In 1990 Now Thriving: Dhankar

Vice-president Jagdeep Dhankhar, speaking at the 83rd foundation day celebration of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) on Thursday, highlighted the transformation of Jammu and Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370. Reflecting on his visit to Srinagar in 1990, Dhankhar recalled how the Dal Lake area was nearly deserted, contrasting it with the bustling tourist activity today.

“Everything was dull. D-U-L-L,” Dhankhar said, reminiscing about his time as a Union minister when he stayed near Dal Lake. “Not even 20 souls could be seen on the road. A state of dejection and hopelessness.”

He remarked that the Rajya Sabha, which he presides over as chairman, was informed last year that over two crore tourists had visited Jammu and Kashmir. The Vice President attributed this resurgence to the removal of Article 370, which he emphasized was always meant to be a temporary provision of the Constitution.

“Article 370, which was seen as permanent by some despite being temporary, is no longer applicable,” he stated. Drawing comparisons between the 1990s and present-day India, Dhankhar noted how far the nation has come. He pointed out that in the 1990s, India had to pledge its gold reserves with Swiss banks to maintain financial credibility, as its forex reserves had dipped to just USD 1 billion. At the time, international financial institutions like the World Bank and IMF dictated terms to India.

“Now, the IMF says India is the most-favored global destination for investment and opportunity, and the World Bank views India as a role model for digitization,” Dhankhar said, emphasizing India’s current global stature. He also lauded the current administration for eliminating corruption and middlemen from power corridors, stating that “all transactions now take place digitally, without a human interface.”

Expressing satisfaction with the increasing recognition of the scientific community in India, the Vice President praised the government’s commitment to science and technology. “Recognition for the scientific community has gone up significantly in recent years, and Prime Minister Modi’s heart and soul are deeply invested in science,” he added.
Dhankhar’s remarks come amid the ongoing assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting the region’s evolution and the government’s emphasis on development and governance.

Shukriya Shahi

I am a seasoned journalist at "Daily Guardian", known for delivering impactful stories across politics, world affairs, and entertainment. With a sharp eye for detail and a flair for storytelling, I craft articles that inform, inspire, and captivate readers. Committed to journalistic excellence, I thrive on uncovering the stories that matter most.

Recent Posts

Russia Targets Ukraine’s Power Grid Again With Massive Missile And Drone Strikes

Over 40 missiles and 70 drones hit Ukraine's energy facilities, targeting gas infrastructure. Despite air…

2 hours ago

Look At Global Leaders Reaction To Gaza Ceasefire Deal After 15-Month Conflict

World leaders, including President Biden, UN Secretary-General Guterres, and European officials, welcomed the ceasefire deal,…

2 hours ago

Cristiano Ronaldo Set To Extend Saudi Arabia Stay Becomes Co-Owner Of Al Nassr: Report

Cristiano Ronaldo’s new contract with Al Nassr will not only keep him at the club…

3 hours ago

Missi Roti Sparks Global Debate After Being Ranked Among World’s Worst Foods

Missi Roti, a nutritious Indian flatbread, ranks 56th on Taste Atlas' 'worst foods' list, causing…

3 hours ago

South Africa’s Illegal Gold Mine Crackdown Kills 78, Hundreds Rescued

South African authorities rescued 246 survivors and recovered 78 bodies from an illegal gold mine.…

3 hours ago

Micheal Martin Set To Lead Ireland Again As Prime Minister In New Coalition Deal

Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin is set to reclaim Ireland’s premiership under a new coalition…

3 hours ago