The Vice-President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, recently delivered a thought-provoking address at the inauguration of the Biotech Startup Expo on “Emerging Startup Trends in North India” in Kathua. His speech encapsulated the transformative impact of the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A in the Constitution and highlighted the holistic advancements made in the region of Jammu and Kashmir.
Shri Dhankhar commendably lauded the collaborative efforts of the Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary in dismantling Articles 370 and 35A, branding these provisions as impediments to democratic governance. He emphasized that what was initially conceived as a temporary measure had, over time, become a stumbling block for the nation, creating a system that marginalized the people of the region. The Vice-President hailed the affirmative steps taken by the government, ensuring a more inclusive governance framework and granting previously marginalized sections of society in Jammu and Kashmir their due rights and benefits under various government schemes.
With the removal of Article 370, Shri Dhankhar emphasized the realization of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee’s vision, marking a significant turning point in the region’s history. He underscored five pivotal parameters essential for national progress: peace and stability, equality under the law, transparent and accountable governance, a meritocratic ecosystem, and women’s empowerment. He particularly highlighted the expanded opportunities for women in Jammu and Kashmir due to property rights now available post the abrogation, alongside those conferred by the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam.
Furthermore, the Vice-President celebrated the detachment of development initiatives from partisan interests, allowing for a more inclusive and equitable progress. He cautioned against the potential detrimental impact of politicizing developmental efforts, emphasizing that politics should never hinder progress.
Shri Dhankhar also expressed admiration for India’s remarkable strides in biotechnology, acknowledging the nation’s position as the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem, surpassing China in terms of unicorn startups. Emphasizing India’s robust internet penetration and burgeoning digital transactions, he stressed the significance of nurturing a strong research ecosystem for the nation’s advancement.
Despite regrets for not being able to attend the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology, Jammu’s 8th Convocation Ceremony due to adverse weather conditions rerouting his flight, the Vice-President conveyed heartfelt congratulations to the graduating students and awardees.
The event witnessed the presence of esteemed personalities, including Union Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, Secretary of the Department of Biotechnology, Dr. Rajesh Gokhale, and Secretary of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, among other dignitaries.
In conclusion, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar’s address at the Biotech Startup Expo underscored the significance of progressive governance, highlighting the strides made in Jammu and Kashmir post the abrogation of Article 370, and advocated for inclusive and equitable development for the nation’s holistic progress.