Srinagar, Oct 25 (KNS): Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday said Jammu and Kashmir was moving beyond the era of shutdowns and stone-pelting, with young entrepreneurs, educational institutions and cultural activities contributing to what he described as a new phase of development in the Union Territory.

Interacting with participants of Yuva Sangam Phase-VII from educational institutions in Maharashtra, led by IIT Bombay, at Lok Bhavan in Srinagar, Sinha said Jammu and Kashmir was witnessing growing opportunities in tourism, technology, agriculture, handicrafts and education.

“Gone are the days of shutdowns and stone-pelting. Today, Jammu Kashmir is making headlines for its thriving startups, with schools, colleges, and businesses operating seamlessly throughout the year,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

He said thousands of young entrepreneurs were pursuing new opportunities, while Srinagar and Jammu were witnessing increased theatrical, musical and artistic activities.

Sinha urged the visiting students to share their experiences of Jammu and Kashmir with their families and friends, saying such exchanges could help strengthen understanding between different regions of the country.

Highlighting the importance of collaboration and mentorship, the Lieutenant Governor said innovative ideas often emerged when talented individuals, educational institutions and mentors worked together.

He encouraged students to use their knowledge and skills to address practical challenges facing society rather than limiting innovation to academic achievements.

“Partnership is essential in science and technology. Use your knowledge and skills to find solutions to society’s real problems.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelConsider yourselves ambassadors of national unity, so that every young person can become a bridge-builder who connects society,” he said.

Referring to the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative, Sinha said programmes such as Yuva Sangam provided opportunities for students from different states to understand each other's traditions, cultures and development experiences.

He also called for long-term academic partnerships between participating institutions to encourage research, innovation and knowledge-sharing.

Speaking about emerging technological challenges, the Lieutenant Governor stressed the need for responsible use of artificial intelligence and greater awareness about climate change and misinformation.

“Every technological breakthrough brings both immense benefits and disruption. Technology lacks morality and cannot distinguish right from wrong on its own; therefore, human control over Artificial Intelligence is essential,” he said.

Sinha said young people must lead technological transformation while safeguarding democratic values and cultural heritage.

He also urged students to contribute towards sustainable development and remain connected beyond the exchange programme.

The Yuva Sangam Phase-VII programme seeks to promote cultural understanding, educational exchanges and people-to-people connections through institutional visits and interactions among students from different parts of the country.

Principal Secretary to the Lieutenant Governor Govind Jaiswal, Registrar NIT Srinagar Wing Commander Mansi Sunger (Retd), representatives of IIT Bombay, faculty members and students attended the interaction. (KNS)