As a son of Kashmir and a medical doctor who has worked across continents—from the policy chambers of the United States to the healthcare corridors of the Europe, China and the Middle East—I’ve witnessed what true 21st-century development, stability, and global integration can look like. And I can say with conviction: this is the future we must claim for Kashmir—one of hope, prosperity, and global connection.

For decades, our land—the crown of India—was held hostage by the wrong narratives, the wrong leadership, and by forces that cared more about retaining power than uplifting people. Too many of our youth were misled, too many lives were lost to terrorism, and too many opportunities were crushed under the weight of outdated politics and violence.

But we say, no more!

We are the new voice of Kashmir—a generation that wants to build, not break; innovate, not isolate. A generation that proudly stands with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a strong, united, forward-looking India, where Kashmir is not a point of debate, but a beacon of development. I have seen both worlds—and I say this as someone who deeply loves his people: progress is peace and opportunity are the answer to outrage. Kashmir’s future is in our hands, requiring partnerships and collaborations with the rest of our country and the world. We don’t want to be remembered as victims. We want to be known as visionaries.

The PM Modi Difference: From Darkness to Development

This government has not just talked about transformation—it has delivered it. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, Jammu and Kashmir has seen a transformative shift from years of darkness to real development. In healthcare, the AB-PMJAY-SEHAT scheme now provides free health insurance across the region, while Jan Aushadhi Kendras and Tele-Manas have expanded access to affordable medicines and mental health care. Institutions like AIIMS are now coming to Jammu and Kashmir, alongside new medical colleges, nursing schools, and allied health institutions.

Initiatives in horticulture, research, skill development programs, startups, and women’s safety and empowerment are creating new pathways for growth and opportunity, marking a new era of accessible, quality healthcare and education in the region. Infrastructure has seen unprecedented growth—new roads, tunnels, railways, and enhanced air connectivity are stitching the region closer to the rest of the country. The boost in digitalization and the embrace of technologies like AI are creating fresh opportunities, especially for the youth.

Tourism, once paralyzed by conflict, is now thriving again, with visitors from across the globe rediscovering the beauty, culture, and spirit of the Valley. Hosting major events like the G20 has further placed Kashmir on the international map, reflecting a broader shift toward peace, progress, and global engagement.

A Message to the Youth of Kashmir AND to the WORLD:

We are the new voice—bold, brilliant, and deeply patriotic. We want education, not exploitation. We want innovation, not intimidation. We want peace, prosperity, and power, the kind that comes from building a new future together. Let us walk hand in hand with PM Modi’s  vision for a $5 trillion Indian economy. Let us be part of our nation’s tech revolution, its global diplomacy, its medical breakthroughs, and its space achievements. Let us make Kashmir the crown it was always meant to be—not just in geography, but in dignity and direction.

To anyone who seeks to disrupt this path—we say, you are the enemy of New Kashmir. To those who walk with us in progress—we say, you are a partner in building our tomorrow.

As a young doctor and public health advocate, I want the next generation of Kashmiris to dream beyond violence—to focus on education, entrepreneurship, science, research, AI, journalism, health, diplomacy, and more. I want our girls to lead in labs and boardrooms, our boys to innovate, and our families to thrive in a future that is secure and stable. We deserve to live the kind of life befitting the 21st century, a life rooted in opportunity, peace, and pride. It’s time to shift our gaze forward, to embrace the positives and build what’s next. We Kashmiris are proud of our culture, our resilience, and our deep contribution to the soul of India. And now, we say it loud and clear:

No more terrorism. No more manipulation. No more lost generations:

To the world, the new Kashmir has made its stance clear—we stand firmly against terrorism. Our collective voice was heard loud and strong when we took to the streets after the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam. We are the crown of India, and we will never allow anyone to tarnish that again. 

Disclaimer: The opinions and views expressed in this article/column are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of South Asian Herald.

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