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Development of JK is not possible without normalcy: Fernandes

Mukhtar Ahmad in Srinagar

Economic development and upliftment of people in Jammu and Kashmir is only possible after the return of normalcy, Defence Minister George Fernandes said.

"Those who are supporting the militants in Kashmir do not want development in the state," Fernandes said, addressing soldiers at the Sainik Sammelan in Srinagar. He was in the troubled state on a three-day visit.

"There will be no investment here. Those who are supporting militancy in Kashmir want to halt the overall development of the state," he said.

Fernandes had on Monday visited Chesana, where many families from Prankote and Dakikote migrated after the killing of 26 Hindu villagers.

"The youths (there) are facing unemployment," he said, "Many volunteered to join the armed forces if provided a chance."

The defence minister announced a number of welfare measures for the jawans. These include counter insurgency allowance on the pattern of that existing in the North-East, and special reservation facility at railway stations in Srinagar and Jammu. He said his ministry would soon purchase special railway coaches for armymen.

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