Kashmiri Pandits preserved culture and identity despite immense adversity: J&K Lt Governor

February 19, 2026

Jammu: Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Sinha released Prof. Ashok Koul’s book, Kashmir — Nativity Regained, which explores the Kashmiri Pandit exodus and chronicles the terror, suffering, and displacement the community endured during 1989–90.

Speaking at the event, Lt Governor Sinha praised the resilience of Kashmiri Pandits for preserving Kashmir’s philosophy, culture, language, and traditions despite decades of struggle and adversity.

Commitment to Return and Rehabilitation

Sinha highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to ensure the safe and dignified return of Kashmiri Pandits. He said:

“Jammu and Kashmir has been undergoing a profound transformation since 2019. The sinister plot of adversaries to destroy the dreams and destiny of the people of the Union Territory has been decisively dismantled. Through tireless efforts, this land’s ancient glory has been restored, and development has been accelerated.”

The Lt Governor also mentioned the launch of the Kashmiri Migrant portal in 2021 to help recover properties and lands belonging to displaced Pandits. He stressed that the younger generation should remember the pain of being uprooted while also acknowledging the terror faced by Kashmiri Muslims due to Pakistan-backed militants.

Resilience and Cultural Strength

Sinha called Prof. Kaul’s book a “poignant reminder” of the community’s endurance and cultural strength. He said the era now is one of reconstruction, where Kashmiri Pandits remain central to the civilisational and cultural narrative of Jammu and Kashmir.

The ceremony was attended by eminent personalities including Prof. Umesh Rai (Vice Chancellor, University of Jammu), Prof. Neelu Rohmetra, Dr. Neeraj Sharma, and senior officials such as Ramesh Kumar, Bhim Sen Tuti, and Dr. Rakesh Minhas, along with students and members of the public.