Chief Minister Omar Abdullah proposed naming the Navyug Tunnel, connecting Qazigund to Banihal on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, on Sunday in honour of former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh.
Speaking to reporters, Abdullah highlighted Singh’s significant contributions to Jammu and Kashmir.
Also read | How Manmohan Singh’s scholarship scheme uplifted Kashmiri youth through education
"The four-laning of the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway began during Dr Manmohan Singh's tenure," he said. "Today, the journey between Jammu and Srinagar takes just five hours – a testament to his vision and efforts."
Abdullah suggested renaming the Navyug Tunnel as Manmohan Singh Tunnel, stressing that while others may take credit for recent tunnel projects, it was Singh who laid the groundwork for upgrading the highway.
Describing Singh as a statesman, Abdullah reflected on his enduring legacy in J&K. "His leadership saw the launch of the Round Table Conference on Kashmir, appointment of interlocutors, initiation of cross-LoC trade and introduction of a special scholarship scheme for J&K students. Efforts were also made to rehabilitate Kashmiri Pandits and address the region’s needs," he said.
Abdullah praised Singh’s humility. "He never sought recognition for his achievements, but his contributions ensure he will be remembered as a true son of the soil," he said.
The Prime Minister’s Special Scholarship Scheme (PMSSS), launched by Singh in 2011, significantly expanded educational opportunities for students in conflict-affected Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.
The initiative aimed to uplift youth by improving access to quality education and fostering economic empowerment, benefiting thousands of students across the region.
The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association commemorated Singh’s dedication to youth-focused policies, highlighting the PMSSS as a cornerstone of his vision for advancing student prospects in J&K.
The PMSSS was designed to address educational disparities in J&K and Ladakh by providing financial support to 5,000 deserving students annually. The scheme covers tuition fees, accommodation, and essential costs for higher education at premier institutions across India, alleviating financial hardships for economically disadvantaged families.
"His vision extended beyond financial aid; he saw the scholarship as a means to empower J&K's youth through education and skill development," said Nasir Khuehami, spokesperson for the J&K Students Association, while paying homage to the late prime minister.
Since its inception, the PMSSS has positively impacted over 50,000 students, enabling them to pursue studies in fields such as engineering, medicine, humanities, and social sciences. The scheme has helped break economic and geographic barriers, nurturing a new generation of professionals contributing to national progress.
