Jammu, Mar 27 (Reporter) Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to flag off on April 19 the first-ever Vande Bharat train connecting the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country, a senior BJP leader said on Thursday. Giving this information, former Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister and Senior BJP leader, Kavinder Gupta termed the event as a “historic milestone” that will unlock new avenues for tourism and economic growth in the region, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to flag off the much-awaited train on April 19 marking a new era of connectivity that will not only enhance travel convenience but also provide a significant boost to trade, industry, and employment in Jammu and Kashmir,” Gupta said while speaking at the meeting held here at the BJP Headquarters. He stated that seamless rail connectivity has been a long-standing demand of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, and under PM Modi’s leadership, this long-cherished dream is turning into reality. The former Deputy CM also pointed out that the launch of the Vande Bharat train will be a testimony to the Union Government’s resolve to integrate Kashmir into the national mainstream in terms of infrastructure and progress. “What was once a distant dream is now reality. This is the ‘Naya Kashmir’ that PM Modi envisioned, where development, peace, and prosperity go hand in hand,” he remarked. He highlighted that the railway link will provide an unprecedented opportunity for the tourism sector, making travel easier for pilgrims, nature lovers, and adventure seekers eager to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Valley. "The influx of tourists will spur local businesses, benefiting hoteliers, transporters, artisans, and traders, thereby accelerating the economic revival of Kashmir. Emphasising the Modi government's commitment to transforming Jammu and Kashmir, Gupta asserted that the rail link will pave the way for industrial expansion, ease logistics, and create new employment opportunities for youth. He noted that improved transportation infrastructure will encourage investment, strengthen the local economy, and reinforce the Centre’s vision of making Jammu and Kashmir a hub of development...////...