"We Will Rid J&K Of Terror, Separatism": Watch PM Modi's Full Speech | Read

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today said the government's Kashmir decision would bring about a host of positive changes in the lives of the common man. It would mean the protection of Indian laws, industrialisation, a boost in tourism and therefore more employment opportunities, he said in his televised address to the nation days after the government's move to end the special powers of the state and bifurcating it to union territories. He also underscored Union Minister Amit Shah's assurance that Jammu and Kashmir will not be a Union territory for long.

Here are the highlights of PM Modi's address to the nation:

- People of Jammu and Kashmir and people of Ladakh were deprived of their rights

- The dreams of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, BR Ambedkar, Syama Prasad Mookerjee, Atal Bihari Vajpayee and crores of Indians have been fulfilled

- A new era in Jammu and Kashmir has started. Citizens now have equal rights and responsibilities. I congratulate people of the region and citizens

- Article 370 was harming the people and children of Jammu and Kashmir, and their loss was never discussed

- People didn't even know the benefits that accrued due to Article 370

- Article 370 and Article 35A dragged Jammu and Kashmir towards terrorism, dynasty politics and graft

- This (Article 370) was being used as tool by Pakistan; nearly 42,000 people died over the last three decades

- Earlier, laws made by parliament didn't benefit 1.5 crore people, Jammu and Kashmir never benefited from the country's laws

- All central and state government posts would be filled in Jammu and Kashmir. This will lead to employment generation; Private firms would also be encouraged to generate employment opportunities

- Work will accelerate on all projects; connectivity-related projects, projects related to road and rail

- People who came to India after 1947 couldn't contest polls in Jammu and Kashmir, they had rights everywhere else in India but in Jammu and Kashmir

- You will continue to have MLAs, continue to have a Cabinet, you will continue to have a Chief Minister in Jammu and Kashmir; We will free Jammu and Kashmir of terrorism

- Jammu and Kashmir will touch new heights of development and attract people from all over the world; Ease of living will go up for people of the region

- There was a time when Kashmir was the preferred location destination for Bollywood movies; When the situation is normal, not just Indians, but people from world over would shoot movies in the region

- The region has the potential to become world's biggest tourism destination; Filmmaking would provide employment; I urge filmmakers to think about entertainment infrastructure, theatres etc.

- In Ladakh, there is a plant known as Solo, which is a boon to those living in high altitudes. It has vast medical properties. Shouldn't such things be sold worldwide

- There are countless such plants and herbal products are all over the region. They will be identified and marketed, people and farmers would be directly benefited

- There are some people who opposed the government's move, I respect their opposition (to the decision); it is essential in a democracy

- Centre is responding to them (opposition) and we are working to improve things. I urge them to act in nation's interest and help the government and nation in creating a new environment in the region

- We had to take certain steps in Jammu and Kashmir for precaution; the people have been understanding

- The government is working to ensure that people aren't troubled on Eid; the government is even helping those who want to go to Jammu and Kashmir on Eid

- Many police and security officers have died over the years; they all wanted a better Jammu and Kashmir. We have to work to achieve their dreams