Srinagar, Aug 31: Jammu and kashmir government today called for Kashmiris to be allowed to visit parts of the state across the Line of Control on either side as a goodwill gesture and confidence-building measure. Governments of India and Pakistan should allow people of the state to cross the LoC as they exchanged goodwill delegations to pave the way for a meaningful dialogue, state Revenue Minister Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen said addressing the convocation ceremony at the Islamic Research Institute here. "People of Jammu and Kashmir are aspiring for peace and the initiative taken by Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee has rekindled new hopes for peace," he said.

Political leaders of all parties should extend their full cooperation in taking forward the peace process, the minister added. Hailing the contribution of the Islamic Research Institute in spreading education in south Kashmir, Yaseen called upon the institute to impart value-based education to make the youth tolerant, peace loving and enlightened citizens.

"The need of the hour is to produce youth who have a scientific, progressive and secular outlook," he said.

The function was also addressed by Forest Minister Ghulam Mohiuddin Sofi, who announced a grant of Rs one lakh to the institute.

Bureau Report