Union minister Najma Heptullah today said "misconceptions" that were "created" among minority communities prior to coming to power of the BJP government at Centre, have "turned out to be far from reality".
"An atmosphere of fear and insecurity had been created among minority communities prior to coming to power of the BJP government, but these misconceptions have died natural death and the reality has turned out to be different." the Minister for Minority Affairs said here.
She was speaking at a function to highlight "achievements" of the Modi government on completion of two years in office.
She said the government "does not believe in hollow slogans" and "sustained efforts" towards betterment of minorities have helped "change" the mindset of people and also shown "positive" impact on the ground.
"The Prime Minister talked of development wherever he went and the results are there for all to see...A new era of development and peace has ushered in the country," she claimed, adding every section of society feels "empowered".
She said development of Jammu and Kashmir is high on the agenda of the Central government and it wants "equitable development" in all regions of the state.
She said development and prosperity of minorities are "close" to the heart of the Prime Minister and he has deputed best officers for the purpose of addressing their grievances.
Heptullah said Kashmiri craftsmen and their artwork have universal appeal and her ministry would put in all efforts to give them their due recognition.
Union Minister of State for AYUSH (Independent Charge) and Health and Family Welfare, Shripad Yesso Naik, who was also present on the occasion said efforts of the government has replaced corruption with development from newspapers headline.
