Srinagar, May 26 : President Pratibha Patil today said that the people of Jammu and Kashmir have demonstrated their determination to move ahead on the true and constructive path of peace and progress.

Addressing a function to mark the opening of the Institute of Kashmir Studies here, President Patil said it is important to create a secure environment and defeat divisive designs of terrorism and violence.

"I am aware of the difficulties that the people of this State have undergone due to violence and terrorism," she said.

"However, we are all proud of the resilient and strong people of Jammu and Kashmir, who have demonstrated, over the past few years, their determination to move ahead on the constructive path of peace and progress," she added.

The President also said that both the State and the Central Governments have taken development of the State as a top priority objective and enunciated policies and programmes towards that end. The objective is to secure a better life for our citizens where each one can have the opportunity to grow.

"The State has tremendous potential in horticulture, floriculture, handicraft, tourism and IT among others. Equally important is our determination to create a secure environment and to defeat the divisive designs of terrorism and violence," she added.

"It will provide a platform for scholars in the field of Kashmir studies regarding ideas on pluralistic cultures and tolerant societies. The younger generation should be involved in the studies, so as to benefit from this initiative," Patil said. (ANI)