Hope recent changes in Jammu and Kashmir will benefit the region: Indian President Kovind

"I am confident that the recent changes made in Jammu-Kashmir and Ladakh would be of immense benefit to those regions," Kovind said.

He addressed the nation for the first time since the Lok Sabha polls was held.

"Earlier this summer, the people of India participated in the 17th general election, the largest democratic exercise in human history. For this I must congratulate our voters," Kovind said.

He said it is the duty of the people of the country to take India to new heights.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday said the situation in Jammu and Kashmir is still sensitive and the Centre must get a reasonable time to ensure normalcy in the Valley, media reports said.

The top court said while it was hearing a petition seeking an immediate lifting of lockdown in Jammu and Kashmir which has lost its special status by the Centre's move of scrapping Article 370.

The apex court has also adjourned the case for two weeks.

The BJP government bifurcated Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories.

Several Kashmir leaders including former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Ministers- Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti- have been kept under detention. Section 144 is still imposed in the state.