Srinagar, Sep 10 (KNS): The Nigeen Tourist Traders Association (NTTA) on Thursday welcomed the Centre’s decision to extend the special Leave Travel Concession (LTC) facility for Central Government employees visiting Jammu and Kashmir until September 25, 2028, describing it as a positive step for the region’s tourism sector.

In a statement issued, The association said the extension would encourage more Central Government employees and their families to visit Jammu and Kashmir and provide fresh momentum to the tourism and hospitality sectors.

“This is a welcome decision that can expand the visitor base for Jammu and Kashmir. It will benefit hotels, houseboats, travel agencies, transporters, guides, restaurants, handicraft businesses and many other local stakeholders whose livelihoods are connected with tourism,” NTTA Chairman Manzoor Wangnoo said.

Wangnoo said Jammu and Kashmir offered visitors a combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, spiritual heritage and hospitality.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

He, however, stressed that the tourism industry must respond to the opportunity with professionalism, fair practices, cleanliness, safety and responsible environmental conduct.

“Every visitor should return with a positive experience and become an ambassador for Jammu and Kashmir. Tourism can grow sustainably only when we protect our lakes, mountains, forests, heritage and local culture,” he said.

The NTTA expressed appreciation to the Government of India for continuing the special LTC provision and hoped that the decision would lead to increased tourist movement, stronger local business activity and wider employment opportunities across the Union Territory.

The association also urged tourism stakeholders to work collectively with the administration to ensure quality services for visitors and ensure that the benefits of tourism reach local communities.(KNS)