Srinagar, June 27 (KNS): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday said that restoring Jammu and Kashmir’s position as the country’s leading tourist destination is a shared responsibility of the government and tourism stakeholders.
Addressing the ‘Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Revival Dialogue’ jointly organized by FICCI and the J&K Department of Tourism at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC), the Chief Minister emphasized sustained efforts to boost tourism and improve the overall visitor experience.
“It is our duty to ensure that J&K regains and retains its place as India’s pre-eminent tourist destination,” said the Chief Minister, underlining new government initiatives focused on infrastructure, connectivity, and niche tourism.
Reflecting on recent challenges, Omar Abdullah spoke of the abrupt dip in tourist activity in April due to an unfortunate incident. “From hundreds of shikaras to none—this reminds us how fragile tourism here can be,” he said, stressing the need for resilience in tourism planning.
He thanked FICCI and tourism industry stakeholders for their continued support during both prosperous and difficult times. “Unlike other regions, we plan tourism here week by week. But we continue, and we endure,” he said.
The CM also announced Project SPREAD, aimed at developing nine new tourist destinations across Jammu and Kashmir, with expected support from multilateral funding agencies.
Highlighting regional diversity, he noted, “Jammu has great potential in pilgrimage and border tourism, while Kashmir offers scenic, cultural, and adventure tourism.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelTogether, they can create a complete tourism ecosystem.”
Discussing infrastructure, Omar Abdullah said the ongoing expansion of railways is transforming accessibility to the Valley. “A direct Delhi-Srinagar train isn’t far off,” he said. He also spoke about the nearing completion of a world-class conference facility in Gulmarg, strengthening MICE tourism potential.
The Chief Minister encouraged the private sector to become active partners in tourism growth. “We welcome your support, suggestions—and your criticism when necessary. Together, we can build a strong, sustainable tourism future for J&K.”
On the occasion, the Chief Minister launched the book ‘Golfing in Paradise’ by Atul Dir, highlighting J&K’s emergence as a top golf tourism destination.
Advisor to the CM, Nasir Aslam Wani, also addressed the gathering and said that J&K was a tourism pioneer in India. He called for the development of niche sectors like adventure, leisure, MICE, and wedding tourism to further diversify and strengthen the region’s appeal.
The event was attended by MLAs Farooq Ahmad Shah, Salman Sagar, Altaf Ahmad Kaloo, Tanvir Sadiq, Additional Chief Secretary Dheeraj Gupta, Commissioner Secretary Tourism Yasha Mudgal, FICCI leaders, and a large group of tourism professionals including film producers, wedding planners, and hospitality experts.(KNS)