J&K will once again see a surge of tourists: Tourism Minister
The Union Culture and Tourism Minister, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, recently visited Jammu and Kashmir and expressed optimism about the resurgence of tourism in the region. In a statement, he said that Jammu and Kashmir will once again see a surge of tourists, citing the efforts of the Centre and the Jammu and Kashmir government to revive the tourism industry.
The Pahalgam terrorist attack, which took place in August 2019, had a devastating impact on tourism in Jammu and Kashmir. The attack resulted in the loss of several lives and left many tourists stranded in the region. The incident led to a significant decline in tourist arrivals in the region, which had a ripple effect on the local economy.
However, with the efforts of the Centre and the Jammu and Kashmir government, tourism activities have started to regain momentum. The Tourism Minister’s statement is a testament to the progress made in this regard. Shekhawat’s visit to Jammu and Kashmir was part of a two-day trip aimed at assessing the progress of tourism in the region.
During his visit, Shekhawat met with various stakeholders, including hoteliers, tour operators, and local authorities, to discuss the challenges faced by the tourism industry in the region. He also inspected several tourist destinations, including the famous Valley of Flowers in Pahalgam, to assess the infrastructure and facilities available to tourists.
The Union Minister’s optimism about the resurgence of tourism in Jammu and Kashmir is backed by data. According to reports, the number of tourists visiting Jammu and Kashmir has been increasing steadily over the past few months. In fact, the state received over 1 lakh tourists in September 2022, which is a significant increase from the same period last year.
The government’s efforts to revive tourism in Jammu and Kashmir include measures such as upgrading infrastructure, promoting local handicrafts, and showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage. The government has also launched several initiatives to improve the security situation in the region, which has helped to boost tourist confidence.
One of the major attractions in Jammu and Kashmir is its natural beauty. The region is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world, including the Valley of Flowers, the Dal Lake, and the Himalayan mountains. The region is also known for its rich cultural heritage, with a strong tradition of handicrafts, music, and dance.
Tourism is a significant contributor to the economy of Jammu and Kashmir, employing thousands of people directly and indirectly. The industry also generates significant revenue for the state government, which is used to fund various development projects.
The resurgence of tourism in Jammu and Kashmir is not just important for the local economy but also holds significant national importance. Tourism plays a crucial role in promoting cultural exchange and understanding between different regions of the country. It also helps to promote national unity and integration.
In conclusion, the statement by Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat that Jammu and Kashmir will once again see a surge of tourists is a welcome sign. The region has a rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, which makes it an attractive destination for tourists. The government’s efforts to revive tourism in the region, including upgrading infrastructure and promoting local handicrafts, are likely to bear fruit in the coming months.
