On World Tourism Day, National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah praised the Jammu and Kashmir government for its decisive actions to revive tourism following the tragic Pahalgam terror attack. He lauded the reopening of various tourist destinations as a significant step towards restoring faith in the region’s tourism sector.
During a statement issued on September 27, Abdullah expressed heartfelt greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir and global admirers of the region’s remarkable natural beauty and vibrant cultural heritage. He noted that World Tourism Day serves as a reminder of the essential role tourism plays in bolstering the local economy and providing livelihoods for numerous families.
“Tourism is not just an economic activity for us; it’s woven into the very fabric of our society,” Abdullah stated. His remarks came in light of the governmental initiatives aimed at reviving the sector, which witnessed a significant setback after the Pahalgam attack on April 22 that claimed 26 lives, including those of many innocent tourists.
Abdullah emphasized the effective response from the Omar Abdullah-led government in restoring tourist confidence, thus reaffirming Jammu and Kashmir as a safe and thriving destination for travelers. He remarked, “These efforts have laid a robust foundation for sustainable and long-term tourism growth.”
The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, recently announced the reopening of several tourist hotspots that had faced closures after the unfortunate incident. Abdullah welcomed this decision and underscored the necessity for inclusive development, urging a balanced focus on less-highlighted regions like Chenab and Pir Panjal.
Highlighting the need for sustainable tourism models, Abdullah said, “The growth of tourism should come hand in hand with environmental conservation and cultural preservation.” He advocated for a holistic approach that safeguards the region’s heritage while delivering economic benefits.
As he reflected upon the celebrations of World Tourism Day, Abdullah reinforced the call to action for all stakeholders. “Let this day remind us of our shared responsibility in building a peaceful, progressive, and welcoming Jammu and Kashmir, where every visitor feels valued, and every local citizen benefits from tourism-led growth,” he concluded, encapsulating the essence of tourism as a catalyst for broader development.
