Announces major developments for J&K Tourism at 2024 Conclave
International interest in J&K grows under PM Modi
Post-pandemic, J&K tourism grew 300% YoY
Srinagar, June 26: In a significant address at the ‘J&K Tourism Development Conclave-2024’ held at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC), Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha emphasized the transformative impact of the previous year’s G-20 Tourism Working Group meeting in Srinagar.
Sinha noted that the successful and peaceful G-20 meeting has revitalized Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism industry, which had been struggling for years.
“The G-20 Tourism Working Group meeting marked a turning point for J&K’s ailing tourism sector. The participants became brand ambassadors for our hospitality and natural beauty, leading to a significant increase in both foreign and domestic tourist arrivals,” said LG Sinha.
He underscored the role of tourism in boosting the UT’s economy and highlighted the potential of agriculture and allied sectors in generating employment. “Many young individuals are now leaving government jobs to pursue careers in agriculture, creating job opportunities for others,” he noted.
Sinha called for a strategic roadmap to attract private investment in tourism and hospitality, emphasizing the revival of Bollywood’s interest in the valley due to a competitive film policy. He stressed the importance of maintaining quality standards, brand-building, and promoting J&K’s tourism through innovative marketing and digital tools.
Taking a dig at some who claim to be “jack of all jobs,” the LG shared an anecdote involving prominent hotelier MushtaqChaya, illustrating the need for a focused and strategic approach to land use and business development in the region.
Addressing the issue of “conflict properties,” LG Sinha assured that while innocents would remain untouched, those destabilizing peace would face strict action. He announced plans to transform the vacated Tatoo Ground into a state-of-the-art amusement park, predicting it would become a major tourist attraction.
“The renovation of Polo View in Srinagarhas tripled the business for local shopkeepers, further demonstrating the positive impact of infrastructural improvements on tourism and commerce,” Sinhasaid .
In his call to action, LG Sinha urged stakeholders to devise a comprehensive roadmap for promoting various forms of tourism, including spiritual, adventure, summer, eco, wildlife, religious, bird watching, and agriculture tourism. He highlighted India’s 130 million wedding industry, positioning J&K as a premier wedding destination. The LG also pointed out that J&K offers the cheapest power in the country and boasts the lowest crime rate, making it a safe and attractive destination for all.
LG Sinha congratulated the members of the tourism, film, trade, and travel management industries for their contributions. He emphasized the UT Administration’s efforts to develop a sustainable tourism model, building J&K into a global tourist hotspot.
“We have seen unprecedented growth post-pandemic, with a roughly 300% year-on-year increase in foreign tourists,” he said. He attributed this growth to new policies, a conducive environment, and innovative value creation for year-round employment. Under Prime Minister NarendraModi’s guidance, the region has sparked international interest, enriching local communities and building a modern tourism industry.
The two-day conclave will feature discussions on strategies, development models, and innovative approaches to sustainable tourism. Prominent personalities from the film industry, including Imtiaz Ali, Vishal Bhardwaj, Kabir Khan, and Sanjay Suri, are attending the event.
Notable attendees include G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant, Advisor to the Lt Governor Rajeev RaiBhatnagar, Chief Secretary AtalDulloo, Commissioner Secretary of the Tourism Department YashaMudgal, senior officials, industry leaders, and various stakeholders.
