Srinagar, Oct 17: Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Thursday said that the “Kashmir Marathon” will boost the local economy and will promote niche tourism.
Speaking to reporters, Dulloo said that this will be the first edition, and they aim to organize it every year. Marathon will showcase the Valley’s handloom, handicrafts, horticulture, and agriculture sectors alongside the sporting event, he said.
Over 2,000 participants from across India and about 12 to 13 international countries will participate in it, Dulloo said, adding that the Marathon has potential to boost Kashmir’s economy by attracting both local and foreign interest. “There is a lot of scope for adventure in Kashmir. The marathon is a big industry, and we want it to promote ecotourism and sustainable growth,” he added.
Dulloo also said that the Kashmir Marathon is very sustainable and there is no footprint in it, and it can create new employment opportunities for the local community.
He said that preparations are in full swing and the participants are already collecting their kits, with local businesses benefitting from an associated exhibition showcasing Kashmir’s niche products.
“We want this message to reach out to the world through this Kashmir Marathon,” Dulloo said, expressing hopes for the marathon to be a recurring success in future years.
The event is part of a broader effort to promote adventure, leisure and niche tourism in Kashmir which will cement the Kashmir Valley’s position as a growing destination for adventure sports and tourism, he added.
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