Pulwama, Mar 08: Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) Chairman Ghulam Nabi Azad on Friday called upon the people of Jammu and Kashmir to “take advantage of the prevailing tranquillity” by exercising their voting rights and casting their votes decisively.
Speaking to reporters at Abhama village in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district during a public rally, Azad said the voters should break away from old political affiliations that “offer little new” to the region.
He cautioned against clinging to outdated political parties, saying that doing so would complicate government formation.
The former chief minister highlighted the establishment of his own political party as a testament to his commitment to offering a fresh alternative to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Hinting at PAGD, Azad stressed the importance of independent political action, noting that his party has operated without alignment with any larger coalition since its inception.
The DPAP chief called upon the Election Commission of India (ECI) to expedite assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, advocating for them to be held immediately after parliamentary elections rather than waiting until September.
In his address, he outlined the untapped tourism potential across all districts of Jammu and Kashmir, lamenting the historical neglect of this vital sector. “There is a need for infrastructure development and amenities at tourist destinations to fully exploit their economic potential and create employment opportunities, particularly for the youth,” he said.
During his tenure as Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Azad disclosed that he had identified approximately 100 new tourist destinations, yet was unable to pursue their development due to his resignation. He stressed the importance of diversifying tourism offerings beyond traditional attractions, advocating for the inclusion of homestays and orchard garden tourism to bolster employment opportunities.
Azad also underscored the necessity of improving road infrastructure and providing essential facilities such as lavatories and cafes to enhance the overall tourist experience. “With adequate investment and strategic planning, the tourism sector could serve as a significant driver of economic growth and job creation in the region,” he said.
