Katra, May 17: The Chamber of Tourism, Trade and Industry Katra (CTTIK) Saturday appealed the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, seeking a comprehensive relief package and tourism revival plan in the wake of the severe downturn faced by the tourism sector following the recent adverse developments in J&K.
As per a statement issued here, the resolution was formally moved by CTTIK President Raj Kumar Padha and was strongly supported by Raman Goswami (Vice President), Atul Sharma (Secretary) and Executive Members Neelam Singh and Arun Sharma. In his statement, he emphasised that the tourism industry remains the backbone of Jammu and Kashmir’s economy, contributing significantly to employment, trade, and overall economic activity. “However, the industry is also the most vulnerable to disruptions, being the first to suffer and the last to recover in the event of any disturbance,” the statement said. “Earlier, members of CTTIK expressed deep admiration for the valour and courage displayed by the Indian forces during the recent Sindoor operation. They also offered heartfelt prayers for the souls of the soldiers, border residents, and innocent tourists of the Pahalgam attack who lost their lives.”
The statement said that CTTIK expressed serious concern that the recent war-like situation occurred during the most vital part of the tourist calendar — the months of April and May, traditionally considered peak season in J&K. “As a result, the tourism season has been completely wiped out, leaving hoteliers, guest house operators, transporters, traders, wholesalers, and allied industries under severe financial stress. The abrupt drop in tourist arrivals has created an economic void across multiple sectors tied directly and indirectly to tourism,” the statement said.
It said that in light of the critical scenario, Goswami appealed to the government to announce an immediate relief package that includes the deferment of EMIs on term loans for at least six months, interest subvention on existing loans and working capital besides postponement of utility bill payments and state dues. “These measures, the chamber believes, are essential to give breathing space to thousands of small and medium enterprises that are struggling to survive amidst plummeting revenues,” the statement said.
It further said that Sharma also urged the government to formulate a targeted tourism revival plan, involving promotional campaigns, stakeholder consultations, and support incentives for tour operators and hospitality providers. The chamber stressed that reviving tourism is not only vital for economic recovery but also for restoring confidence among the business community and travellers alike.
