In a significant move aimed at reviving the tourism sector in Kashmir, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today chaired a high-level meeting with key tourism stakeholders, government officials, and law enforcement authorities. The meeting sought to assess the impact of recent events on tourism and strategize the way forward.
The meeting was attended by Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Additional Chief Secretary to the CM Dheeraj Gupta, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, Inspector General of Police Kashmir VK Birdi, Commissioner Secretary Tourism Yasha Mudgal, and Director Tourism Kashmir Raja Yaqoob.
Prominent figures from the tourism industry, including Chairman of the J&K Hoteliers Club, Mushtaq Ahmad Chaya, and other stakeholders representing various tourism sub-sectors, were also present.
During the meeting, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah called for the creation of a comprehensive tourism revival plan to be developed jointly with the Tourism Department. He emphasized that the strategy should be initiated after the conclusion of the ongoing Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra to capitalize on the increased footfall and visibility.
The Chief Minister proposed a multi-faceted approach that includes support for hotels, houseboats, shikaras, taxis, and handicrafts. He also floated innovative ideas such as organizing unique shopping festivals inspired by Dubai’s model, cultural performances by local artists, and the revival of laser fountain shows to enrich the tourist experience.
“I understand the challenges many of you are grappling with—whether it is managing establishments, retaining employees, or servicing bank loans,” Omar Abdullah said. He highlighted the plight of small-scale entrepreneurs who have recently invested in tourist taxis, minibuses, or guest accommodations.
In response, the Chief Minister announced his intent to engage with the central government to advocate for a dedicated relief package, particularly targeting individuals in border areas whose homes and shops have been damaged. He also suggested exploring the possibility of loan deferments for at least two quarters to ease financial stress on stakeholders.
Omar Abdullah expressed optimism about the ongoing interest in Jammu & Kashmir as a tourist destination. “There is enthusiasm from various quarters for promotional activities and FAM (Familiarization) tours. I’ve received numerous calls from individuals and organizations eager to promote the region,” he noted. The Chief Minister added that he would personally participate in promotional campaigns once the situation stabilizes.
He assured the stakeholders that he would raise the matter of financial support and interest relief with the Prime Minister, Finance Minister, and other senior central government officials.
Earlier in the meeting, tourism representatives proposed several actionable steps, including the organization of FAM tours, inviting corporate entities to avail Leave Travel Concession (LTC) schemes in Kashmir, hosting government conferences in the region, and advocating for reduced airfares to boost tourist inflow.
They underscored the importance of leveraging the upcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra to send a strong message that Kashmir is safe, welcoming, and ready to embrace tourists with open arms.
The meeting concluded with a unanimous commitment to working collaboratively towards restoring and strengthening Kashmir’s vital tourism economy.
