New Delhi: J&K BJP President and MP (Rajya Sabha), Sat Sharma, highlighted the immense potential of religious and border tourism in Jammu & Kashmir, particularly in areas adjoining the Line of Control (LoC) under a Special Mention in Rajya Sabha.
While addressing the House, Sat Sharma emphasised that Jammu & Kashmir has historically been a land of rich cultural and spiritual heritage, dotted with ancient temples, shrines, and centuries-old places of worship. He said that many of these heritage sites are located in border and near-border areas, which remain largely untapped in terms of tourism and development.
Sat Sharma, highlighting the economic potential of these sites, stated that promoting religious tourism in these regions can generate substantial livelihood opportunities for local people. He pointed out that initiatives such as home-stays, guest houses, local transport services, guide services, handicrafts, and traditional cuisine can provide sustainable income sources to people living in remote and border areas, where employment options are otherwise limited.
He further asserted that focused development in this direction would not only strengthen the local economy but also contribute to inclusive growth and social upliftment of the border population.
Sat Sharma urged the government to adopt a comprehensive and balanced approach between security and accessibility in sensitive areas, while asking for the active involvement of local communities in the development process. He stressed that sacred sites, border villages, and vulnerable communities must not be left behind in the journey of development.
Sat Sharma also lauded the consistent efforts of the Union Government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating that the Modi government has brought unprecedented focus on infrastructure development, tourism promotion, and socio-economic upliftment in Jammu & Kashmir. He expressed confidence that with sustained efforts and visionary policies, the region can emerge as a major hub for religious and border tourism in the country.
