Kulgam: Sakeena Itoo on Monday said the government is committed to strengthening the tourism sector in Jammu and Kashmir by developing offbeat destinations and promoting adventure tourism activities across the Union Territory.
The Minister was speaking after inaugurating a Tourism Capacity Building Camp at Panchanpatri in Kulgam district.
On the occasion, she also flagged off an all-terrain rally, trekkers’ expedition, cycle rally and other tourism promotion activities organised to showcase the tourism potential of the area.
Addressing the gathering, Sakeena Itoo said such programmes provide an important platform to educate and create awareness among youth regarding various government schemes related to tourism, employment generation and self-employment opportunities.
She emphasized that promotion of unexplored tourist destinations would not only attract more visitors but also create sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities.
The Minister highlighted the importance of involving youth and local stakeholders in tourism-related initiatives for the overall economic development of the region.
The programme was organised with the objective of promoting tourism awareness, adventure tourism and enhancing participation of youth in the tourism sector across the district.
Tourism stakeholders, tour and travel operators, local representatives, district officers and a large number of youth participated in the camp and appreciated the efforts being made to strengthen tourism infrastructure and adventure tourism activities in the area.
The event also witnessed enthusiastic participation in trekking, cycling and other adventure activities aimed at highlighting the scenic and tourism potential of Panchanpatri and adjoining areas.
