Srinagar: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, on Friday reviewed the tourism potential of the scenic Panchanpatri area in Kulgam district and stressed the need for developing the destination as part of the government’s efforts to promote offbeat tourism across Jammu and Kashmir.
Chairing a meeting at the Civil Secretariat, the minister assessed measures required to bring Panchanpatri onto the tourism map of the Union Territory and directed the concerned departments to ensure the development of basic amenities to attract visitors.
She asked the Tourism Department to assess the scope for strengthening tourism infrastructure in the area and formulate plans for its sustainable development.
“Panchanpatri possesses immense natural beauty and has the potential to emerge as a major attraction for nature lovers, trekkers and adventure tourists,” the minister said.
Sakeena Itoo said the government is focused on identifying and developing lesser-known destinations to diversify Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism landscape and create new livelihood opportunities for local communities.
She observed that promotion of unexplored tourist destinations not only enriches visitor experiences but also contributes to rural economic growth through employment generation and entrepreneurship.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to inclusive tourism development, the minister said emerging destinations such as Panchanpatri can play an important role in strengthening Jammu and Kashmir’s position as a leading tourist destination while generating long-term economic benefits for local residents.
During the meeting, the Joint Director Tourism Kashmir briefed the minister on ongoing and proposed tourism initiatives for the area.
Senior officers of the Tourism Department and other concerned departments were present during the meeting.
