GUREZ: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today reaffirmed his government’s commitment to the development and upliftment of Gurez and its people.
Speaking at the valedictory function of the two-day National Tribal Festival Gurez-2025 held at the picturesque border village of Chorwan in Gurez, the Chief Minister assured residents that Gurez remains high on his government’s priority list.
He lauded the peace-loving nature of the people of Gurez, acknowledging their unwavering commitment to peace even in challenging times. “Gurez has always stood as a symbol of resilience and harmony. My government recognises this spirit and is determined to ensure that the region progresses in all spheres,” he said.
Emphasising the need for improved connectivity, the Chief Minister assured the people that efforts are underway to provide mobile network coverage to keep Gurez connected with the rest of the country.
Highlighting the tourism potential of Gurez valley, the Chief Minister urged the residents to work together to keep Gurez clean and pollution-free. “Gurez is blessed with immense natural beauty, and it is our collective responsibility to preserve it for future generations. While we want development and progress for the region, it must be balanced with safeguarding its heritage, culture and traditions,” he said.
The Chief Minister noted that the expansion of tourism will create employment opportunities, especially for the youth of Gurez.
Earlier, the Chief Minister toured various stalls showcasing local produce, herbs, traditional foods, and handicrafts. Tribal dance performances by cultural troupes from Jammu & Kashmir, Assam, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat added colour and diversity to the celebrations.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister also distributed appreciation certificates to women-led Self Help Groups for their entrepreneurial efforts.
Later, he also inaugurated and witnessed a polo match and flagged off a trekking group from Gurez, promoting the region’s potential for adventure tourism. Additionally, he planted saplings at the Tourist Reception Centre in Gurez as part of a green initiative.
Earlier in the morning, the Chief Minister held a grievance redressal camp at Wampora, Dawar, where residents from various areas, including Chorwan, Kanzalwan, Tulail, Markote, and Bagtore, raised issues concerning road and mobile connectivity, upgradation of educational institutions, banking facilities, ATM services, community bunkers, and employment opportunities. The Chief Minister patiently listened to all grievances and assured timely redressal.
He said that since the time of Sher-e-Kashmir, has remained committed to delivering justice to the people of Gurez. “We understand the hardships faced by the people of this region. Our government has empathy and commitment to address these concerns,” he remarked.
Referring to the tribal festival, Abdullah said such events promote cultural exchanges.
“I hope more people will like to visit Gurez after this festival. The people got an opportunity, people from Gujarat a Tamil Nadu came here, and they also got an opportunity for the first time to see the culture of a different area. This is the benefit of such festivals, we get to know about different cultures and cuisines that a big country like India has to offer,” he added.
To a question about promoting border tourism, Abdullah said that when the borders remain calm, the government will itself push for border tourism.
We want tourism to increase in areas like Gurez, Tangdhar Keran and Machil. Similarly, border tourism will be promoted in Jammu as well. This is a way to reduce unemployment in these areas and improve the economy of the people, the chief minister said.
Tribal groups from different regions of the country showcased their vibrant cultures at the festival.
Speaking on the occasion, the chief minister said, “Our tribal communities are the living soul of India’s cultural diversity. Festivals like these strengthen the bonds of unity and mutual respect across regions.”
Earlier, the chief minister flagged off rafting in the Kishanganga river in the Gurez valley.
He said with nature as its playground, Gurez is set to become a premier destination for adventure seekers.
Abdullah also held a public interaction at the Dawar area of Gurez, where he listened to the concerns put forth by residents and assured their redressal.
