Mumbai: In an effort to reinforce confidence in Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism sector and strengthen engagement with key stakeholders, Omar Abdullah, the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, on Thursday addressed members of the travel media at a press conference in Mumbai as part of the Maharashtra and Gujarat Travel Fraternity Outreach Programme.
The outreach initiative aims to rebuild trust in the tourism ecosystem of Jammu and Kashmir and deepen collaboration with tour operators, travel media, and industry partners from Western India, a key source market for the Union Territory.
The Chief Minister was accompanied by Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq, and MLA Gulmarg Farooq Ahmad Shah.
Interacting with the media, Omar Abdullah underscored that tourism in Jammu and Kashmir is not merely destination-centric but a critical source of livelihood for thousands of families whose economic well-being is directly dependent on the sector. He said the government is actively working to explore, strengthen, and responsibly promote the region’s naturally endowed tourism potential.
Describing tourism as a sensitive and dynamic sector, the Chief Minister acknowledged that the industry had come to a grinding halt following the unfortunate Pahalgam attack. However, he assured that sustained and focused efforts are underway to ensure the revival, growth, and long-term resilience of tourism in the Union Territory.
Highlighting the government’s broader vision, Omar Abdullah said special emphasis is being laid on diversifying tourism through the promotion of Film Tourism, MICE Tourism, Border Tourism, and Pilgrim Tourism, noting that diversification is key to strengthening the tourism economy and reducing vulnerability to disruptions.
Speaking on the occasion, MLA Gulmarg Farooq Ahmad Shah reaffirmed his support for the Chief Minister’s vision and initiatives, stating that destinations such as Gulmarg and other major tourism hubs in Kashmir are fully prepared to welcome visitors with warm hospitality and world-class facilities. He described the outreach programme as a timely and impactful step towards rebuilding confidence and strengthening partnerships with the national travel fraternity.
The outreach programme is expected to pave the way for renewed collaboration between Jammu and Kashmir and leading travel stakeholders from Maharashtra and Gujarat, contributing to a sustained revival of tourism in the region.
