Hello Mumbai City Desk:

Mumbai, Jan 16 : Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, on Thursday addressed members of the travel media at a press conference in Mumbai as part of the Chief Minister’s “Maharashtra and Gujarat Travel Fraternity Outreach Programme.” According to RNA, The programme was aimed at reinforcing confidence in Jammu & Kashmir’s tourism sector and strengthening engagement with key stakeholders of the travel industry.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by Advisor to the Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Zadibal, Tanvir Sadiq, and Farooq Ahmad Shah, MLA Gulmarg.

During his interaction with the media, the Chief Minister emphasized that tourism in Jammu & Kashmir goes far beyond being a destination-centric activity, as it is a vital source of livelihood for thousands of families whose lives are intrinsically linked to the tourism industry. He stated that the Government is actively exploring and strengthening tourism avenues that are naturally available to the region.

Describing tourism as a sensitive and dynamic sector, Omar acknowledged that the industry suffered a grinding halt following the unfortunate Pahalgam attack. However, he assured that sustained and focused efforts are being made by the Government to ensure revival, growth, and long-term resilience of tourism in the Union Territory.

The Chief Minister also highlighted initiatives to promote Film Tourism, MICE Tourism, Border Tourism, and Pilgrim Tourism, noting that diversification would play a crucial role in strengthening the tourism economy of Jammu & Kashmir.

Speaking on the occasion, Farooq Ahmad Shah, MLA Gulmarg, reaffirmed his support to the vision and initiatives of the Chief Minister and stated that destinations such as Gulmarg and other 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.