SRINAGAR: Director Tourism Kashmir, Syed Qamar Sajad described the 17th Annual Convention of the Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) as a “key milestone for the revival and growth” of adventure tourism in Jammu and Kashmir.
Addressing the inaugural session at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC), the Director said events like this play a pivotal role in strengthening tourism infrastructure, promoting sustainability and boosting local economies.
“This three-day convention is not just a gathering; it is a platform that will catalyse adventure tourism in the Union Territory,” he said.
Sajad praised Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for his continuous support and dedication to tourism, calling him the “grand ambassador of JK tourism”.
He welcomed key dignitaries and highlighted their role in fostering collaboration between government and industry.
The Director said that Jammu and Kashmir’s adventure tourism potential spans trekking, skiing, paragliding, rafting and mountaineering and that structured initiatives, skill development and safety frameworks are essential for sustainable growth. “This convention signals renewed confidence and commitment to ensuring that tourism in JK thrives responsibly and inclusively,” he said.
Such initiatives, he said, are vital to creating employment opportunities, dispersing visitors to remote areas and ensuring the Union Territory’s adventure offerings remain globally competitive.(KNO)
