SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday chaired a high-level meeting with key tourism stakeholders, calling for a comprehensive and carefully crafted revival plan to rejuvenate the Union Territory’s tourism sector and restore confidence among both tourists and industry players.
“We should approach tourism revival in a structured and result-oriented manner, without undue haste,” Abdullah said, while proposing a detailed strategy to be developed in coordination with the Tourism Department after the upcoming Amarnath Yatra. He highlighted the importance of rebuilding the sector following the recent downturn that impacted the flow of tourists to the region.
The Chief Minister assured participants that he would take up the demand for financial support and interest relief directly with the Prime Minister and senior officials at the Centre. “I will advocate for a dedicated relief package, including loan deferments for at least two quarters to ease the financial stress on tourism stakeholders,” he said.
Expressing concern for small-scale entrepreneurs, Abdullah acknowledged the mounting pressure faced by hotel owners, houseboat operators, tourist taxi drivers, and others who have recently taken loans to support their businesses. He stressed the need to protect these vulnerable segments through government-backed interventions.
The CM also suggested holding shopping festivals modelled on Dubai, restarting cultural performances and laser fountain shows, and engaging artists to enrich the tourist experience. Additionally, he said he would personally participate in joint promotional campaigns once the security situation stabilises.
Tourism stakeholders, including J&K Hoteliers Club Chairman Mushtaq Ahmad Chaya, urged the government to organise FAM (Familiarisation) tours, encourage corporate tourism, hold official conferences in the Valley, and press for airfare reductions to make travel more affordable.
The meeting was attended by senior government officials including Advisor to the CM Nasir Aslam Wani, Additional Chief Secretary Dheeraj Gupta, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, IGP Kashmir VK Birdi, Commissioner Secretary Tourism Yasha Mudgal, and Director Tourism Kashmir Raja Yaqoob.
