KL Report
SRINAGAR
Describing J&K a symbol of unity in diversity, the Minister for Tourism GA Mir Friday said that despite having varied cultures, religion and languages all the three regions of the State -Kashmir, Jammu and Ladakh- is a single entity.
Speaking at the inaugural function of the week long Ladakh Festival in Leh today, the Minister said that Jammu and Kashmir is famous all over the world for its scenic splendor and hospitality adding that all out efforts are being made to market vast tourism potential of the State in the world of Tourism.
Thousands of spectators and a large number of foreign as well as domestic tourists were present on the occasion.
As per a statement Minister for Urban Development, Nawang Rigzin Jora, CEC, LAHDC, Rigzin Spalbar, Executive Councilor Tourism, Mohammad Shafi Lassu, Executive Councilor Animal Husbandry Gyurmet Dorje, former Union Minister P Namgyal, DC, Leh Simrandeep Singh, SP, Leh Vivek Gupta, heads of political, religious and social organization of district were also present on the occasion.
Complimenting people of Ladakh, especially the Hill Development Council for organizing the festival-presenting the true color of the rich cultural heritage of Ladakh region- the Minister said that Ladakh’s beauty and charm is unique and incomparable. Mir urged upon the people to safeguard the matchless heritage of Ladakh for the posterity.
Giving details about upcoming tourism infrastructure in Leh, the Tourism Minister said that facilities for Conventions, Golfing, Spiritual Interpretation and adventure tourism is being developed in a big way to develop Ladakh as a major international tourist destination. Mir credited Jora for his remarkable efforts in promotion of tourism in the State during his tenure as Tourism Minister and said that he is the man who laid a well thought out master plan for development of Leh as a perfect tourism destination adding that the Ladakh region is fast emerging as a must visit place on the world tourism map.
He asked the people of Ladakh to show good hospitality so that more tourists visit this place which will give impetus to socio-economic activities in the region.
Earlier LAHDC Chairman Rigzin Spalbar in his welcome address demanded to increase the frequency of Air flights to Leh to facilitate more tourists to visit Ladakh region. He also demanded reduction in ATS charges from 21% to 4 %.
On the occasion, a scintillating cultural programme including Yak & Lion dance, Thali dance by artist from Kukshow, Tibetan Achi Lhamo, Marriage Dance and Mentok Ltatmo dance depicting rich and unique culture and traditions of Ladakh mesmerized the tourists and audience.
