SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) General Secretary Haji Ali Mohammad Sagar on Tuesday said the Omar Abdullah-led government was committed to improving the economic conditions and livelihoods of artisans, craftsmen, traders and people associated with the tourism sector.
Sagar made the remarks while interacting with several public delegations, traders’ associations and representatives of tourism bodies at the party headquarters, Nawa-e-Subha, here. Hazratbal MLA Salman Ali Sagar was also present.
The delegations apprised Sagar of various issues concerning their respective areas and sectors. He assured them that every effort would be made to address their grievances and ensure the provision of basic amenities.
Sagar also contacted concerned authorities during the meetings and directed them to take immediate measures for resolving several issues raised by the delegations.
He said artisans, craftsmen, traders and tourism stakeholders had faced considerable difficulties over the past several years, particularly after 2019. He added that various decisions and policies had adversely affected traditional occupations and businesses, with many people dependent on handicrafts and traditional skills being forced to abandon their ancestral professions.
Sagar said the National Conference would continue working towards the revival of traditional sectors, generation of employment opportunities and promotion of economic activity in Jammu and Kashmir.
Meanwhile, representatives of the Khonakhun New Mamta Hoteliers Association also met Sagar and apprised him of issues related to the area.
Sagar said tourism and infrastructure development in Khonakhun and adjoining areas would receive a boost, adding that Rs 1.52 crore was being spent on various developmental works, including construction and improvement of footpaths, bridges, protection walls and other essential infrastructure.
He said the works would improve basic amenities and give the area a new look, while also helping increase tourist footfall. This, he said, would provide a boost to local tourism, businesses, trade and employment opportunities.
Representatives of the Hoteliers Association thanked Sagar for the initiatives being taken for the development of the area and promotion of tourism.
