SRINAGAR: The CII Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Summit 2024, organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) JK Council, concluded Wednesday at Hotel Golden Tulip, Gupkar, Srinagar.
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The summit provided a platform for policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders to discuss strategies for fostering sustainable and responsible tourism in Jammu and Kashmir.
In his keynote address, Nasir Aslam Wani, Advisor to the Chief Minister and chief guest of the event, highlighted the importance of redefining Jammu and Kashmir as a sustainable tourism destination. He said, “We must act responsibly and focus on sustainable projects as we prepare for increased tourist arrivals. The government will ensure proactive measures to achieve this vision.”
Satish Sharma, Minister for FSC & CA, Transport, Science & Technology, IT, Youth Services & Sports, and Training and Development, and Farooq Ahmad Shah, MLA for Gulmarg, participated as Guests of Honour. Irfan Ali Shah, Conservator of Forests (Eco-Tourism), shared insights on eco-tourism initiatives.
Satish Sharma discussed the transformative impact of the upcoming train inauguration in January, which is expected to enhance tourism in Kashmir. He called for increased subsidies and tax benefits for communities dependent on tourism and proposed policy reforms to improve business conditions for the hospitality sector.
Farooq Ahmad Shah stressed the need to balance tourism growth with cultural preservation. He said, “Sustainable tourism is essential for regions like ours. Protecting artisans, crafts, and regulating home-stay policies are key to ensuring equitable growth.”
Irfan Ali Shah underscored the potential of Ayush-based tourism, inspired by global examples like Sri Lanka’s tea tourism. He advocated for infrastructure development to showcase Jammu and Kashmir’s unique medicinal flora to health-conscious travellers.
Syed Junaid Altaf, Chairman of CII J&K and Executive Director of FIL Industries, outlined the challenges and opportunities in the tourism sector. He emphasised the importance of balancing growth with environmental conservation and promoting inclusive opportunities for women, youth, and local communities.
The summit included speakers such as Rakesh Mathur, Honorary President of the Responsible Tourism Society of India, who advocated for educating children about responsible tourism and enforcing regulations. Abhijeet Patil, Chairman of Raja Rani Travels, discussed urban beautification and sustainable growth. Fayaz Ahmad Dar, founder of SAGG Ecological Village, and Madhusudhan Rapole, CEO of Oorja Energy Engineering Services, focused on eco-tourism development.
Sidhant Choudhary, Convener of the CII J&K Tourism Panel, and Hussain Khan, Co-Convener, also shared their perspectives.
The summit concluded with a call for stakeholders to collaborate in building a sustainable and inclusive tourism industry in Jammu and Kashmir.
