Srinagar, June 19, 2025 – Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, during a two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir, joined Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for a dinner interaction on June 18, 2025, to discuss strategies for revitalising the region’s tourism sector. The meeting, held in a warm and cordial atmosphere, focused on enhancing infrastructure, promoting heritage sites, and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities, reflecting a shared commitment to transform Jammu and Kashmir into a global tourism destination.
Shekhawat, who arrived in Srinagar on Wednesday, shared details of the discussion on X, stating, “In a warm and cordial atmosphere, we held a positive and forward-looking discussion on the development of the tourism sector in J&K.” The talks come at a critical juncture, as the Union Territory’s tourism industry struggles to recover from the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, severely impacting visitor confidence.
The dinner interaction emphasised three key areas: upgrading tourism infrastructure, such as roads, accommodations, and visitor facilities; promoting heritage sites like the Martand Sun Temple and Kheer Bhawani shrine to highlight Kashmir’s cultural legacy; and fostering sustainable livelihoods through tourism-related activities like homestays, guided tours, and handicraft sales. Shekhawat’s visit included stops at these heritage sites, as well as Pahalgam and Betaab Valley, where he reviewed ongoing restoration and upkeep efforts with the Archaeological Survey of India and district officials.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has been actively working to restore tourist confidence, visiting key destinations and holding meetings to promote safety and hospitality. His efforts align with Shekhawat’s vision of showcasing Jammu and Kashmir’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
The discussions also addressed the upcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, scheduled from July 3 to August 9, 2025. Shekhawat assured robust security measures, telling PTI Videos, “The Amarnath Yatra is safe, the Government of India and the state government are committed, and you will not get even a scratch.” He urged pilgrims to preserve the valley’s environment, reinforcing the push for sustainable tourism.
Despite the challenges posed by the Pahalgam attack, Shekhawat’s visit and dialogue with Abdullah signal a renewed focus on positioning Jammu and Kashmir as a safe and vibrant destination. Local stakeholders, including tour operators and ponywallahs, expressed optimism, noting that such high-level engagements boost economic prospects and community resilience.
