Srinagar, July 8, 2025: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, addressing the National Tourism Secretaries’ Conference at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar, emphasized the unprecedented revival of Kashmir’s tourism sector over the past five years, aligning with India’s broader tourism growth. Joined by Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Sinha spoke to tourism secretaries from all state governments and Union Territories, convened to strategize on elevating India’s tourism sector to global standards.
LG Manoj Sinha highlighted the changing global perception of India, noting, “In recent years, the world’s perspective towards India has transformed, recognising it as a land of opportunity, culture, and natural beauty. Simultaneously, India’s tourism sector has witnessed a significant surge, positioning it as a key driver of economic growth.” He underscored Kashmir’s role in this transformation, citing massive strides in spiritual tourism, film tourism, and adventure tourism, which have replaced fear and terrorism with peace and development in the region.
The conference, a pivotal platform for shaping India’s tourism future, aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ambitious goal to double the tourism sector’s contribution to India’s economy from 5-6% to 10% by 2047. “To achieve this, we must develop destinations of global standards, blending cultural heritage with modern infrastructure,” Sinha said, echoing the Prime Minister’s vision. The meeting at SKICC aims to foster in-depth discussions on creating world-class tourism hubs, with J&K poised to lead by example.
LG Manoj Sinha detailed Kashmir’s tourism revival, driven by record pilgrim footfalls in the Amarnath Yatra and the growing appeal of spiritual sites like the Mata Sidh Lakshmi Temple in Anantnag and Daati Maa Dev Sthan in Jammu. Film tourism has also flourished, with Kashmir’s scenic landscapes attracting Bollywood and regional filmmakers, boosting local economies. Additionally, adventure tourism in destinations like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg has drawn global thrill-seekers, supported by government initiatives promoting eco-tourism and adventure sports.
Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat reinforced the need for collaborative efforts to counter challenges, such as the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, which briefly disrupted tourism. “The resilience of J&K’s people and the administration’s swift response have restored confidence. We are committed to ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for tourists,” he said, emphasizing the region’s cultural vibrancy, seen in festivals like the Amarnath Yatra, Muharram, and Harbah Utsav.
LG Manoj Sinha stressed that communal harmony and Kashmiriyat remain central to J&K’s identity. “Those attempting to disrupt peace at the behest of external forces will be isolated. Our shared celebrations reflect the true spirit of unity,” he said. The conference discussions will focus on leveraging J&K’s potential in cultural tourism, spiritual tourism, and eco-tourism to contribute to India’s 2047 tourism goals.
As the National Tourism Secretaries’ Conference unfolds, Sinha and Shekhawat urged stakeholders to innovate and collaborate, ensuring that J&K and India emerge as global tourism leaders. “The progress in Jammu and Kashmir over the past five years is a testament to the power of peace and prosperity. Together, we will build a future where tourism drives economic and cultural growth,” Sinha concluded.
