Srinagar, August 30: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday evening addressed the HDFC Bank Annual Function at SKICC Srinagar, where he lauded the bank’s growth, resilience, and long-term commitment to Jammu and Kashmir’s economic development.
Highlighting Kashmir’s tourism legacy, Omar Abdullah recalled the historic description of the Valley as “heaven on earth” inscribed centuries ago on the walls of the Red Fort. He noted that while many regions now rely on modern marketing slogans, Jammu and Kashmir has always been the original symbol of natural beauty and tourism promotion.
Urging visitors to explore beyond Srinagar, the Chief Minister said, “Our success will not be measured by bringing you here once, but by ensuring you return. Repeat visits are the true measure of our tourism efforts.” He emphasised the importance of sustainable tourism in Jammu and Kashmir, assuring that the experiences of tourists would inspire them to return with family and friends.
Speaking on the economic front, Omar Abdullah underlined that HDFC Bank has become a vital partner in the progress of J&K’s financial sector. With 124 branches and an extensive ATM network spread across both urban and remote areas, HDFC Bank has successfully expanded its services in deposits, lending, priority sector financing, and customer-driven initiatives, thereby deepening its engagement with the people of the Union Territory.
Expressing gratitude, the Chief Minister said that the choice of Jammu and Kashmir as the venue for HDFC Bank’s prestigious annual function reflects the institution’s confidence in the region’s growth potential. “HDFC Bank’s presence here today is not just a celebration of financial success, but a reaffirmation of faith in Jammu and Kashmir’s potential and its future,” he remarked.
The event was attended by Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, legislators Farooq Ahmad Shah and Tanvir Sadiq, alongside senior HDFC Bank managers, officials, and delegates from across the country.
