Kashmir, September 13, 2025 – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday emphasised his government’s efforts to strengthen ties with southern states, particularly Tamil Nadu, to boost tourism and film production in the Valley. Speaking to media on the sidelines of an event organized by The Good Deeds Club here, he lamented the low footfall from the South and urged more visitors from Chennai and beyond to discover the region’s reopened destinations.”We do not get enough visitors from Chennai and the rest of Tamil Nadu to Jammu and Kashmir,” Abdullah said, highlighting the untapped potential of southern tourism. He assured that most tourist spots have resumed operations post-security audits, with comprehensive precautions in place to ensure safe holidays and film shoots in the coming months. The CM expressed optimism for a surge in holiday travel and cinematic collaborations, noting the Valley’s stunning landscapes as ideal backdrops.Abdullah also stressed the role of big-budget South Indian cinema in showcasing J&K’s natural allure, a strategy to draw non-traditional tourists from the South who have historically favored other destinations.
“Engaging more with South Indian filmmakers would not only promote our scenic beauty on screen but also inspire travel among their vast audiences,” he added, drawing parallels to Bollywood’s past influence in popularizing Kashmir as a honeymoon haven. This outreach aligns with broader initiatives to revive the tourism sector, which faced setbacks from recent security incidents but is now bouncing back with enhanced infrastructure and community-focused programs.The visit underscores J&K’s proactive diplomacy with southern states, aiming to diversify visitor bases and economic opportunities through cultural and adventure tourism.
