JAMMU : The Jammu and Kashmir Government on Thursday reiterated that tourism remains a key driver of the region’s economy, significantly boosting employment opportunities and contributing to the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP).
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who also oversees the tourism portfolio, informed the Assembly that Jammu and Kashmir welcomed 23,590,081 visitors in 2024, marking a steady rise in tourist arrivals.
Tourism’s Economic Impact
Responding to a query from MLA Ali Mohammad Sagar, the Chief Minister emphasized that the tourism sector provides direct and indirect livelihood opportunities to hotel staff, travel agents, taxi operators, handicraft sellers, and local youth. He assured that the government remains committed to expanding tourism to maximize its economic impact across various industries.
Diversifying Tourism in J&K
Highlighting efforts to broaden the tourism spectrum, Omar Abdullah stated that the administration is actively promoting adventure tourism, heritage tourism, pilgrimage tourism, golf tourism, eco-tourism, and cultural tourism. To enhance global visibility, the Tourism Department has launched extensive promotional campaigns at both national and international levels.
Additionally, the government is focusing on lesser-explored destinations such as Gurez, Keran, Bungus, Tosamaidan, Aharbal, Doodhpathri, Machail, Bhaderwah, Sukrala Mata, and Pancheri to attract a wider range of visitors.
Surge in Tourist Arrivals
Providing official data, the Chief Minister revealed that Jammu and Kashmir witnessed a significant growth in tourist footfall over the last two years. In 2023, the Union Territory recorded 21,180,011 visitors, which increased to 23,590,081 in 2024. He credited this rise to sustained government efforts, including infrastructure development and targeted marketing campaigns.
Infrastructure Development for Tourism
Speaking on infrastructure upgrades, Omar Abdullah informed the House that multiple projects have been undertaken to enhance tourism facilities.
- 2022-23: 984 projects initiated, 549 completed.
- 2023-24: 1,191 projects initiated, 516 completed.
- 2024-25 (ongoing): 1,914 projects launched so far, with 1,057 already completed.
These initiatives focus on improving road connectivity, upgrading tourist amenities, and enhancing accommodations in prominent destinations to ensure a better experience for travelers.
No Tourism Board Planned for Dal Lake Peripheries
Responding to another query from Ali Mohammad Sagar, the Chief Minister clarified that there is no proposal to establish a Tourism Development Board for areas surrounding Dal Lake, including Nishat Garden, Shalimar, Harwan, Chashmashahi, and Pari Mahal.
However, he reassured that the government remains committed to strengthening tourism infrastructure in these locations. Initiatives will continue to focus on improving accessibility, beautification, and visitor amenities at these culturally and historically significant sites.
Omar Abdullah reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to bolstering Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism sector through strategic infrastructure development and aggressive destination marketing, ensuring the region remains one of India’s top travel destinations.
