BY DEBAJYOTI CHAKRABORTY
SRINAGAR | 19 JUNE 2025
Union tourism minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat had arrived in Srinagar yesterday for a two day tour in J&K. Last night CM Omar Abdullah hosted dinner in honour of him. Today he visited the site at Pahalgam where the terror attack took place and met with the brave heart and applauded him. He has also visited temples and tried to boost the confidence amongst the tourists and the stakeholders of the travel trade community.
“A heavy heart but one filled with hope in Pahalgam this noon. Visited the site of the dastardly terror attack and interacted with locals and tourists who have brought the region back to its lively spirit and everyday rhythm. The strength of the people, their unwavering hospitality, and the quiet resolve to not let fear define them. This is the real soul of Kashmir,” Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said in his official X handle.
“A peaceful day in Pahalgam, buzzing with tourists and calm barely a month after #OperationSindoor. It speaks volumes of the resilience of the people and the vision and commitment of PM Narendra Modi for the development of the region. Tourism-driven growth, grassroots development, and renewed confidence – this is Naya Kashmir, the shining crown of New India,”he added.
On 22 April 2025, 26 tourists were killed by terrorists in Pahalgam, which had rocked the nation and ultimately led to Operation Sindoor against Pakistan, after which tourism completely stopped in the valley but recently has resumed. Skal International, TAAI, TAFI, IATO, ABTO and other travel trade organizations of the nation have lended their complete support for reopening tourism in J&K.
“Had a warm lunch at Hotel Heevan in Pahalgam this afternoon. Gave me great joy to interact with tourists soaking in the valley’s beauty, and to spend time with local hoteliers and hospitality entrepreneurs understanding both their challenges and opportunities. The quiet determination of the local hospitality business community to keep Kashmir welcoming and vibrant is truly heartening,”said Mr. Shekhawat.
“Was deeply moved to meet Sajjad Ahmad Bhatt, the courageous young man who carried an injured young tourist on his back for several kilometres after the Pahalgam terror attack. In a moment of fear and chaos, he chose courage and humanity above all. His selfless act is the real reflection of the spirit of Kashmir – brave, compassionate, and unwavering,” he said.
“An enchanted morning at the Avantipora temple complex in Kashmir today. These stones that are remains of the mighty temples once built by King Avantivarman in what was once his capital tell tales of the cultural glory of that era. With the picturesque Himalayan mountains for a backdrop, these are sites that take one on a journey through time. Reviewed the tourist facilities and upkeep efforts being undertaken along with officials of the ASI and district administration,” tourism minister said.
“If it looks this awe-inspiring in its weathered form, one can imagine its grandeur of yore given the temple’s scale, sculptural richness, and strategic location atop a plateau overlooking the valley.”
“Visited the majestic Martand Temple, which is a profound reflection of the glory of Kashmir’s civilisational past. Built by the legendary King Lalitaditya, this grand temple dedicated to Surya was one of the earliest and most magnificent sun temples in India.”
“During my visit to Jammu & Kashmir, I was graciously invited for a dinner interaction by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah . In a warm and cordial atmosphere, we held a positive and forward-looking discussion on the development of the tourism sector in J&K. Emphasis was laid on enhancing infrastructure, promoting heritage sites, and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities through tourism. Such engagements reflect our collective commitment to transform Jammu & Kashmir into a global tourism destination that celebrates its culture, nature, and people,” Mr. Gajendra Singh Shekawat stated.
Recently IATO has organized a three day campaign – ‘ Rubaroo Jammu and Kashmir’, and also met with CM of J&K, Omar Abdullah. Mr. Ravi Gosain, newly elected President of Indian association of Tour Operators (IATO) after the meeting said that the place is safe as ever and tourists will definitely visit the Switzerland of the East and normalcy will be restored back very shortly. He had led a 30 member strong team of IATO. Various issues on revival of tourism in J&K were discussed in the meeting.
Dr. Kaulesh Kumar, Secretary General of Association of Buddhist Tour Operators (ABTO) said that it is very appreciative that tourism is back in Kashmir. “ We are really happy that tourism has resumed in J&K and safe all the travel and trade fraternity are ready to provide full support in reviving trade and tourism in Jammu and Kashmir. The two day visit ( 18 and 19 June) of union tourism minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat will further boost the confidence of the tourists,”he concluded.
Advertisement:
Add Comment