Held forward-looking discussion with Jammu & Kashmir CM Omar Abdullah on tourism development: Gajendra Singh Shekhawat

Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat with Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah during a meeting, on June 19, 2025. (Image released by X/@gssjodhpur) | Photo Credit: PTI

Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on Thursday (June 19, 2025) said he held a positive and forward-looking discussion with Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on the development of the tourism sector in the State. Mr. Shekhawat arrived in Srinagar on Wednesday morning (June 18, 2025) as part of his two-day visit.

"During my visit to Jammu & Kashmir, I was graciously invited for a dinner interaction by Hon'ble Chief Minister Shri Omar Abdullah Ji," he said on X.

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"In a warm and cordial atmosphere, we held a positive and forward-looking discussion on the development of the tourism sector in Jammu & Kashmir. Emphasis was laid on enhancing infrastructure, promoting heritage sites, and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities through tourism," he said in his post.

“Such engagements reflect “our collective commitment” to transform Jammu and Kashmir into a global tourism destination that celebrates its culture, nature, and people,” Mr. Shekhawat said.

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The tourism sector in the UT has been badly hit after the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that left 26 people dead. Mr. Abdullah lately has been making efforts to visit different areas of Kashmir, and holding key meetings at such sites, aiming to boost the confidence of tourists to again travel to Jammu and Kashmir.

During the visit, Mr. Shekhawat offered prayers at the shrine of Mata Kheer Bhawani. He is also set to visit the ancient Martand Surya Temple, besides Pahalgam and Betaab Valley in Anantnag district of Jammu & Kashmir.

Published - June 19, 2025 12:23 pm IST