Farooq Abdullah urges tourists to visit Kashmir, says Valley is safe, beautiful and more affordable than ever

SRINAGAR, May 27:  In a heartfelt appeal to the people of India, National Conference president and former Chief Minister Dr. Farooq Abdullah on Monday urged tourists from across the country to shed their apprehensions and visit Kashmir, which he described as safe, serene, and more affordable than ever. Speaking during an exclusive interview with Daily Excelsior on the sidelines of a special Cabinet meeting held in the scenic town of Pahalgam, Dr. Abdullah emphasized that the recent fear triggered by an isolated attack has now dissipated, and that normalcy has returned.

“Tourists should come without any hesitation. Kashmiris are eager to welcome them with open arms, as they always have,” said Abdullah, highlighting the resilience and hospitality of the local population. He urged visitors to immerse themselves in the unmatched beauty of the Valley, breathe the pure mountain air, and listen to the calming sounds of the Liddar River and lush pine forests. “Where else can you find such natural splendour?” he asked, gesturing toward the snow-clad mountains that cradle Pahalgam.

The NC leader also took time to play a friendly game of golf at the Pahalgam Golf Course, underscoring the Valley’s readiness to host leisure and adventure tourists alike. “The fear psychosis must end. Kashmir is not only peaceful but also economically accessible right now,” he added. He praised the tourism stakeholders—hoteliers, airlines, and transport providers—for voluntarily reducing rates to encourage domestic tourism. “Airfares are cheaper, hotel tariffs have been lowered, and the hospitality sector is making every effort to extend warmth and comfort to guests,” Abdullah said.

Referring to the Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in Pahalgam, Dr. Farooq Abdullah welcomed the government’s outreach to the local tourism community. Interactions with hoteliers, taxi drivers, poneywalas, and police officials sent a clear and powerful message: that the administration is fully engaged and committed to rebuilding confidence in the tourism sector. “This sends a strong signal. The government is with them, listening to their concerns. This will empower those who rely on tourism for their livelihood,” he stated.

Speaking ahead of the Amarnath Yatra, which sees thousands of pilgrims traveling to the holy cave shrine each year, Dr. Abdullah appealed to devotees not to be deterred by fear or rumors. “Bhole Nath is waiting. Come with faith, not fear. Life and death lie in God’s hands. Show the world we stand together as one nation,” he said, urging pilgrims to visit with confidence and pride.

On the political front, Abdullah dismissed speculation of internal discord within the National Conference, particularly concerning MP Agha Ruhullah. He reaffirmed the party’s unity and continued commitment to the restoration of Article 370. “We have never let go of 370. It is a constitutional right, not a gift. But before that, let statehood be restored. People are struggling just to feed themselves. We must address their basic needs first,” he asserted.

Expressing concern over the escalating cost of living, he pointed out how skyrocketing prices of food, fuel, and electricity have exacerbated poverty across Jammu and Kashmir. “People are unable to afford even the most basic necessities. We need to focus on their day-to-day struggles,” he added.

Defending his party against repeated attempts to weaken it, Dr. Abdullah said, “The National Conference remains the party of the people. Despite political challenges and pressures, our base remains intact. They tried hard to break us—what happened? Only two leaders left: Devender Rana and Surjeet Singh Slathia from Jammu. No one else. We remain strong, grounded, and trusted by the people.”

With his characteristic optimism and unwavering faith in Kashmir’s future, Farooq Abdullah’s message was clear: the Valley is open, secure, and waiting with open arms to embrace all who seek peace, beauty, and togetherness.