Omar Abdullah to Take Up Tourist Site Reopening With Amit Shah
CM stresses need to simplify rigid registration rules, says tourism is linked to every region of Jammu and Kashmir.
Jammu, Feb 5: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday underscored the importance of tourism to Jammu and Kashmir’s economy, stating that nearly every region of the Union Territory is connected to the sector either directly or indirectly. He emphasised that modernising outdated systems is crucial to unlocking the industry’s full potential.
Replying to queries from legislators in the Assembly, the Chief Minister noted that while certain districts attract more visitors than others, tourism continues to be a unifying economic pillar across the region.
Addressing concerns about regulatory hurdles, Abdullah acknowledged that the current registration framework is excessively rigid and overdue for reform. He expressed regret that the rules, unchanged since 1978, were never reassessed. Admitting collective responsibility, he remarked that previous administrations including those he was part of failed to prioritise the issue, but assured the House that corrective steps are now in motion.
He clarified that merely placing the process under the Public Services Act would not suffice, stressing that meaningful easing of procedures is necessary to encourage growth and participation in the sector.
Turning to access restrictions, the Chief Minister said authorities must now consider reopening locations in the Kashmir Valley that had been shut to visitors. He revealed that discussions with the Centre are ongoing and assured members that he would personally raise the matter with Union Home Minister Amit Shah during his upcoming visit to Jammu and Kashmir.
