The initiative or the proposal of adding new tourist destinations in Jammu and Kashmir is not less than a festival for the people as the sector is one of the main sources of livelihood for the locals here.
A day before, the administration has announced that they are planning to develop new nine tourist destinations that will boost the jobs and will enhance the flow of visitors in Jammu and Kashmir.
The decision is not just about the benefit of expanding the infrastructure of tourism but it will also act as a roadmap that will further help in growth of the sector.
The administration is making it clear that development should be guided by sound environmental principles and community involvement as two equally important factors.
This plan is making the investment in tourism a different kind of investment. It positions tourism within the context of environmentally responsible infrastructure, waste management, renewable energy resources, and protection of sensitive and fragile ecosystems.
Visitors can immerse themselves in a complete range of diverse landscapes, including rugged mountains and green valleys without leaving a lasting footprint.
Sustainability has social and economic components in addition to its ecological component. The engagement of local residents throughout the planning and implementation process, and their ability to be major players when enjoying the benefits of the tourism development, transforms tourism from a source of profit into an engine of economic empowerment.
By utilizing this approach for tourism, new tourism development opportunities will become available in hospitality services, guiding services, craft related tourism, and agriculture-related tourism, with no overlap or centrally concentrated economic gain.
Additionally, all tourism developments will reflect the culture, values, and aspirations of the local communities.
The designation of these nine additional tourism destinations will provide an economically strategic redistribution of tourism revenue away from traditional tourism gateways and into the communities of Jammu and Kashmir.
With increased opportunities for visitors to experience untouched areas of Jammu and Kashmir, the tourism economy will be more robust, and the narratives associated with the unique places may be better appreciated.
