Jammu allocated Rs 118 cr, Kashmir Rs 187 cr in last two years

Govt committed to boost tourism sector: CM

Vikas Sharma

JAMMU, Apr 7: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today reiterated the Government’s strong commitment to boosting the tourism sector across both Jammu and Kashmir regions of the Union Territory (UT).
Addressing a query raised by BJP Legislator Chander Prakash Ganga regarding the funds allocated for tourism development, Abdullah emphasized that substantial investments have been made in the sector over the last two years.
“In the past two years, the Government has allocated Rs 118 crore for Jammu division and Rs 187 crore for Kashmir division,” stated the Chief Minister.
He explained that these funds were part of the broader effort to enhance tourism-related infrastructure and facilities across various destinations in the UT.
Detailing the fund allocation for the two divisions, Omar Abdullah said, “In 2022-23, Rs 56.85 crore were allocated to Jammu division and Rs 61.05 crore in 2023-24. Similarly, Rs 92.10 crore were allocated to Kashmir division in 2022-23, with Rs 95.27 crore allocated in 2023-24.”
The Chief Minister further highlighted the Government’s efforts to develop the religious tourism circuits in the Jammu region, specifically for Purmandal, Utterbehni, Surinsar and Mansar.
“For the promotion of these religious sites, we have initiated major projects under the State Capex Budget,” Abdullah said.
“These include the comprehensive development of Mansar (Phase-1), Utterbehni, Purmandal, and Surinsar, with an investment totaling Rs 2958.43 lakh. In the 2024-25 fiscal year, Rs 1607.18 lakh has been allocated for these projects, with an additional Rs 117.02 lakh set aside to upgrade and repair existing tourism circuits,” he added.
He also revealed that the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India (GoI), has agreed in principle to fund the development of the Utterbehni and Purmandal circuits under the PRASAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive) scheme, with a concept plan worth Rs 35.77 crore already submitted for approval.
“Our belief in the immense tourism potential of the region is unwavering,” Abdullah remarked.
“Initiatives like the Border Festival and Yoga Festival have started attracting tourists, with a visible increase in tourism activities. The local population is beginning to reap the benefits of tourism growth,” he added.
In response to another query from National Conference Legislator Saif-u-Din Bhat about the status of the Master Plan for Doodpathri and Tosamaidan, the Chief Minister stated that the revision and formulation of the Master Plans for these areas are under consideration.
He also noted the construction of food courts and kiosks at Doodhpathri for the convenience of tourists. While the Government has not yet constructed Yatri Niwas (pilgrimage accommodation) at Doodhpathri, Raithan, Raiyar and Tosamaidan, the Chief Minister pointed out that the Development Authority has set up some accommodation facilities at these locations.
“These areas are endowed with breathtaking landscapes, lush meadows and cultural significance, making them attractive for nature tourism, adventure tourism and cross-border heritage tourism,” Abdullah explained.
He also stressed the importance of improving tourism infrastructure to fully unlock the potential of Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism industry.
Additionally, he proposed the creation of religious tourism circuits to enhance connectivity between various pilgrimage sites across the region.
As the Government continues to focus on improving infrastructure and promoting tourism, Abdullah’s remarks underscored a clear vision for making Jammu and Kashmir a leading tourist destination both domestically and internationally.

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