Protect livelihoods and economic activities: CII on Pahalgam terror attack

IANS April 23, 2025 229 views

A horrific terror attack in Pahalgam's Baisaran Valley claimed over two dozen tourist lives, shocking the nation. The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) responded strongly, emphasizing the need to protect economic activities and citizen safety. The Kashmir Valley observed a near-total shutdown, demonstrating solidarity with the victims and resilience against terrorism. The incident underscores the fragile security environment in the region, particularly during the crucial summer tourism season.

"Safety of citizens is of paramount importance" - Sanjiv Puri, CII President
New Delhi, April 23: The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) on Wednesday said it expresses its heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims of the heinous attack in Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir, urging the authorities to protect economic activities in the region.

Key Points

1

CII condemns senseless violence targeting innocent tourists in Pahalgam

2

Kashmir Valley observes shutdown in solidarity with victims

3

Tourism critical economic lifeline for J&K region

4

Industry calls for united response against terrorism

CII President Sanjiv Puri said in a statement that this senseless act of violence targeted on innocent people, mainly tourists, not only claimed precious lives but also threatened peace and prosperity in the region.

“Safety of citizens is of paramount importance, and terrorist attacks of this kind must be dealt with utmost severity. The nation is strong enough to deal with such crises and ensure that this does not disrupt livelihoods and economic activities,” said the apex industry chamber.

The Kashmir Valley witnessed a near-total shutdown in response to the attacks. Shops, commercial establishments, public transport, and educational institutions remained closed. The shutdown was called by traders, industrialists, political groups, and religious organisations, sending a strong message of unity and mourning.

The summer season has just begun, and this is the time when tourists start visiting the region. Tourism is also the biggest source of income for J&K, especially Kashmir.

According to Puri, “CII and the Indian Industry stand united with governments at both the Centre and state level, and all stakeholders to collectively push back these attempts that compromise the security and well-being of our nation”.

The attack, which took place in the scenic Baisaran Valley in Pahalgam, claimed the lives of over two dozen tourists, after terrorists emerged from forest cover and opened indiscriminate firing on unarmed civilians.

A major combing and search operation was underway in and around the Baisaran Valley to track down the terrorists responsible for the heinous assault.

Baisaran is a small meadow three to four km from the Pahalgam market, and tourists take horses to reach the place as there is no motorable road to it.

Reader Comments

P
Priya K.
This is so heartbreaking 💔 Tourism is the lifeline of Kashmir and attacks like these hurt ordinary people the most. My prayers with the victims' families. The authorities must ensure such incidents don't scare away tourists who bring much-needed income to locals.
R
Rahul S.
While I appreciate CII's statement, I wish they'd propose concrete economic support measures too. Maybe special insurance schemes for affected businesses or tourism promotion campaigns? Thoughts and prayers alone won't rebuild livelihoods.
A
Aisha M.
Visited Pahalgam last summer - the locals were so warm and welcoming. It's tragic how terrorism destroys everything. The shutdown shows Kashmiris reject this violence. We must stand with them, not avoid the region. That's what the terrorists want.
V
Vikram J.
Security needs to be stepped up in these remote tourist spots. No motorable road means slower response times. Maybe drones or regular patrols? Beautiful places shouldn't become danger zones.
S
Sunita R.
The unity shown by traders, industrialists and locals is powerful. Kashmir's economy has suffered enough - we can't let terrorists win. Planning my next vacation there to show solidarity ✊

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Your email won't be published


Disclaimer: Comments here reflect the author's views alone. Insulting or using offensive language against individuals, communities, religion, or the nation is illegal.

Tags:
Pahalgam Terror Attack Kashmir Tourism CII Sanjiv Puri Jammu and Kashmir Terrorism
You May Like!