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Key Points

The Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department organized special events to mark World Tourism Day across the region. Director Raja Yaqoob emphasized these initiatives aim to bring positivity following the tragic Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives. Alongside Pahalgam's bicycle rally and painting competition, musical festivals were held in both Pahalgam and Gulmarg. A Heritage Walk in Katra also promoted the traditional route to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, highlighting sustainable tourism practices.

Key Points: J-K Tourism Director Raja Yaqoob Lauds Pahalgam World Tourism Day

  • Tourism Department organized bicycle rally and painting competition in Pahalgam
  • Musical festivals held in both Pahalgam and Gulmarg locations
  • Heritage Walk organized in Katra to promote traditional pilgrimage route
  • Initiatives aim to revive tourism after tragic Pahalgam terror attack
  • Local residents welcome events hoping for economic boost
  • Programs focus on sustainable and heritage-based tourism development
2 min read

'Want to bring positivity': J-K Tourism Department Director lauds World Tourism Day programs in Pahalgam

J-K Tourism Director promotes positivity through bicycle rallies and painting competitions in Pahalgam following tragic terror attack, aiming to revive tourist influx.

"We want to bring positivity in the entire country, the entire region - Raja Yaqoob"

Srinagar, September 28

Raja Yaqoob, Director, Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department, lauded the bicycle rally and a painting competition in Pahalgam to mark World Tourism Day.

Speaking to ANI on Saturday, Yaqoob said that the department wanted to bring positivity in the region after the tragic Pahalgam terror attack, in which 26 people lost their lives.

He said, "On World Tourism Day, we organised various programs across Kashmir... In Pahalgam, we organised a bicycle rally and a painting competition among school children. Apart from this, a huge musical festival was also organised in Pahalgam. Similarly, a musical festival was also celebrated in Gulmarg."

"We want to bring positivity in the entire country, the entire region, so that after the unfortunate incident in Pahalgam, discussions start once again in Jammu and Kashmir and tourists come in large numbers," Raja Yaqoob said.

Meanwhile, a Heritage Walk was organised on Saturday in Katra to promote the traditional route leading to the revered Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine.

The walk was flagged off by SDM Katra and Piyush Dhotra in the presence of the officials, local residents, and pilgrims.

Participants retraced the historic path that has been followed by devotees for centuries, highlighting its spiritual, cultural, and heritage value.

Speaking on the occasion, the official stressed that the initiative would not only revive awareness about the old route but also encourage sustainable and heritage-based tourism in the region.

Local residents and traders welcomed the event, expressing hope that it would bring renewed attention and boost economic activity in the town.

World Tourism Day is celebrated globally on September 27 every year.

The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, celebrated World Tourism Day 2025 with a focus on "Tourism and Sustainable Transformation". The event brought together distinguished stakeholders from government, industry, academia, and civil society, reaffirming India's commitment toward fostering cultural exchange, driving economic growth, and advancing sustainable practices in tourism, a Ministry of Tourism release said.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Great to see the focus on sustainable tourism. The Heritage Walk in Katra is a fantastic idea - preserving our cultural routes while promoting tourism. More such initiatives needed across India! 🇮🇳
M
Michael C
Visited Kashmir last year and it's absolutely breathtaking. The local people are so warm and welcoming. These events will definitely help bring back tourists. Safety first though!
A
Ananya R
While I appreciate the efforts, I hope the government ensures these initiatives are sustained throughout the year, not just for World Tourism Day. Tourism needs consistent support and security measures.
S
Sarah B
The painting competition among school children is such a lovely touch! Engaging local communities in tourism promotion creates lasting impact. Well done J&K Tourism Department! 👏
V
Vikram M
Jannat-e-Kashmir is truly heaven on earth. These events will help change the narrative and show the world the real Kashmir - peaceful, beautiful, and welcoming. Insha'Allah tourism will flourish again!

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