Tourism in Kashmir Suffers After Pahalgam Attack The recent terror attack in Pahalgam has severely impacted tourism in Kashmir, causing a significant decline in visitor numbers.
In response, leading travel agents from across India are visiting the Valley to support the revival of the tourism sector.
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Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) Launches 'Rally for the Valley' Initiative
Over 70 members of the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI), the country’s largest travel trade association with more than 2,500 members, arrived in Kashmir for a three-day visit from June 10 to 12. The initiative, titled Rally for the Valley, aims to rebuild confidence in Kashmir as a safe and attractive tourist destination.
Interactions with Local Tourism Stakeholders
During their visit, TAAI delegates engaged with local tourism stakeholders, including travel agents, hoteliers, houseboat owners, entrepreneurs, and government officials. Discussions focused on strategies to restore tourist footfall and improve the overall visitor experience in Kashmir.
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Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Addresses Tourism Concerns
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah attended an event organized by TAAI at a Srinagar hotel, where he emphasized the government’s efforts to enhance tourism infrastructure and visitor satisfaction. He stated that the administration is working to ensure tourists have memorable experiences that encourage them to return and recommend Kashmir to others.
Government’s Commitment to Tourism Revival
Omar Abdullah acknowledged the challenges faced by the tourism sector in recent months and assured that the government is utilizing this period to upgrade facilities and services. He praised TAAI for its commitment to Jammu & Kashmir, highlighting that the delegation’s visit sends a strong message of solidarity.
Read Also: India Prepares for War with Pakistan: Impact on Travel and Tourism Industry
Tour Operators Federation of India (TAFI) to Follow with 'Rubaroo with Jammu and Kashmir' Campaign
Following TAAI’s efforts, the Tour Operators Federation of India (TAFI) is set to visit Kashmir from June 15 to 17. Their campaign, Rubaroo with Jammu and Kashmir, aims to further promote tourism in the region by showcasing its safety and attractions.
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Positive Message to Potential Tourists
Travel Agents Association of Kashmir (TAAK) Secretary General Sajad Kralyari expressed optimism about the visits, stating that they would help dispel fears about safety in Kashmir. He emphasized that firsthand assessments by national travel agents would reassure potential tourists and encourage them to plan trips to the Valley.
Boosting Confidence Among Travelers
Kralyari noted that the endorsements from reputed travel associations like TAAI and TAFI would play a crucial role in rebuilding tourist confidence. Their firsthand experiences and positive feedback would influence travelers across India to reconsider Kashmir as a preferred destination.
Revival of Kashmir’s Tourism Industry
The combined efforts of national and local travel associations are expected to significantly contribute to the revival of Kashmir’s tourism sector. With improved infrastructure and strong promotional campaigns, stakeholders believe that Kashmir will soon regain its status as a top travel destination in India.
Future Visits by Business Delegations
More tour operators and business groups are likely to visit Kashmir in the coming weeks to reinforce the message that the region is safe and welcoming for tourists. These initiatives aim to restore normalcy and ensure long-term growth in the tourism industry.
Conclusion: A Collaborative Effort for Tourism Recovery
The proactive steps taken by travel associations, along with government support, highlight a collective commitment to reviving Kashmir’s tourism. By addressing safety concerns and enhancing visitor experiences, stakeholders are confident that the Valley will once again attract travelers from across the country and beyond.
