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JAMMU: In the wake of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam and ongoing security operations like Operation Sindoor, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Executive Member Raman Suri has called for immediate and robust measures to revive tourism and pilgrimage in the Jammu division, emphasizing its critical role as the gateway to the Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory (UT). Suri expressed deep concern over the declining tourist footfall in Jammu, which he noted has been equally affected by the security situation as the Kashmir Valley, yet receives inadequate attention from the administration.
“The Jammu division, with its serene landscapes, pleasant summer climate, and sacred pilgrimage sites, is the gateway to Jammu and Kashmir. However, the ripple effects of the Pahalgam terror attack and security operations have severely impacted tourism and pilgrimage in Jammu as well,” said Suri. “While the UT government is actively addressing tourism in Kashmir, Jammu seems to be overlooked. This selective approach must end, and the administration, led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who oversees the tourism department, must take concrete steps to restore confidence and promote Jammu as a vibrant tourist destination.”
Raman Suri highlighted the significant decline in pilgrim visits to revered sites like Mata Vaishno Devi, with upcoming pilgrimages such as the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra and Machail Mata Yatra also at risk due to waning confidence among tourists and pilgrims. “Pilgrimage tourism is the backbone of Jammu’s economy, and any decline directly affects livelihoods. The Chief Minister must prioritize restoring the confidence of pilgrims and tourists by ensuring safety and promoting Jammu’s unique offerings,” he urged.
Drawing attention to the pleasant summer weather in Jammu, Suri called for proactive measures to market the region’s tourist spots, including Patnitop, Sanasar, Bhaderwah, and Kishtwar, which offer respite from the heat and unparalleled natural beauty. “Jammu’s tourism potential is immense, yet nothing significant seems to be happening at the administrative level to capitalize on it. The government must launch targeted campaigns to attract tourists to these destinations, ensuring they feel safe and welcomed,” he added.
Reflecting on the broader tourism scenario, Suri acknowledged the severe impact of the Pahalgam terror attack on Kashmir’s tourism sector, which has historically faced disruptions due to violent protests and curfews in 2008, 2010, and 2016. “Kashmir’s economy, heavily reliant on tourism, has repeatedly suffered setbacks, and the current situation is no different. The industry is now looking to the government for a comprehensive revival package,” he noted. However, he stressed that Jammu’s tourism sector, equally affected, deserves similar attention and support. “The government cannot afford to be selective. Both divisions must be prioritized to ensure the overall economic stability of the Union Territory,” Suri emphasized.
Raman Suri urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to adopt a balanced approach, advocating for equal focus on Jammu and Kashmir to rebuild trust among tourists and pilgrims. He called for enhanced security measures, infrastructure development, and promotional campaigns to showcase Jammu’s tourism potential. “The people of Jammu and those associated with the tourism sector are waiting for decisive action. The Chief Minister must lead with vision and ensure that Jammu is not sidelined in the Union Territory’s tourism narrative,” he asserted.
JAMMU: In observance of World No Tobacco Day, the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu, in collaboration with the Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, and under the aegis of the Directorate of Health Services, Jammu, organized an impactful awareness session at the Augustya Classroom, Jagti Campus. This initiative, held under the visionary leadership of Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, reflects the Institute’s enduring commitment to public health, civic consciousness, and meaningful community engagement.
The session aimed to sensitize the academic community—students, faculty, and administrative staff—about the far-reaching health hazards of tobacco use, while reinforcing the ideals of a tobacco-free and wellness-oriented lifestyle. It forms an integral part of IIM Jammu’s broader mission to foster socially responsible citizenship and contribute to national development through holistic education and health advocacy.
The event was graced by Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu who delivered a compelling address underscoring the moral and societal imperatives of tobacco cessation. He urged young minds to make informed and health-conscious decisions, cautioning against the subtle yet pervasive influences of social and media messaging. Leading a collective pledge against tobacco, Prof. Sahay emphasized that cultivating a tobacco-free campus is not merely a matter of policy enforcement, but a shared responsibility rooted in awareness, empathy, and ethical action. Reaffirming IIM Jammu’s unwavering stance on health and wellness, he reiterated the Institute’s proactive role in aligning institutional values with broader public health goals.
The session was chaired by Dr. Paras Khanna, Surgical Oncologist, AIIMS Jammu, who presented a detailed and compelling analysis of the epidemiology and severe health consequences of tobacco consumption. He highlighted the urgent need for greater public awareness, preventive health education, and early intervention strategies to mitigate long-term health risks associated with tobacco use.
Dr. Mridula Singh, Divisional Nodal Officer, National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP), Directorate of Health Services, Jammu, provided a comprehensive overview of India’s tobacco control laws and the Tobacco-Free Educational Institution (ToFEI) framework. She emphasized the vital role that academic institutions play in fostering safe, supportive, and tobacco-free environments, especially for young learners, and called for collective action to shape a more health-conscious generation.
The event witnessed active participation from faculty, officers, staff, and Ph.D. scholars of IIM Jammu, who took a collective pledge to contribute to a tobacco-free society and to raise awareness within their respective communities. On this occasion, badges and posters promoting awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco were distributed among the IIM Jammu community, reinforcing the message of a tobacco-free lifestyle and encouraging collective responsibility in building a healthier campus environment.
This session reaffirmed IIM Jammu’s unwavering commitment to holistic development, community engagement, health advocacy, and the promotion of socially responsible behaviour. The institute continues to play an active role in advancing public health awareness through meaningful collaborations and outreach initiatives.
AWANTIPORA: The Centre for Disaster Risk Reduction (CDRR) at the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), organised a program on the pressing issue of landslides in the Kashmir Himalaya. The event aimed to bolster disaster preparedness and risk reduction awareness among students and faculty, aligning with the Centre's commitment to fostering a culture of safety and resilience.
The key expert of the program was Mr. Abdul Qayoom Paul, Director, Geological Survey of India (GSI), Kashmir, who provided in-depth insights into the triggers, impacts, and mitigation strategies related to landslides, which are increasingly affecting the fragile Himalayan ecosystem. This academic gathering served as a platform for knowledge-sharing and dialogue on disaster risk reduction (DRR), enhancing the capabilities of future professionals and academics in managing and mitigating geohazards.
Dr. Aabid Hussain Shalla, Dean, School of Sciences, while speaking on the occasion, emphasized the importance of scientific understanding in addressing natural hazards. "Equipping our students with scientific knowledge and practical tools to tackle geohazards like landslides is vital for building resilient communities in the Himalayan region," he said. The program was coordinated by Dr. Irfan Maqbool Bhat, Coordinator, CDRR.
JAMMU: As part of a broader initiative led by the Directorate of Tourism, Jammu, a series of celebrity visits across Jammu has been launched to show solidarity with the armed forces and civilians besides inspiring revival of tourism in the region. The first in this initiative was the visit of renowned Bollywood actress Huma Qureshi, who arrived in Jammu to extend her support and amplify the message of peace, resilience and hope.
During her visit, Qureshi engaged in an exclusive interaction with the stakeholders from the Jammu and Katra Hotel and Restaurant Associations. The stakeholders appealed her to promote the scenic beauty, hospitality and cultural richness of Jammu through word-of-mouth and her public platforms. They emphasized that celebrity endorsements can play a vital role in rebuilding tourist confidence and encouraging footfall in the region.
The actress also visited the family of late Raj Kumar Thapa, Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC) Rajouri, who tragically lost his life in a recent attack. She offered her heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and paid tribute to his sacrifice for the nation.
Later in the evening, a cultural programme was organized at the Indo-Pak border, Suchetgarh symbolizing unity and national pride. The event showcased local cultural performances and featured a touching interaction with Army jawans, BSF jawans and affected families aimed at honoring the brave soldiers and showing solidarity with affected families.
Speaking at the event, Huma Qureshi expressed gratitude for the warm reception and conveyed her admiration for the unwavering spirit of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. She vowed to inspire more celebrities and artists to visit the Union Territory and experience its breathtaking beauty, vibrant culture and hospitality.
Her visit marks not just a symbolic gesture, but a powerful message of collective strength and a renewed call to embrace Jammu and Kashmir as a vibrant and safe tourism destination.
GULMARG: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today said that holding back-to-back meetings at tourist resorts Gulmarg and Pahalgam is an effort to instill public confidence and encourage people to visit Kashmir. The Chief Minister made these remarks while chairing a high-level meeting in Gulmarg to assess the functioning of various departments.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, Ministers Sakeena Itoo, Javed Ahmad Rana, Javed Ahmed Dar, Satish Sharma, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Member of Legislative Assembly Gulmarg Farooq Ahmad Shah, Additional Chief Secretary to CM Dheeraj Gupta.
All Administrative Secretaries, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, senior police officers, heads of several departments, CEO Tourism Development Authority Gulmarg and other officials were also present.
Addressing the meeting, the Chief Minister said that if the Prime Minister can convene a meeting to review tourism in Jammu and Kashmir and tour operators from Maharashtra and Gujarat can visit the region voluntarily—not because they were invited, but because they want to contribute to the normalization process—then it is imperative for the state government to take the matching steps.
“These meetings are not symbolic; they are part of a larger effort to initiate a return to normalcy and restore confidence,” he said. “We must do this with sensitivity and without appearing forceful.”
He emphasized the importance of participating in major tourism events outside J&K. “Our absence from such events can send the wrong signal. Tour operators, both from within and outside J&K, have expressed the need for our visible presence at upcoming tourism trade fairs. We are already taking part in major events like those in Ahmedabad and Kolkata, and participation in all major events is being planned carefully,”CM said.
Quoting the Urdu couplet “Dil na-umeed to nahi, nakaam hi to hai; Lambi haigham ki shaam, magar shaam hi to hai,” the Chief Minister reflected on the importance of optimism during adversity. “These lines, which I also quoted at the recent NITI Aayog meeting, serve as a reminder that even in dark times, hope must prevail. What happened recently marks one of the most difficult phases in recent years, but we have endured worse over the past four decades—and always found a way to bounce back.”
He noted that this was the first time such an administrative meeting was held outside the twin secretariats of Jammu and Srinagar. “In my previous tenure, we took the Cabinet to remote areas, but senior-level departmental reviews were confined to the capitals. Holding this meeting here is to transition away from the unfortunate events of the last six weeks.”
Addressing the issue of the closed off-beat destinations, he said the list of 48 such tourist spots is under review and will be revised gradually. “Some of these places were never closed even during the worst days. We’ll have to take measured steps to reopen them.”
CM also spoke of involving schools and colleges to promote local tourism. “Earlier, during peak tourist season, we would discourage student excursions due to overcrowding. Now, we must encourage them. Let the children come and experience these places. It’s another step towards normalcy.”
Referring to his participation in the recent NITI Aayog meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said he had urged the PM and other ministers to consider J&K, especially the Valley, as a venue for central PSU board meetings and conferences—particularly in the summer when most seek respite from the heat. “We had several parliamentary committee meetings scheduled in the Valley which were cancelled after April 22. I’ve requested the Centre to work with the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha Secretariats to bring those meetings back. Some ministers have already committed to doing so.”
On the livelihoods impacted after the Pahalgam attack, he expressed concern for those most vulnerable. “The number of people dependent on tourism has grown significantly in recent years. While larger businesses might endure a downturn, smaller players—like shikara operators, taxi drivers, and homestay owners—face immediate financial distress. For them, daily earnings mean daily survival. We’re working on an assistance package to support them.”
He also pointed to the opportunity presented by the current-lull in tourism. “Normally, peak season leaves us with little space to focus on development. Now, , we can push pending infrastructure and tourism-related projects.” Touching upon upcoming religious events like Mela Kheer Bhawani, Eid, Muharram, and the Amarnath Yatra, he said this year’s pilgrimage will be especially challenging. “From a security and logistical standpoint, we must ensure the Yatra is conducted smoothly. I am confident, given your experience, that all necessary arrangements will be made.”
Earlier, Deputy Chief Minister and the Ministers shared departmental updates and assured full cooperation. Divisional Commissioner Kashmir presented a detailed review specific to the division. The Chief Minister reviewed CAPEX works, emergency preparedness, tourist safety, sports and adventure tourism, mobile connectivity, and sectors like health and rural development. The preparedness for upcoming religious festivals was discussed in detail. Later, the Chief Minister also met delegations from various trade associations in Gulmarg and interacted with visiting tourists.
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