Union Ministers, MPs lead tourism push in Kashmir

New Delhi: Members of Parliament from across parties and two Union Ministers have visited the Kashmir Valley in the last fortnight, aiming to boost tourism in the region in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack.

The Union Tourism Ministry is set to organise a two-day conference of tourism officials from all state governments starting July 7. The meeting will also be attended by Union Minister Gajendra Shekhawat.

Last month, Shekhawat-who holds the charge of the Tourism and Culture Ministries-visited Srinagar, met Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and also visited the tourist spot in Pahalgam where terrorists killed 26 people in an attack on April 22.


Shekhawat spent time with locals and said he interacted with residents and tourists who are helping bring the region back to its lively spirit and everyday rhythm. He was accompanied by his wife during his visit to Pahalgam.

Speaking to ET, Shekhawat said his ministry is organising the two-day conference in Srinagar to help revive tourism in the Valley and that all efforts will be made in that direction.

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan also visited Srinagar. During his visit, Chouhan was seen mingling freely with locals in the Lal Chowk area. Along with his wife, he also joined Shia Muslim mourners in Srinagar and distributed water and sharbat as part of the Muharram observances.

In addition, two parliamentary panels have also visited the Valley.