Promoting J&K's Charm
Months after a devastating incident in Pahalgam, a renewed focus is being placed on showcasing the captivating beauty and potential of Jammu and Kashmir
as a premier tourist destination. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has emphasized the critical need for an "aggressive marketing" strategy to fully harness the region's inherent allure. Despite the unfortunate events that impacted the tourism industry, the enthusiasm for visiting Jammu and Kashmir remains vibrant, according to recent observations. The government is committed to offering comprehensive support to nurture new tourism sites within the Union Territory, aiming to re-establish its prominence on the global travel map and ensure the sustained growth of its economy through tourism.
Comprehensive Development Review
During a significant three-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir, Union Home Minister Amit Shah conducted a thorough review of key development initiatives. The meeting, held in Jammu, brought together prominent figures including Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, alongside top officials from both central and regional administrations. The discussions spanned crucial sectors such as road infrastructure enhancement, power generation, industrial growth, and, of course, tourism development. This holistic approach underscores the government's unwavering dedication, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, to fostering a developed and prosperous Jammu and Kashmir, ensuring that all ongoing projects align with this overarching vision for progress and stability.
Economic Empowerment Initiatives
Beyond tourism, the Home Minister highlighted the immense potential of Jammu and Kashmir's hydropower resources, urging for their full exploitation. A strong emphasis was also placed on achieving complete saturation for all government welfare schemes, guaranteeing that the benefits of development endeavors reach every intended recipient. To further engage the youth and channel their energy constructively, substantial investment is being sought for sports infrastructure and the establishment of specialized sports academies. Efforts are underway to secure approximately Rs 200 crore through collaborations with various sports organizations, fostering a new generation of athletes and integrating them into the region's development narrative.
Fiscal Stability and Future Vision
Marking a significant financial step, Jammu and Kashmir has been included in the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme for the first time in FY 2025–26. This inclusion grants access to 50-year interest-free loans for capital projects, a crucial mechanism for bolstering infrastructure and economic growth. Home Minister Shah underscored that enhanced fiscal discipline will play a pivotal role in stabilizing the Union Territory's fiscal deficit over the long term. This strategic financial planning is part of India's broader ambition to achieve the goal of a 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India) by 2047, the nation's 100th year of independence, with the central government pledging continued, wholehearted support to Jammu and Kashmir's journey towards this ambitious future.
