Tourism revival on agenda as JKHARA holds talks with Director Tourism Kashmir

Srinagar, Dec 20:: President of the Jammu and Kashmir Hotel and Restaurant Association, Babar Chowdhary, met Director Tourism, Kashmir, Qamar Sajad, to deliberate on ways to boost tourism activity and address long-pending issues faced by stakeholders in the hospitality sector.

The JKHARA President was accompanied by General Secretary Ayeesha Saleem, Joint Secretary Shafi, Pahalgam Chapter Chairman Irfan Hamza, Executive Committee member Mustafa Badyari and Coordinator Pragya.

During the meeting, the delegation stressed the need for organising tourism fairs and targeted travel promotions, particularly for travel agents, to attract both domestic and international visitors. They also called for simplifying the registration and renewal processes for tourism units, stating that procedural delays often discourage investment and expansion.

Highlighting that tourism remains the backbone of Jammu and Kashmir’s economy, the association urged the government to take immediate steps to extend lease periods for hotels and restaurants to encourage long-term infrastructure development. The delegation also sought streamlined renewal mechanisms for established properties.

The issue of multiple departmental clearances was also raised, with JKHARA seeking closer coordination between the Tourism Department, Fire and Emergency Services and the Pollution Control Board to make the registration and renewal process more efficient and less time-consuming.

The association further proposed the regular organisation of Familiarisation (FAM) Tours and called for a comprehensive and sustained strategy for the revival of tourism in the Valley. Emphasising marketing and promotion, the delegation urged the department to fully utilise the funds already allotted and to submit proposals to the government for additional resources aimed at promoting Kashmir as a tourist destination.

The meeting, according to JKHARA, focused on ensuring inclusive, sustainable growth and long-term revival of the tourism industry in Kashmir.

The association also welcomed Qamar Sajad on his appointment as Director Tourism, Kashmir, and expressed confidence that his leadership would play a key role in revitalising the sector and addressing the concerns of tourism stakeholders.