Last Updated on February 23, 2022 at 7:07 pm
The year 2021 witnessed a large footfall of tourists; both national as well as international due to numerous positive and constructive interventions of Central Government in consonance with the government of Jammu And Kashmir.
Several remarkable initiatives were undertaken across the length and breadth of the Union Territory to rejuvenate the dwindling economic landscape which was affected due to relentless wrath of Covid-19.
In one such major intervention for upliftment of tourism sector in J&K, Union government made record budget allocation of 786 crores in budget for tourism sector here which is 509 crores higher than last budgetary allocation with an intent to boost tourism and allied services of Jammu and Kashmir.
In commensuration with this, government of J&K has also undertaken several initiatives to give further stimulus and impetus to tourism sector here.
In a mega push to promote ecotourism in Jammu and Kashmir, government has approved development of seven new trekking routes in various wildlife protected areas. The decision will also allow online booking of 29 forest rest houses and inspection huts in Kashmir and Jammu divisions, under a common brand and logo.
The first night flight has started operating from Srinagar Airport on March 18,2021,marking the dawn of a new era and indicating improvement in air connectivity to Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of country.
Lieutenant Governor of J&K, Manoj Sinha also launched golf training Academy at Kashmir Golf Course in July 2021 to promote and strengthen sports ecosystem in the union territory. This is a giant step forward for restoring historic golf course after 2014 floods.
A four day JK open golf tournament was also organized in Kashmir on 15th September 2021 to attract large numbers of golf lovers and to make Jammu and Kashmir the golfing capital of the world.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has picked Srinagar among 49 cities as part of the creative city network under the Crafts and Folk arts category. This inclusion is likely to pave way for the city to represent its handicrafts on the global stage through UNESCO. It is a major recognition for Jammu and Kashmir on global platform.
Worth to mention, Jammu And Kashmir recorded highest tourist footfall in last 7 years. Tourist foot fall crossed 6.65 lakh in 2021 compared to 4.1 lakh in 2020. 1.27 lakh tourists were recorded in November which is highest from the past decade.
