Excelsior Correspondent
KATRA, May 17: The Chamber of Tourism, Trade and Industry Katra (CTTIK) has issued an earnest appeal to the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, seeking the announcement of a comprehensive relief package and tourism revival plan in the wake of the severe downturn faced by the tourism sector following the recent adverse developments in the region.
The resolution was formally moved by CTTIK president Raj Kumar Padha and was strongly supported by Raman Goswami (Vice President), Atul Sharma (Secretary), and Executive Members Neelam Singh and Arun Sharma. In a statement, he emphasized that the tourism industry remains the backbone of Jammu and Kashmir’s economy, contributing significantly to employment, trade, and overall economic activity. However, the industry is also the most vulnerable to disruptions, being the first to suffer and the last to recover in the event of any disturbance.
Earlier, members of CTTIK expressed deep admiration for the valour and courage displayed by the Indian forces during the recent Operation Sindoor. They also offered heartfelt prayers for the souls of the soldiers, border residents, and innocent tourists of the Pahalgam attack who lost their lives.
CTTIK expressed serious concern that the recent war-like situation occurred during the most vital part of the tourist calendar – the months of April and May, traditionally considered peak season in Jammu and Kashmir. As a result, the tourism season has been completely wiped out, leaving hoteliers, guest house operators, transporters, traders, wholesalers, and allied industries under severe financial stress. The abrupt drop in tourist arrivals has created an economic void across multiple sectors tied directly and indirectly to tourism.
In light of this critical scenario, Goswami has appealed to the Government to announce an immediate relief package that includes the deferment of EMIs on term loans for at least six months, interest subvention on existing loans and working capital, and postponement of utility bill payments and state dues. These measures, the chamber believes, are essential to give breathing space to thousands of small and medium enterprises that are struggling to survive amidst plummeting revenues.
RK Padha has called upon the Chief Minister to take decisive and compassionate steps to support the sector.
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