Fayaz Bukhari
SRINAGAR, June 18: Union Minister for Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, today said that security is paramount for tourism to flourish in Kashmir.
Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp
Speaking to reporters after visiting the Naranag Temple in Ganderbal district, Shekhawat reiterated that both the Government of India and the Government of Jammu and Kashmir are fully committed to promote tourism in the Valley.
“Security is paramount, and once security challenges are addressed, the growth of tourism in Kashmir will benefit not only the region but also the entire nation and its people,” he said.
The Union Minister added that the Government aims to de-cluster tourism beyond Srinagar, as, he said, there is beauty and heritage in many other areas of Kashmir as well.
“In Ganderbal, sites like Kheer Bhawani, Manasbal, and Naranag have immense potential. We will work on developing these sites for tourism in coordination with the Government of J&K,” he said.
He further stated that discussions will be held on how to promote tourism in these areas and ensure better protection of these historical and natural assets. “A comprehensive plan will be formulated and implemented accordingly.”
Shekhawat noted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Government of India is working with the mantra of preserving heritage while progressing forward.
“India is home to many historic buildings, and we are committed to conserving these sites. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is actively involved in their preservation,” he added.
Referring to the Naranag temple, he said the protected heritage site reflects the rich history and culture of the country.
“It is not only the Government’s responsibility to safeguard such places, but also society’s duty to cooperate in their preservation,” he said.
Earlier, the Union Minister also visited the shrine of Mata Kheer Bhawani in Tulmulla.
“The temple is nestled around a sacred spring, its waters believed to change colours with the moods of the Divine Mother’s grace. The ancient chinar trees and the pristine mountain air at this revered seat of Shakti make it a truly sublime experience,” he wrote on ‘X’.
The present shrine, he informed, was built in 1912 by Maharaja Pratap Singh and later restored by Maharaja Hari Singh, but the sanctity of this place echoes from much earlier times; its spiritual power is mentioned even in Kalhana’s Rajatarangini.
“Every year, thousands gather here on Jyeshtha Ashtami to offer prayers and feel the Devi’s abiding presence. #IncredibleIndia, he wrote.”
Follow our WhatsApp channel
