Suhail Bhat
Srinagar, July 1: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Chowdhary today said the successful conduct of this year’s Amarnath Yatra will serve as a milestone in reviving tourism in Jammu and Kashmir, which has suffered a setback following the deadly attack on tourists in Pahalgam earlier this year.
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Choudhary made these remarks during his visit to the Baltal base camp to review the arrangements for the annual pilgrimage, which begins on July 3. He described the yatra as “a festival of Jammu and Kashmir” and a symbol of spiritual unity, hospitality, and cultural heritage passed down by the region’s elders.
Urging people from across the country and the world to join the pilgrimage, Chowdhary said, “If we, the people of Jammu and Kashmir, say with pride that we are Indians, then people from all over will come on this journey, lift the morale of our people, and give tourism a much-needed boost. This Yatra will become a milestone for that revival.”
Reflecting on his own long-held desire to undertake the Yatra, he praised the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) for making the track more accessible. “Earlier, I could not walk on the crooked path, but today I saw with my own eyes the excellent work BRO has done. This is just the beginning. A day will come when even our elders will be able to visit Baba Amarnath comfortably,” he said, lauding BRO’s efforts despite Kashmir’s short working season.
Choudhary said that the Yatra’s success depends not only on the Shrine Board but also on the active support of the Jammu and Kashmir Government. “Every department-PDD, Jal Shakti, Rural Development, and others-is contributing. I have asked officers to display their work visibly at the camps so people know what is being done,” he said.
The Deputy CM also highlighted the need to promote the region’s traditional handicrafts and industries during the Yatra. He instructed the Industries, Handloom, and Handicrafts departments to set up stalls at the base camps showcasing Jammu and Kashmir’s rich artisan legacy.
He said fake Kashmiri shawls are being sold across the world under false labels. “We must ensure that tourists coming for the Yatra can see and buy authentic products. Even if two shawls are sold, it will motivate our artisans,” he added.
Calling on people to visit Kashmir’s picnic spots and scenic destinations, Chowdhary said the Yatra is a chance to experience the famed hospitality and brotherhood of the region. “We must preserve this tradition passed down from our elders. If brotherhood and hospitality are lost, we will lose our culture,” he said.
He appealed to people to participate in the pilgrimage and support Jammu and Kashmir’s revival.
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