JAMMU, February 4: Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo presided over a meeting today with various stakeholders in the tourism sector from Jammu, gathering their insights on maximizing the region’s tourism potential, particularly after the influx of nearly one crore pilgrims to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine (SMVDS) in Katra.
During the discussions, Dulloo encouraged representatives from hotels, transportation services, and other tourism-related businesses to propose strategies for attracting these shrine visitors to nearby religious and tourist destinations.
He emphasized that tourism operators have a vital role in promoting the attractions around Jammu. Dulloo urged them to develop specific suggestions and plans for each destination, recommending the establishment of two to four-day travel packages tailored to the uniqueness and appeal of each site.
He also requested a diverse range of activities within each package, incorporating spiritual, eco-tourism, leisure, culinary, cultural, and adventure experiences. He encouraged creating multiple options alongside the Shri Vaishno Devi Yatra, enabling visitors to select based on their interests.
The Chief Secretary stressed the importance of generating substantial promotional content, noting the region’s various success stories as a guide. He highlighted the value of consistently sharing updates on social media and other promotional outlets, which he believes will yield long-term benefits.
Dulloo assured that the government would provide comprehensive support to achieve these objectives, advocating for seasonal plans for joint promotional efforts with the Tourism Department.
He also pointed out the necessity for enhanced infrastructure and facilities at tourism sites, promising government investment in essential projects to improve amenities, transport, and other services.
Commissioner Secretary of Tourism, Yasha Mudgal, emphasized the potential of various locations near Katra, including Shiv Khori, Baradari, the Chenab Rail Bridge, Jammu City, Patnitop, Mantalai, Sanasar, and Sudhmahadev, all within a 100 km radius that could be introduced to visiting pilgrims.
Mudgal noted that the Department is organizing numerous festivals and familiarization tours to promote J&K’s tourism destinations in both national and international markets, highlighting successful campaigns that have increased visitor numbers.
The meeting also provided updates on tourism infrastructure developments and future plans for expansion. It was stated that with input from local stakeholders, the Department is dedicated to integrating these sites into India’s tourism landscape.
Attendees included the Principal Secretary of Finance, Commissioner Secretary of Tourism, Secretary of PWD, CEO of SMVDSB, DC of Jammu, DC of Reasi, MD of JKTDC, Director of Tourism in Jammu, and various other departmental officials.
