Srinagar, Mar 23: The Centre on Monday said that Jammu and Kashmir is receiving focused attention under various central tourism schemes aimed at developing world-class infrastructure and promoting mountain tourism in the region.
Replying to a question in Lok Sabha, the Ministry of Tourism said that while development of tourism remains primarily the responsibility of States and Union Territories, the Centre is supplementing efforts through flagship schemes like Swadesh Darshan, Swadesh Darshan 2.0, PRASHAD and other initiatives.
The government said that Jammu and Kashmir has been included in the Himalayan tourism circuit under the Swadesh Darshan scheme, with multiple projects sanctioned to boost tourism infrastructure across key destinations, including Jammu, Srinagar, Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Baramulla and Kupwara.
According to official details accessed by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), several projects worth crores have been sanctioned in J&K under the Himalayan Circuit, focusing on the development of tourist facilities, connectivity, and infrastructure in both the Kashmir and Jammu regions. These include projects for areas such as Anantnag, Pulwama, Kishtwar, Daksum and Ranjit Sagar Dam, among others.
The Ministry further said that the government is also investing in restoration and development works, including infrastructure created in lieu of assets damaged during the 2014 floods in the region.
Under the PRASHAD scheme, the government has also sanctioned development works at Hazratbal Shrine in Srinagar to enhance pilgrimage tourism and improve facilities for visitors.
Highlighting future plans, the government said that in the Union Budget 2026-27, special emphasis has been laid on developing world-class trekking and hiking trails in Jammu and Kashmir, recognising its vast potential in mountain tourism.
The Centre added that under various national schemes, financial assistance is being provided to improve tourism experiences, infrastructure and sustainability across the region, aiming to position Jammu and Kashmir as a global tourism destination.
The government reiterated that these initiatives are part of a broader strategy to promote sustainable tourism, generate employment and boost the local economy in Jammu and Kashmir. (KNO)
