Anticipating a Boost in Tourism in Jammu and Kashmir with the Amarnath Yatra

Mehbooba Mufti, president of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), expressed optimism on Thursday (June 12) about a tourism revival in Jammu and Kashmir with the upcoming Amarnath Yatra next month. While speaking to reporters in Patnitop, Mufti pointed out that, despite the resumption of train services, tourist numbers in Kashmir remain low. “Train services have restarted, yet tourist arrivals in Kashmir have not seen much increase. I believe that once the Amarnath Yatra kicks off, we will definitely see a rise in tourist numbers. These previously empty tourist destinations will once again thrive,” she stated.

The tourism sector in the Union Territory has been adversely affected following a recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam that resulted in 26 fatalities, primarily among tourists, on April 22.

Mufti emphasized the financial hardships faced by those reliant on tourism. “Hotel owners are in distress

, pony operators are struggling. Conditions in Patnitop mirror those in Pahalgam. If the Yatra is successful, I am confident that tourism will rebound,” she remarked.
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During a one-day PDP convention, the former chief minister urged the National Conference (NC)-led government to provide financial support to individuals burdened by loans. She advocated for reduced instalments and extended repayment periods to alleviate economic pressures.

Discussing international relations, Mufti stressed the importance of peaceful dialogue between India and Pakistan. “I believe both nations are struggling financially, investing heavily in defense. Those funds should be redirected toward the betterment of people’s lives,” she noted. While criticizing Pakistan’s reliance on foreign loans, she cautioned against ongoing conflict. “Their nation is sustained by loans from foreign banks. Our country is flourishing. However, ongoing disputes could lead to consistent threats. Should a conflict arise, uncertainty will overshadow our nation, and poverty will only escalate.”

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When asked about the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) 11-year tenure, Mufti responded, “The BJP leaders are better positioned to explain how they have made improvements. What can I say about it?”

She also held the NC accountable for its electoral promises, urging the ruling party to meet its commitments to the public. “If the National Conference has 50 MLAs and three MPs, and they pledged to supply 200 units of free electricity, they must follow through,” she asserted. “They promised free gas cylinders. They should fulfill that promise. They also claimed they would create jobs for one lakh unemployed youth,” she added, emphasizing, “We are prepared to support them fully on any pro-people agenda or issues.”