Jammu, Feb 5: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said that every part of Jammu and Kashmir is directly or indirectly connected with the tourism sector and stressed the need to simplify outdated procedures to boost the industry.
Speaking on the floor of the House, while replying to questions raised by several MLAs on the promotion of tourism, CM Omar said that while some districts have high tourism potential and others relatively less, tourism remains an integral component across the entire Union Territory.
Referring to the registration process in the tourism sector, CM Omar acknowledged that the existing mechanism is rigid and needs immediate reform. “Even the department admits that the registration process is too strict and requires simplification. I am personally embarrassed that since 1978 these rules and procedures were never reviewed,” he said.
The Chief Minister also admitted his own share of responsibility, saying, “I was part of the government for six years earlier, and even then we did not think seriously about revisiting these procedures. Many of you were also part of governments at different times, but it did not happen. However, better late than never—we are now working on it.”
He said simplifying the registration process is essential and cannot be treated as a mere formality. “It is not enough to bring it under the Public Services Act and claim that the job is done. Real simplification is required,” CM Omar said.
On reopening tourist destinations, the Chief Minister said the time has come to allow access to areas that were earlier closed in the Kashmir Valley. “It is a fact that some tourist places were closed. The time has now come to open them,” he said.
CM Omar further informed the House that discussions are underway with the Government of India on the issue. “I assure the House that the matter of reopening closed tourist destinations will be taken up with the Union Home Minister, who is visiting Jammu and Kashmir,” he added.
