SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department has announced that more than Rs 50 billion have been spent over the last two years to upgrade tourism infrastructure and promote the region, resulting in record-breaking visitor numbers.
According to the Tourism Minister, Rs 25.38 billion were allocated for the fiscal year 2023–24 and another Rs 26.85 billion for 2024–25 under the Capex budget to strengthen tourism facilities across the Union Territory.
He clarified that no centrally sponsored schemes were implemented during this period. However, around Rs 5 billion were set aside for publicity and promotional campaigns, of which Rs 4.21 billion were utilized effectively.
These marketing initiatives, he noted, have significantly contributed to a surge in tourism, introducing several previously lesser-known destinations to travelers.
“Over the past two years, more than 40 million tourists visited Jammu and Kashmir — an all-time high for the region, which has a population of about 13 million,” the minister said. “Foreign tourist arrivals have also grown remarkably, rising from 19,000 in 2021–22 to 47,000 in 2022–23.”
He added that emerging destinations such as Gurez, Bangus, Doodhpathri, Aitham, and Basohli have gained popularity due to sustained promotional efforts.
Highlighting another achievement, the minister said Jammu and Kashmir is fast becoming a preferred destination for film production, with major movies like Leo and Dunki recently shot in the scenic region.
Read more: https://nayakashmir.com/sci-raps-states-as-2-lakh-stray-dog-bites-hit-jk/
