Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha said that this year has witnessed a commendable total of 127 million tourists, encompassing both domestic and international travellers…reports Asian Lite News
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha highlighted a notable upswing in foreign tourist arrivals, marking a positive turning point after a prolonged period of reduced numbers. He revealed that foreign guest visits to the region have surged by an impressive 59%.
This resurgence is attributed to the imminent removal of unfavourable travel advisories that had been issued by certain nations and the successful G-20 summit in Srinagar.
Speaking at the Independence Day gathering held at the well-guarded Bakshi Stadium, Lt. Governor Sinha conveyed that this year has witnessed a commendable total of 127 million tourists, encompassing both domestic and international travellers.
Notably, a substantial proportion of this count comprises foreign visitors. The remarkable 59% rise in foreign tourist arrivals this year can be attributed in part to the successful G-20 summit that was hosted, showcasing J&K on a global platform.
This positive momentum was further fuelled by the optimistic outcomes of the G-20 tourism working group meeting held in May in Srinagar, which comprised representatives from 27 countries. The sentiment expressed by these delegates underscored J&K’s identity as a haven of tranquillity and natural splendour.
The Lieutenant Governor also underscored the broader recognition J&K has garnered due to the transformative changes initiated four years ago, leading to a state of peaceful coexistence.
Highlighting the success of this year’s Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage, he emphasized that it drew not just devotees from within the country but also pilgrims from abroad. He added that the region’s reputation has evolved into a symbol of serenity and scenic charm.
Expressing his optimism, Lt. Governor Sinha asserted that the negative travel advisories imposed by certain nations on J&K are anticipated to be lifted shortly. He reiterated the administration’s commitment to ensuring that every individual can lead a life of their choosing, free from undue pressure or anxiety.
Recalls dream of new J&K
LG Manoj Sinha recalled that three years ago he had shared his dream of making a new Jammu and Kashmir where there is modernity and spirituality.
Ahead of his Independence Day speech, L-G Manoj Sinha hoisted the National Flag in Srinagar’s Bakshi stadium.
Earlier flower petals were showered from a helicopter on crowds gathered at the stadium to participate in the Independence Day celebrations
For the first time, since the abrogation of Article 370, a huge gathering of participants was witnessed from all walks of life in the stadium.
Addressing the crowd on Independence Day, LG Sinha said, “On this auspicious occasion, I give my best wishes to our citizens. This pious day is about remembering, the dedication and resolution of all the Indian citizens. I pay homage to freedom fighters, respected ancestors, and to those who gave their lives for freedom”.
He said that whenever the medal tally is announced on the occasion of Independence Day, there is always a long list of our brave Jammu and Kashmir police personnel.
“Three years ago on the same day, I shared my dream of making a new Jammu & Kashmir in which there’s modernity and spirituality. For me, the biggest religion is to see a smile on every person’s face” the LG said.
Carrying the tricolour in their hands, school students along with locals and members of civil society hosted the national flag at Char Chinar inside the Dal lake on the outskirts of Srinagar.
This year’s Independence Day will culminate the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ celebrations, which were launched by Prime Minister Modi from Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad, Gujarat on March 12, 2021, and will usher the country into ‘Amrit Kaal’.
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