JAMMU, Jun 24: Senior BJP leader and former Sarpanch Adv. Devraj Sharma has hailed the record-breaking footfall of pilgrims at the revered shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi as an encouraging sign for the tourism sector and the overall economy of Jammu and Kashmir.
In a statement issued here today, Adv. Sharma said that the unprecedented influx of devotees to the holy shrine reflects the growing confidence of tourists and pilgrims in Jammu and Kashmir as a safe and attractive destination. He noted that the increasing number of visitors is contributing significantly to local businesses, transport services, hospitality establishments, and allied sectors, thereby strengthening the Union Territory’s economy.
He urged the Government to further enhance infrastructure, connectivity, accommodation facilities, sanitation, and other visitor amenities to sustain the growing momentum in pilgrimage and tourism. According to him, continuous investment in tourism infrastructure is essential to accommodate the rising number of visitors and improve their overall experience.
Adv. Sharma emphasized that while the success of the Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrimage is commendable, the Government should also focus on developing other religious, cultural, and tourist destinations across the Jammu region. He said that several sites possessing immense spiritual, historical, and natural significance remain underexplored and require focused attention for their promotion and development.
“Balanced development of tourism in both Jammu and Kashmir regions is vital for ensuring equitable economic growth and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities,” he said.
The BJP leader further observed that the promotion of new tourist circuits, along with the upgradation of existing destinations, would not only attract more visitors but also generate substantial employment opportunities for youth. He stressed the need to identify and develop new tourism destinations, improve accessibility, and provide modern facilities while preserving the unique cultural and environmental heritage of the region.
Adv. Sharma expressed confidence that a comprehensive tourism development strategy covering pilgrimage, heritage, adventure, eco-tourism, and rural tourism would help Jammu and Kashmir emerge as a leading tourism destination in the country. Such initiatives, he said, would accelerate economic growth, create jobs, boost entrepreneurship, and contribute significantly to the overall development of the Union Territory.
He called upon all stakeholders, including government agencies, local bodies, and tourism industry participants, to work collectively towards unlocking the vast tourism potential of Jammu and Kashmir and ensuring that the benefits of tourism reach every corner of the region.