Jammu, September 2: The Hotel Association of India (HAI) has unveiled a visionary document titled “Vision 2047,” outlining a 25-year roadmap for the future of the hospitality and tourism industry in Kashmir. The report underscores the region’s growing popularity as a travel destination, particularly for adventure tourism, in the wake of the pandemic.
HAI, in a statement, highlighted the increasing allure of Kashmir as a travel destination, coinciding with a surge in tourist numbers. This growth is attributed to enhanced support from the Central government and the Jammu and Kashmir administration. Last year, approximately 18 million tourists visited J&K, and events like the G20 meeting and this year’s Miss World program have positioned the Union Territory as a prominent contender in event tourism.
“The recent G20 meeting hosted in the Union territory not only gave a boost to regional tourism but also showcased the area’s potential as a destination for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) and wedding tourism,” added HAI.
KB Kachru, Vice President of HAI, attributed the recent surge in tourism to Kashmir’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty. The HAI report also addresses challenges in sustainable tourism growth and suggests policy interventions to achieve tourism targets.
The Union government has allocated a record budget of Rs 786 crores for the Jammu and Kashmir tourism sector, a substantial increase from previous allocations. These funds aim to harness tourism’s potential for job creation and inclusive economic growth.
Planned allocations for all 20 districts of the Union territory have more than doubled from Rs 5,136 crores in 2020-2021 to Rs 12,600 crores in 2021-2022. The report explores various potential scenarios for the future and what the industry can achieve by the time India celebrates its 100th year of Independence.
MP Bezbaruah, secretary-general of the Hotel Association of India, described the document as envisioning a dynamic, vibrant hospitality industry that contributes to the nation’s development goals.
HAI presented the report to Union Secretary (Tourism) V Vidyavathi following a meeting, during which the association discussed its findings and recommendations.
