Tourism is the backbone of JK state’s economy :Jora

Scoop News February 11, 2012

Jammu, February 11 (Scoop News) – Minister Tourism and Culture, Nawang Rigzin Jora has stressed for bringing tourism sector as a priority sector in the Indian Economy vis-a-vis the plan allocation of Planning Commission of India.

Addressing a seminar on tourism at New Delhi, Jora said tourism sector in the country is allotted 1000 crores for all the states in the country which is too meagre as compared to the vital role being played by this sector. He stated that in case we put in Rs. 10 lakh in the sector, 70 people on an average get employed by one way or the other. This sector if taken into totality is very vital and sensitive one in creating employment opportunities and improving the economy of common man in the country. He said only I% of the GDP is being invested in the sector so far.

The Minister further emphasized the members of CII and various private stakeholders / players in the tourism sector to come under one umbrella and prevail upon the central government authorities including the Planning Commission to come to their rescue and address their demands favourably.

Jora emphasized that the J&K particularly Kashmir and Ladakh attracted foreign tourists in a big way prior to 1989 and thereafter because of unpleasant happenings, the adverse advisories came into existence by the foreign countries.

Now in view of improved situation, West Germany has lifted the advisory for its nationals to visit the state. He said lifting of adverse advisory with Newzeland, South Africa, Brittan and other European counties need to be taken up at the national level so that inflow of foreign tourists improve as tourism is the backbone of state economy. Members of tourism industry were present in the seminar.

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