Srinagar — Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha on Sunday urged stakeholders to redefine tourism as a responsibility toward nature, culture, and society, saying the sector must be sustainable, inclusive and beneficial to all. He was addressing the ‘Ethical Tourism Conclave’ organized by the Tourist Trade Interest Guild, J&K in Srinagar. Key Highlights from LG’s Address 1. Tourism as a Moral Responsibility LG Sinha said the theme “Responsible Today, Sustainable Tomorrow, Beneficial for All” reflects society’s duty to protect J&K’s natural and cultural heritage for future generations. “Jammu Kashmir has always been called ‘heaven on earth’ because of the harmony between nature and culture. Tourism must celebrate this heritage, and ethical tourism should guide its future,” he said. 2. Record Growth, But Focus on People The LG noted that in the last 6 years, J&K tourism has seen record tourist arrivals, investments, and job creation. Domestic and international traveler confidence has also returned. However, he stressed that real success will be measured by whether hope, dignity, and prosperity reach every household. 3. Inclusivity at the Core He called for boatmen of Dal Lake, pony owners on mountain trails, artisans of pashmina and papier-mache, and homestay families in Gurez and Bangus to be equal partners. “Profits should not be limited to big enterprises. Tourism must ensure dignified income, training, and opportunities for all. Let prosperity reach the last village, the last family, and the last person in the queue,” LG Sinha said. 4. Sustainability and Conservation The LG pushed for zero-impact infrastructure and said development must go hand-in-hand with conservation of forests, lakes and rivers. He urged a mass movement for eco-friendly tourism: avoid single-use plastic, manage waste properly, conserve water and energy, and respect wildlife. 5. Action Plan Proposed LG Sinha asked stakeholders to turn discussions into concrete plans with goals and timelines. His suggestions included: Certification standards for eco-friendly homestays and hotels Skill and training programs for youth to become guardians of nature and culture Using digital platforms to connect tourists directly with local communities “If our youth and local communities link innovation with sensitivity, and technology with culture, J&K can become a model of sustainable tourism for the entire country,” he added. Who Attended The conclave was attended by Zahoor Ahmed Karnai, Chairman Tourist Trade Interest Guild; Prof. Nilofer Khan, VC University of Kashmir; Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, VC IUST; Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg; DIG CKR Rajiv Pandey; SSP Srinagar Dr. G.V. Sundeep Chakravarthy; DC Srinagar Akshay Labroo, along with industry leaders and members of the trade guild. Post navigation IGU Report: LNG Alone Won’t Be Enough for India’s Gas Growth
