Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday outlined a dual strategy of boosting tourism and reviving traditional crafts, while also stressing that any future delimitation exercise must remain fair and reflect the people’s mandate.
Marking the beginning of the tourism season in Kashmir, Abdullah said the government is introducing new attractions to enhance visitor experience alongside efforts to promote local industries. With major garden spaces like the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden drawing large crowds, he said the focus is now on creating more engaging experiences for tourists across the Valley.
He emphasised that tourism and local economic growth are closely linked, noting that initiatives are underway to showcase Kashmir’s rich craft heritage at centralized venues. Visitors, he said, will be able to experience and purchase a diverse range of authentic products, including papier-mâché, pashmina shawls, copperware and intricate wood carvings.
In a major step towards promoting artisans, Abdullah launched the ‘Know Your Artisan’ initiative under the ‘Soulful Kashmir’ campaign. The programme aims to connect craftsmen directly with buyers, ensure fair value for their work, and strengthen the authenticity of traditional products. He described artisans as custodians of Jammu and Kashmir’s cultural identity and called for sustained efforts to give their work global visibility.
The Chief Minister also inaugurated new infrastructure to support the sector, including a GI testing lab, advanced fibre analysis equipment, and digital tools developed with the Indian Institute of Carpet Technology. He reviewed the ‘Try Your Hands’ segment, which offers live craft demonstrations to visitors, and even participated in pashmina weaving activities.
Urging greater public participation, Abdullah appealed to residents and tourists alike to visit craft hubs such as Kashmir Haat, saying such engagement not only preserves heritage but directly supports artisans.
On the industrial front, he acknowledged that the previous incentive-based policy expired in September and said a new, more practical framework is being prepared. The government, he added, is consulting both existing businesses and prospective investors to ensure the policy translates into real investment and job creation on the ground.
Earlier in the day, the Chief Minister also unveiled a renovated war memorial at the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (JAKLI) centre in Srinagar on its 78th Raising Day, paying tribute to the regiment’s service and legacy.
