Tourism Boom in Jammu and Kashmir: Post-Article 370 Abrogation Sees Unprecedented Growth

Jammu and Kashmir's tourism sector has surged following the abrogation of Article 370, with 1.08 crore tourists visiting in the past six months. Government measures have spurred a 15.13% annual growth rate over the last three years. Modern infrastructure, incentives, and diverse tourist attractions are driving this growth.

The tourism sector in Jammu and Kashmir has experienced remarkable growth following the abrogation of Article 370, with a total of 1.08 crore tourists visiting the region in the last six months, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) informed the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday. Union Minister of State for Home, Nityanand Rai, cited a report from the Jammu and Kashmir government, highlighting an annual average growth rate of 15.13% over the last three years.

Rai disclosed that 1,08,41,009 tourists visited Jammu and Kashmir between January and June 2024, a significant increase from 2,11,24,674 tourists in 2023, 1,88,64,332 in 2022, 1,13,14,884 in 2021, and 34,70,834 in 2020. The 2020 figures were notably affected by the Covid pandemic.

The Jammu and Kashmir government has undertaken several initiatives to boost tourism, including the introduction of the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Policy 2020 and incentives under the Jammu and Kashmir Industrial Policy 2021, which recognize tourism as an industry in the Union Territory. Homestay guidelines have also been set to accommodate increasing tourist numbers and benefit locals economically.

Further measures include the Jammu and Kashmir Film Policy 2021 and Houseboat Policy 2020, along with identifying 75 off-beat destinations. Border tourism has also seen a rise, with new locations like Gurez, Keran, Teetwal, and R S Pura opening for tourists. The region is also emerging in adventure and golf tourism.

Infrastructure projects are underway, transforming Jammu and Kashmir into an international tourist destination after hosting major events like the 3rd G-20 Tourism Working Group Meeting. Increased modern infrastructure and luxury accommodations are making the region a prime location for destination weddings and MICE tourism. The tourism sector's contribution to Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) has climbed from 7.84% in FY 2019-20 to 8.47% in FY 2022-23, according to the government.

(With inputs from agencies.)