Leh, June 16: The Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, on Wednesday said the state had immense potential for eco-tourism. He urged the people to preserve its natural beauty.  
 "In a state like ours where tourism is predominantly dependent on natural beauty, everyone has a role to play in the conservation of nature and should avoid unnecessary human interference," Omar, who is on a 5--day visit to Ladakh region, said at a function.
 "Our future is subservient to safeguarding the invaluable natural wealth which God has gifted us in plenty," he added.
 The Chief Minister said maintenance of the environment was vital for growth of eco-tourism in the state.
 "This will help us achieve the twin objectives of preserving the natural beauty and attracting tourists from across the world," he said.
 Sports like paragliding, trekking, mountain biking, skiing, which will generate greater economic opportunities for the people by attracting tourists, should be encouraged, Omar said.
 Government has embarked on a scientific and environment- friendly tourism development policy to restore pristine glory of Jammu and Kashmir and develop the state as first tourist choice in the world, the chief minister said.
CM releases Leh comic manual
 Later Chief Minister, released “Comic manual” published by the District Panchayat Office, Rural Development Department, Leh.
 The Comic book highlights the utility of Hygienic practices and is part of the awareness launched under Total Sanitation Campaign. The Chief Minister lauded the publication.
 The President All Gompa Association, Togdan Rinpochey and President Muslim Association, Nazir Khan called on the Chief Minister and presented a memorandum to him.

Lastupdate on : Wed, 16 Jun 2010 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Wed, 16 Jun 2010 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Thu, 17 Jun 2010 00:00:00 IST