Srinagar Feb 13: Minister for Tourism Nawang Ringzin Jora today called for joint efforts by government and tourism stakeholders to create “a congenial atmosphere for attracting more and more tourists to the Valley.”
 He said state tourism ministry conducted several tourism melas in various parts of the country like Banglore, Kolcutta, Surat, Ahmedabad, Pune, Mumbai, Delhi, etc and gave tremendous publicity to the tourist destinations in the Valley. “But these attempts could only bear fruit, when we initiate efforts for creating such an atmosphere which will attract tourists not only from country but abroad also.”
 He said government had fixed a target of one million tourists for Valley for 2010 summer, but unfortunately such a situation was created that a heavy tourist influx had to return back for other tourist destination of the country.
 Jora said government is also working over a plan that tourists should ensure their longer stay in the Valley at various tourist spots, which will boost the economy of the people connected with this industry.
 The Minister was addressing a function here this morning organised by Kashmir Hotel and Restaurant Association (KHARA). Minister of State for Tourism Nasir Aslam Wani also spoke on the occasion. Divisional Commissioner Dr. Asgar Samoon and Director Tourism Farooq Ahmad Shah were present on the occasion.  The representatives of various tourist and traders associations were also present.
 Earlier, Jora and Wani released a telephone directory prepared by KHARA namely “Destination Paradise”.
 President KHARA Siraj Ahmad apprised the ministers of various difficulties and problems confronting tourism industry in the valley.
 Wani assured the association of full support and said government has already initiated several measures for promoting new tourist destinations like Bangus, Doodhpathri, Yousmarg, Sonamarg etc for which Development Authorities have already been framed and work on various projects is on. He appealed the people connecting with the tourism industry to play their role in maintaining peaceful atmosphere, which is imperative for a successful tourist season.
 He said government alone on this part cannot do anything and thus people should extend their full support to the government.

Lastupdate on : Sun, 13 Feb 2011 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Sun, 13 Feb 2011 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Mon, 14 Feb 2011 00:00:00 IST