SRINAGAR: Srinagar hosts Tourism Conclave, celebrates World Craft City status, anticipates record-breaking tourist arrival, supported by film industry participation.
Recently, Srinagar hosted the two-day Tourism Development Conclave-2024, organised by the Tourism Department, focusing on promoting sustainable tourism practices in Jammu and Kashmir. The event gathered industry leaders and film representatives to discuss strategies.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha highlighted the central government’s robust funding for sustainable tourism and efforts to elevate Kashmir’s global tourism profile. He noted a significant post-pandemic growth, with a remarkable 300% year-on-year rise in foreign tourists, attributing it to new policies, conducive environments, and stimulus measures.
Domestic tourism in Kashmir this summer has validated these efforts, with over 1.25 million visitors in the past six months alone, signalling a potential record-breaking year for 2024. Last year, Kashmir welcomed 21.1 million tourists, vital for its economy and livelihoods.
In a significant accolade, Srinagar was designated as a World Craft City by the World Crafts Council, promising a boost to the handicraft sector and overall infrastructure development. This recognition is expected to attract more tourists interested in cultural and artisanal heritage, offering immersive experiences in vibrant artisan communities.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha while talking to the media about Srinagar being recognised as a World Craft City said that Srinagar is set to get enhanced tourist footfall from foreign countries.
He said, “Tourism in Srinagar is also set to benefit significantly from this recognition. The city is expected to draw more tourists interested in cultural and craft heritage, providing them with immersive experiences of the vibrant artisan communities”.
He further said Srinagar city’s cultural and craft heritage will attract tourists seeking authentic experiences, including visits to artisan workshops and cultural events showcasing the vibrant crafts.
Prominent figures from the film industry, including Imtiaz Ali, Vishal Bhardwaj, Kabir Khan, and Sanjay Suri, participated in the conclave, underscoring Srinagar’s growing appeal for sustainable tourism and film production.