DEC 18 : The Chief Minister today presided over the 17th Annual Convention of the Adventure Tour Operators’ Association of India (ATOAI) at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC), Srinagar, underscoring Jammu and Kashmir’s immense potential to emerge as a premier destination for adventure tourism at the national and global level.
Addressing delegates, policymakers, tourism professionals and adventure tour operators from across the country, the Chief Minister said that Jammu and Kashmir’s unique geographical diversity — ranging from snow-clad mountains and alpine meadows to rivers, forests and high-altitude passes — offers unparalleled opportunities for adventure tourism. Activities such as trekking, mountaineering, river rafting, skiing, paragliding and camping can be developed further with a structured and responsible approach.
The Chief Minister emphasised that safety, sustainability and capacity-building must remain the central pillars of adventure tourism growth in the Union Territory. He noted that ensuring the safety of tourists and service providers is essential for building confidence and credibility in the sector. Proper training, adherence to international safety standards, certification of operators and use of quality equipment were highlighted as critical requirements for sustainable expansion.
Highlighting the importance of sustainability, the Chief Minister stressed that tourism development should go hand in hand with environmental protection. He said that fragile mountain ecosystems and natural landscapes must be preserved, and adventure tourism should be promoted in a manner that minimises ecological impact. Responsible tourism practices, waste management and community participation, he added, are key to maintaining the long-term viability of the sector.
Reaffirming the Government’s commitment, the Chief Minister stated that the administration is working towards creating a robust and enabling ecosystem for adventure tourism in Jammu and Kashmir. This includes strengthening physical infrastructure such as roads, connectivity, accommodation facilities and emergency response systems in potential adventure tourism zones. He said that improved infrastructure not only enhances tourist experience but also ensures safety and accessibility in remote areas.
The Chief Minister also laid strong emphasis on capacity-building and skill development, particularly for local youth. He said that the government is keen to promote skill-based training programmes in adventure sports, guiding, rescue operations, hospitality and tourism management. By equipping young people with relevant skills and certifications, the sector can generate meaningful employment while ensuring professional standards in service delivery.
He noted that adventure tourism holds significant potential for inclusive growth, as it can directly benefit local communities in rural and remote regions. Homestays, local guides, transport services and allied activities can provide supplementary income and help curb migration by creating livelihood opportunities at the grassroots level.
Speaking on policy support, the Chief Minister said that the government is committed to creating a conducive policy environment to attract investment and encourage private sector participation. Streamlined regulations, transparent licensing processes and promotional initiatives were highlighted as key measures to boost confidence among stakeholders. He added that collaboration between the government, tour operators and local communities is essential for sustainable tourism development.
The Chief Minister further said that hosting the ATOAI convention in Srinagar reflects the renewed confidence in Jammu and Kashmir as a safe and attractive destination. He observed that such national-level events play a vital role in showcasing the region’s tourism potential, strengthening industry linkages and opening new avenues for collaboration.
Delegates at the convention appreciated the government’s focus on sustainable and responsible tourism and expressed optimism about the future of adventure tourism in Jammu and Kashmir. The event also provided a platform for discussions on best practices, innovation, safety protocols and emerging trends in the adventure tourism sector.
The convention concluded with a shared vision to work collectively towards positioning Jammu and Kashmir prominently on the global adventure tourism map, while ensuring environmental stewardship, community participation and long-term economic benefits for the region.