A parliamentary panel is scheduled to visit Kashmir in the first week of September to promote tourism and restore public confidence in Pahalgam following the recent terrorist attack, government sources said.
Under the directive of the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Parliamentary Committee on Tourism and Commerce will visit the sites of the attacks in Pahalgam and Ladakh to pay homage to the victims. In addition, members of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs will also visit Kashmir, a trip earlier postponed due to the Pahalgam attack.
The attack has cast a long shadow over Kashmir, where tourism is the backbone of the economy, already suffering from financial constraints. Both the state and central governments, however, remain cautiously optimistic as tourist arrivals show gradual improvement.
Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, in an informal interaction with journalists, revealed that 18,000 rooms are being prepared for the upcoming tourism season. He noted that while domestic tourists are returning, foreign visitors remain hesitant. A recent two-day conference with ministry officials explored strategies to boost arrivals, with the government seeking cooperation from opposition parties as well.
During their September visit, the committee members will not only pay tributes at attack sites but also engage with officials, local business owners, and hoteliers to address concerns.
Highlighting Bengal’s solidarity with Kashmir, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee promptly sent a Trinamool Congress delegation after the Pahalgam attack. She later met with J\&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, assuring support and encouraging Bengalis to visit Kashmir.
According to central government sources, an interim relief package and a larger revival plan for tourism and small traders may soon be announced. The government is also considering encouraging corporate houses to hold meetings in Pahalgam to project confidence in security arrangements.
Renuka Chowdhury, a member of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Commerce, said: “Tourism in Kashmir has collapsed after the attack. This committee’s meeting is crucial to reassure people that the Indian state is present, sensitive, and committed to reviving the economy.”