Tourism Expansion to Boost Employment for Gurez Youth: CM Omar Abdullah
GUREZ: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reaffirmed his government’s commitment to the holistic development and upliftment of Gurez, emphasizing that the region remains a top priority for the administration. He was speaking at the valedictory ceremony of the two-day National Tribal Festival Gurez-2025, held in the scenic border village of Chorwan.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister praised the people of Gurez for their peaceful and resilient spirit. “Gurez stands as a beacon of harmony and strength. My government deeply values this spirit and is committed to ensuring the region’s progress across all sectors,” he said.
Underscoring the importance of connectivity, Abdullah announced ongoing efforts to expand mobile network coverage in Gurez to better integrate the region with the rest of the country.
Highlighting the untapped tourism potential of Gurez Valley, he urged residents to actively participate in maintaining the region’s natural beauty. “Gurez is blessed with stunning landscapes. While we pursue development and prosperity, we must also protect our unique cultural heritage and pristine environment,” he stressed. He noted that the growth of tourism would open up significant employment avenues, particularly for the youth.
Earlier in the day, the Chief Minister visited stalls exhibiting local produce, medicinal herbs, traditional foods, and handicrafts. Cultural troupes from Jammu & Kashmir, Assam, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat added vibrancy to the event with tribal dance performances.
As part of the celebration, he presented certificates of appreciation to women-led Self Help Groups for their entrepreneurial contributions.
Several dignitaries spoke at the event, including Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani; MLA Gurez Nazir Ahmad Gurezi; MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq; Additional Secretary of Tribal Affairs, Government of India; Secretary, Tribal Affairs (J&K); and the Director, Tribal Affairs.
Later, the Chief Minister inaugurated a polo match and flagged off a trekking expedition, promoting adventure tourism in the region. He also participated in a green initiative by planting saplings at the Tourist Reception Centre in Gurez.
Earlier that morning, Abdullah conducted a public grievance redressal camp at Wampora, Dawar, where residents from Chorwan, Kanzalwan, Tulail, Markote, and Bagtore voiced concerns about road and mobile connectivity, education infrastructure, banking services, ATMs, community bunkers, and job opportunities. The Chief Minister attentively heard the grievances and assured timely resolution.
He concluded by reaffirming his administration’s commitment to justice and equitable development. “Since the time of Sher-e-Kashmir, our mission has been to serve the people of Gurez. We understand the challenges faced here and are fully committed to addressing them,” he said.
