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J&K ideal destination for Adventure Tourism: CM

Commends ATOAI for supporting J&K Tourism, Appreciates resilience of J&K’s Tourism players

SRINAGAR, DECEMBER 17: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today addressed the 17th Annual Convention of the Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) at the Sher-i- Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC), emphasising that Jammu and Kashmir is ideally placed as a destination for adventure tourism activities.

The 4-day national event being held in Srinagar from December 17 to 20, 2025, is aimed at positioning Jammu & Kashmir as a leading global destination for adventure tourism.


The event was attended by Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Gulmarg Farooq Ahmad Shah, Additional Secretary & DG Tourism Government of India Suman Billa, GoC 31 Sub Area, Major General Abhijit Mitra, President ATOAI, Ajeet Bajaj, Head J&K Chapter ATOAI Rauf Tramboo, Director Tourism Kashmir Qamar Sajad, Director SKICC Haris Ahmad Handoo, Director Tourism Jammu, Dr. Vikas Gupta, former Directors of Tourism Mehmood Ahmad Shah and G N Itoo and other senior officers of Police and Civil Administration, Tourism Department, besides ATOAI delegates and large number of adventure tourism lovers, ATOAI officials and other stakeholders.

Addressing the inaugural session of the ATOAI convention, the Chief Minister lauded the efforts of ATOAI for organizing its 17th Annual Convention at Srinagar, aimed at promoting responsible, safe, sustainable & resilient adventure tourism in Jammu and Kashmir.

The Chief Minister highlighted that Jammu and Kashmir has remained pioneer in adventure tourism notably, in skiing mountaineering, trekking etc all across the globe.

Chief Minister emphasised that technology integration is essential to promote and realise advanced adventure tourism potential in Jammu and Kashmir. He laid stress on introducing artificial snow so as to start skiing early and to prolong duration of skiing calender in Gulmarg which would also help in mitigating the effects of climate change resulting in lesser and delayed snowfalls.

The Chief Minister underlined that the Jammu and Kashmir Government is taking all necessary measures to ensure the continued growth of the tourism sector despite challenges faced during the current season. He also appreciated the leadership of ATOAI for providing Jammu and Kashmir an opportunity to host the prestigious national convention.

The Chief Minister expressed gratitude to the Union Tourism Minister for extending unwavering support to the tourism sector of Jammu and Kashmir.

CM said that climate change and global warming were real issues which need to be talked about and we need to take steps to conserve our environment for posterity. He said that we won't be able to showcase Gulmarg without snow and our glaciers have also started receding at an alarming rate.

CM said that white water rafting, mountaineering, trekking, paragliding, rock climbing are key adventure tourism activities which can be promoted but cautioned operators to ensure high standards of safety and quality equipment to make adventure tourism safe and comfortable. He said that adventure tourism opens up new avenues of tourism in J&K and expressed hope that partnering with ATOAI will help to develop this sector in Jammu and Kashmir.

During the inaugural ceremony, the Chief Minister launched the Adventure Tourism Roadmap and Toolkit for Jammu and Kashmir and presented ATOAI Awards to achievers in the field of adventure tourism.

Earlier, the Chief Minister inaugurated the Adventure Tourism Exhibition at SKICC and inspected various stalls set up by different states across the country. He also participated in a hot air balloon ride, marking a symbolic push towards promoting diverse adventure tourism activities in Jammu and Kashmir.

On the occasion, ATOAI President Ajeet Bajaj presented a piece of stone, collected from the summit of Mount Everest as a special souvenir to CM Omar Abdullah

Towards the end of the inaugural function, the Chief Minister presented and felicitated the awardees, including recipients of the ATOAI Awards, the Adventure Tourism Leadership Award, and Special Recognition by the Chief Guest. On the occasion, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also launched the J&K Adventure Tourism Roadmap.


The world is experiencing transformative changes driven by cutting-edge technologies and schools must focus on using new tools to aid creativity, curiosity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills: LG

Schools should have a single aim-create unique individuals for future challenges: LG Sinha

JAMMU, DECEMBER 10: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha on Wednesday called upon the schools and educational institutions to have a single aim: “Create unique individuals for future challenges”.

“The world is experiencing transformative changes driven by cutting-edge technologies and schools must focus on using new tools to aid creativity, curiosity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

He was speaking at the 40th Anniversary celebration of Lawrence Public School at Abhinav Theatre in Jammu.

In his address, the Lieutenant Governor applauded the legacy, enduring values and efforts of Lawrence Public School to holistic learning and shaping modern leaders. He said the school carrying forward its core values has produced successful alumni, who are proudly serving the nation.

The Lieutenant Governor said the critical thinking and curiosity is the greatest strength of students. He urged the teachers and parents to allow students to study based on their interests, passions, and abilities to develop talent without pressure.



“Educational Institutions must pay special attention to four key aspects: Access, Equity, Quality, and Outcome. The dual goals for educators are to make students college-ready and future-ready and to familiarize them with continuously evolving skill sets, transforming them into 21st-century global citizens,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor stated that the introduction of Artificial Intelligence will revolutionize the classroom, enabling teachers to use data analysis to understand student abilities and provide better mentoring.

He said, the hybrid classroom model, leveraging digital platforms, will ensure technology-driven education is accessible to all.

“The role of teachers will shift from being mere information providers to mentors. Their core responsibility will be to instil necessary skills, creativity, and give children dreams and determination. This also includes introducing them to their traditions, language, values, love, compassion, non-violence, and brotherhood,” he further said.

On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor felicitated women achievers for their significant contributions across various fields.

Shri Satish Sharma, Minister for Youth Services & Sports, Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Science & Technology, Information Technology, ARI & Trainings; Wg. Cdr MM Joshi (Retd.), Chairman, Lawrence Public School; Shri Manish Joshi, Managing Director; Ms Manya Joshi, Trustee; Ms Shivani Joshi, Principal of School, teachers, students and parents were present.

Ms. Devyani Rana, Member of Legislative Assembly, Nagrota; Ms. Priya Sethi, former Minister of State; Padma Shri Dr SP Varma, President, Gandhi Global Family, J&K; Lt Gen RK Sharma (Retd.), President, J&K Ex-Services League; heads of various institutions and senior officials also attended the celebrations.


Construction of completely damaged 344 homes in Kathua and 105 homes in Samba will be financed by HRDS-India

Unity is Strength. Collective action can surmount challenges which appear unconquerable and we have witnessed this spirit during the crisis in August: LG

Welfare of people of J&K is our top priority. We are committed to serve them and fulfil all their aspirations: LG Sinha

This project for construction of new homes for affected families manifests our commitment to people and inclusive development of J&K: LG

Better infrastructure, education, health, employment, equal opportunities and social justice have always been my priorities: LG Sinha

Under the guidance of Hon'ble PM Shri Narendra Modi, we have scripted a new history with all-round and inclusive development: LG

·        Lieutenant Governor dedicates Indoor Sports Stadium to the youth of Kathua

JAMMU, DECEMBER 9: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha on Tuesday visited Kathua and Samba and laid the foundation stone for the construction of 449 new homes for families affected due to recent natural calamities in the districts.

A total of 344 houses that were completely devastated in Kathua will be constructed at a cost of Rs. 34 crore. In Samba, 105 houses damaged during the recent flash floods will be rebuilt at a cost of Rs. 10.50 crore.



The construction costs for these 3-bedroom houses will be financed by an NGO, High-range Rural Development Society (HRDS India), which will also ensure modern amenities and facilities for home owners.

Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor commended HRDS India for its noble endeavour and its support to the UT administration in ensuring dignified and secure housing for the affected families in Jammu and Kashmir.

“Unity is strength. Collective action can surmount challenges which appear unconquerable and we have witnessed this spirit during the crisis in August this year. Welfare of people of J&K is our top priority. We are committed to serve them and fulfil all their aspirations,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

He said the project for construction of new homes for affected families being completed with the help of HRDS-India, manifests our commitment to people and inclusive development of J&K.  He also directed the district administration for inclusion of all the genuine beneficiaries, if anyone is left out.

The first phase of the initiative involves construction of 1,500 state-of-the-art, three-bedroom pre-fabricated “Smart Houses.” Designed for modern living and efficiency, these technologically advanced homes offer superior resilience against future climate challenges and include facilities such as boundary walls and cowsheds. The construction of these houses is slated for completion within six months from the commencement of foundation work.

HRDS India will provide free life insurance coverage for the next 15 years and free annual health check-ups for all family members. The NGO will also cover the maintenance of the houses for the next five years.

The Lieutenant Governor spoke on the rapid transformation taking place across the two districts of Kathua, Samba and various sectors in the UT of J&K following massive push post 2019. He stated that sincere efforts have been made to improve the quality of life of every citizen in Kathua and Samba.

He called upon the citizens and all stakeholders to discharge their responsibility in ensuring that the pace of development does not slow down and benefits of development reach the last person in the queue.

“Better infrastructure, education, health, employment, equal opportunities and social justice have always been my priorities. Under the guidance of Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, we have scripted a new history with all-round and inclusive development,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor also expressed gratitude to the district administration, police, army, CAPFs, Disaster Response forces, emergency responders, civil society members, and everyone involved in the relief and rescue operations.

An assistance amounting to Rs. 8.22 crore and Rs.1.38 Crore  was respectively disbursed to the affected families in Kathua and Samba.

During his visit to Kathua, the Lieutenant Governor inaugurated and dedicated Indoor Sports Stadium to the youth.

The District Administration Kathua has partnered with corporate entities to elevate sports infrastructure and youth engagement through the construction of a state-of-the-art Indoor Sports Stadium, complemented by outdoor basketball and volleyball courts.

 Swami Atma Nambi, President, HRDS India; Col. Mahan Singh (Retd.) Chairman, DDC Kathua; Shri Keshav Dutt Sharma, Chairman, DDC, Samba ; Members of Legislative Assembly; Shri Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Shri Nalin Prabhat, DGP; Shri Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu; Shri Shiv Kumar Sharma, DIG Jammu-Samba-Kathua Range; Ms Ayushi Sudan, Deputy Commissioner Samba; Shri Rajesh Sharma, Deputy Commissioner Kathua, members of HRDS India, senior officials of police and civil administration, prominent citizens and people from all walks of life attended the foundation stone laying ceremony.  


Major heritage, lakefront and urban mobility projects planned across Jammu, Srinagar, Anantnag

JAMMU, DECEMBER 09: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today reviewed the projects of the Housing & Urban Development Department being implemented under the scheme, Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI).

The meeting was attended by Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Principal Secretary Finance Santosh D. Vaidya,, Commissioner Secretary, H&UDD, Mandeep Kaur, Deputy Commissioner Anantnag Fakhruddin Hamid, Commissioner, Jammu Municipal Corporation & CEO, Jammu Smart City Limited Devansh Yadav, Commissioner, Srinagar Municipal Corporation & CEO, Srinagar Smart City Limited Fazlul Haseeb, Vice Chairman Lakes & Conservation Development Authority, Director General Budget Mohammad Sultan Malik and other concerned officers.

While reviewing the proposals, the Chief Minister observed that the projects have the potential to significantly improve urban liveability, strengthen heritage conservation and boost tourism in urban centres. He emphasised that all works must be people-centric, environmentally sustainable and aligned with long-term urban planning goals.

He also directed that local legislators and stakeholders be taken on board at the planning and implementation stages to ensure smooth execution. He instructed that periodic progress reports be submitted to his office and any bottlenecks be flagged and resolved in a time-bound manner.

Earlier, the respective CEOs of the Smart City Limiteds presented detailed updates on projects being taken up under the SASCI Scheme funded by the Government of India.

The CEO, Jammu Smart City Limited, informed that several projects are being undertaken to address issues such as heritage conservation, traffic congestion, drainage, unorganised vending, unplanned utilities and underdeveloped heritage corridors. To ensure sustainability, a series of integrated urban interventions have been proposed under the Scheme.

He further informed that revitalisation of the CBD and the historic core is a key component of the plan. The proposed interventions include construction of multi-level car parking facilities at congested locations such as Parade Ground, Mubarak Mandi, Jewel Chowk, Gandhi Nagar–Warehouse and Tanga Stand–Gumat Bazaar. Other projects include utility upgradation and beautification works, development of a Temple Corridor connecting Bawe Mata, Har Ki Pauri and Mahamaya, construction of a model vegetable mandi at the Sabzi Mandi, a shopping complex at Indira Chowk and a clock tower (Ghanta Ghar) at Parade Chowk.

CEO, Srinagar Smart City Limited, presented the proposed neighbourhood development and revitalisation of the Nigeen Lake waterfront. He informed that a 4.5-km-long Nigeen Lake frontage will be developed with continuous public access, development and upgradation of ghats, upgradation of Cherry Park and comprehensive redevelopment of the precinct in the area which would significantly enhance public amenities and tourism potential.

He also briefed the meeting about restoration of Qalai Andar (Walled City of Srinagar), including improvement of public spaces, conservation of heritage structures, creation of green spaces and restoration of key gateways such as Kathi Darwaza, Sangeen Darwaza and Bacchi Darwaza, along with improved drainage and pedestrian-friendly pathways. Public spaces at Devi Angan will also be enhanced.

He further apprised the meeting about the proposed Greenfield development at Anantnag near KP Road, including riverfront development with an eco-park, city park, cycle tracks, pathways, gazebos, kiosks and construction of a smart library near Aaripat Nallah.



JAMMU, DECEMBER 08: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha on Monday interacted with veterans of Armed Forces at Lok Bhavan Jammu.

He expressed gratitude to the Armed Forces and paid tributes to the martyrs. He stated that the nation will always remain indebted to the sacrifices made by the soldiers.

The Lieutenant Governor made generous contributions towards the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund. He said the Armed Forces Flag Day, which was observed on 07th December 2025, reminds the citizens of the nation that the well-being of the Armed Forces Personnel is the collective responsibility of the nation and every individual must contribute to support the Armed Forces who safeguard the integrity of the Nation.

The Lieutenant Governor appealed to the people to contribute towards the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund. He said that the fund will be used in the welfare of service personnel, their families, and ex-servicemen and their families.

Brig. Pankaj Chib (Retd), Director Sainik Welfare Department; Shri Chandraker Bharti, Principal Secretary, Home; veterans and officials of Sainik Welfare Department including Col BS Sambyal, (Retd.), Col Manjit Singh Bhau (Retd.) Wg Cdr Tirath Singh (Retd.), Capt (IN) Kapil Sharma (Retd.), Shri Tanvir Singh, Shri Pawan Anand, Shri Jagbir Singh, Shri Subash Chander and Ms Anshu Dogra were present.


350 houses in Jammu that were completely damaged will be built free of cost with the help of HRDS India. These 3-bedroom houses are efficient, modern, resilient and technologically advanced

I am committed to bring a monumental change in the lives of the poor: LG Sinha

In the past 5 years, lakhs of poor have been benefitted and infrastructure in backward and poor regions were upgraded. The rapid development of Jammu is unprecedented and we have achieved strong growth trajectory despite numerous challenges: LG

JAMMU, DECEMBER 08: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha on Monday laid the foundation stone for construction of new houses for families affected due to recent natural calamities and unprovoked Pakistani shelling during Operation Sindoor, in Jammu District.


350 houses in Jammu district will be constructed at a cost of Rs 35 crore. The construction cost of these new three-bedroom pre-fabricated Smart Houses will be borne by the High-range Rural Development Society (HRDS India), an NGO.

In his address, the Lieutenant Governor expressed gratitude to HRDS-India for the noble initiative in supporting affected families in Jammu Kashmir.  He highlighted that the houses for the affected families are being built without spending a single penny from the government treasury.

Construction of these three-bedroom pre-fabricated Smart Houses is slated for completion within six months from the start of the foundation work. The houses are designed to be efficient, modern, resilient, and technologically advanced and will include specific facilities like cowsheds.

In addition to building the homes, HRDS India is providing a substantial welfare package to the beneficiary families. HRDS India will provide Free life insurance coverage for all family members for the next 15 years, free annual health checkups for all family members and coverage for maintenance of the houses for the next 5 years.

The Lieutenant Governor reiterated his commitment to bring a monumental change in the lives of the poor.

“In the past 5 years, lakhs of poor have been benefitted and infrastructure in backward and poor regions were upgraded. The rapid development of Jammu is unprecedented and we have achieved a strong growth trajectory despite numerous challenges.

It is our constant effort to develop Jammu, the sacred city of temples, into an inclusive urban centre. Concrete steps taken for all-round development have led to the realization of the dream of poverty alleviation, social justice, and equal opportunities for all,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

He stated that a new era of accelerated economic development, and social transformation has ushered in the region.

“We have achieved a massive scale of project completion in a short span. These projects have significantly strengthened Jammu's urban infrastructure and citizen-centric services, enhancing mobility through modern amenities and streamlined civic facilities, and improved urban aesthetics,” he said.

The Lieutenant Governor lauded the exceptional coordination and dedication displayed by district administration and various agencies in the immediate relocation of affected population to safe places and ensuring their continued care in the wake of natural calamity. 

He praised the swift and effective response from the Divisional and district administration, police, army, CAPFs, Disaster Response forces, emergency responders, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, civil society members, and volunteers during the rescue and relief operations.

A total of 4,309 beneficiaries in Jammu district received assistance, and compensation amounting to Rs. 8.22 crore was distributed to those affected.

Ex-gratia and Government job was provided to the next of kin of a civilian who tragically lost his life during the unprovoked firing by Pakistan during Operation Sindoor, he further said.

The Lieutenant Governor also interacted with the beneficiaries and reaffirmed the commitment of the Government of India and UT administration for the complete rehabilitation of affected families.

The beneficiaries in Jammu also include 23 families affected by landslides in Rah Salyote village. District administration has been providing food and temporary accommodation to these families for the past three months.

Swami Atma Nambi, President, HRDS India; Shri Bharat Bhushan, Chairman, District Development Council, Jammu; Members of Legislative Assembly; Shri Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Shri Nalin Prabhat, DGP; Shri Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu; Shri Bhim Sen Tuti, IGP Jammu; Shri Shiv Kumar Sharma, DIG Jammu-Samba-Kathua Range; Dr Rakesh Minhas, Deputy Commissioner Jammu, members of HRDS India, senior officials of police and civil administration, prominent citizens and people from all walks of life attended the foundation stone laying ceremony.