Srinagar, Aug 1: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday said that 1.27 crore tourists have visited Jammu and Kashmir so far and the number is likely to surpass the previous year's record.
Addressing a gathering at Charar-e-Sharief in Central Kashmir's Budgam district, he said that peace will return to Kashmir through the path of tourism only.
The LG said if religious tourism increases in Kashmir, a large number of people will visit here from all across the world.
“I had often said that development takes place when there is peace. Without peace there is no possibility of development anywhere”, he said.
Sinha said that he feels that people have come out of the turmoil and now markets remain open throughout the 365 days of the year and children are going to their schools and colleges regularly.
He said 1.27 crore tourists have visited Jammu and Kashmir this year so far. When more tourists will visit here the economy will increase.
The LG said the economy is much better today than before.
Taking to micro-blogging twitter handle, the LG office quoting Sinha said “feeling blessed to have visited Charar-e-Sharief & prayed for the wellbeing of our citizens. Sufi saint Shaikh-Ul-Aalam, also known as Nund Rishi's life is the best example of India's unity in diversity.
His teachings of brotherhood, love, harmony continue to inspire the world”.
He said had a productive discussion with public representatives & local residents on harnessing the tourism potential and giving a boost to spiritual tourism at Charar-e-Sharief.
Extensive deliberation was also held on infrastructure and modalities to address the immediate requirements.
Administration is committed to establish the branch of Shaikh-Ul-Aalam Centre for Multi-disciplinary Studies of University of Kashmir at Charar-e-Sharief, he added.
“It will spread his ideas & ideals of humanism, respect to all spiritual streams & motivate people to march towards the bright future, dedicate themselves for peace & development and to unlock the precious treasure house of our cultural heritage”, the LG said in another tweet.
He said on demands of restoration of Khanqah, directed the tourism department to work in close coordination with experts of NIT, analyse the detailed design, architectural drawings & restore the revered structure to its original glory.
The construction work on utilities was put on hold due to Court's order which has been vacated & the work will be completed soon. All other important works will be taken on priority, Sinha added.
