Hot Air Balloon Launch

KM Desk
“G20 event is set to showcase Jammu and Kashmir's tourism to the world”: Dr Syed Abid Rashid
In the run-up of the forthcoming third G20 Tourism Working Group meeting to be held in Srinagar, Secretary Tourism, Dr Syed Abid Rasheed Shah kick started a range of captivating tourism-related activities aimed at showcasing the mesmerizing charm and immense potential of Jammu and Kashmir here on May 12 at Zabarwan Park.
The event began with the exciting launch of a hot air balloon, an enchanting addition to the attractions available for tourists on the serene shores of the world famous Dal Lake, nestled beneath the majestic Zabarwan mountain range. Besides, Secretary Tourism inaugurated a cyclothon, the Zabarwan Trek, and a cleanliness drive, all designed to engage and delight tourists and locals alike.
Director of Tourism Kashmir, Raja Yaqoob Farooq, Deputy Directors of Tourism Kashmir, senior officers, and enthusiastic school children from government-run schools were present on the occasion.
Addressing the gathering, Secretary Tourism, Syed Abid Rashid Shah emphasized the immense opportunities presented by the upcoming G20 Tourism Working Group meeting, stating that the event is an opportunity for all of us to promote Jammu and Kashmir Tourism on a global scale and showcase our beautiful region to the world.
“It has the potential to increase international and domestic tourist footfall,” he said.
Envisioning the significant economic impact, he further added that the G20 event is set to propel Jammu and Kashmir's economy by leaps and bounds, benefiting sectors such as handicrafts, handloom, trade, travel, and, of course, tourism.
“With over 150 foreign and national delegates participating, this event provides an unparalleled global platform for Jammu and Kashmir to demonstrate its potential, with the delegates acting as ambassadors for our region,” he added.
He also commended Director Tourism Kashmir and his team for their relentless efforts in organizing these remarkable activities.
He expressed his appreciation for their commitment to creating additional attractions for tourists, with initiatives like the hot air balloon ride further enhancing the allure of the picturesque city of Srinagar.
Secretary, Tourism continued that the visiting G20 delegates from various countries to Jammu and Kashmir will serve as ambassadors to promote J&K as global tourist destination.
Speaking to The Kashmir Magazine at the inauguration of a hot air balloon and trekking expedition at Zabarwan Park, Secretary Tourism J&K said the G20 presents a valuable opportunity to showcase Jammu and Kashmir as a leading global tourist destination. “We anticipate that the delegates visiting J&K will assume the role of ambassadors, actively promoting the Union Territory as a remarkable global tourist destination,” he said.
“The event will provide us with an excellent opportunity to promote and showcase J&K on a global level in a positive manner,” he said, adding that the introduction of the hot air balloon at Zabarwan Park today adds an exciting attraction for tourists visiting Srinagar.
“All the events organized by the tourism department are integral to the G-20 event, promising a significant positive impact on the tourism industry. The enthusiastic participation of thousands, including school children and youth, in today's event further exemplifies a heartening gesture,” he added.
He said such events become imperative to attract visitors and promote tourism. “The launch of hot air balloon is an added attraction. Cyclothon which was organised today is a prelude to G20 event. Also good number of girl students participated in adventure trek. All such events are run up to the G20 event,” Secretary Tourism added.
He also added due to conduct of such events all stakeholders and allied industries will be benefited. “Today a good number of youth participated in the event which vindicates public participation and warmth of people into G20 event. We are eagerly waiting for the delegates to shower the love and hospitality for which Kashmir is known for,” he said.
“Tourism influences directly or indirectly every citizen of J&K. It will be a great opportunity for us to showcase J&K to the whole world. I hope the delegates be the ambassadors of J&K across the world to promote UT as global tourist destination,” Secretary Tourism said.
G20 serves as platform to foster J&K’s positive image among international community: Director Tourism
Earlier speaking at the launch of tourism related activities, Director Tourism Kashmir, Raja Yaqoob Farooq said that the event marked a significant step towards enhancing the region's tourism offerings.
He said that the series of pre-G20 activities in Srinagar are not only set to captivate visitors but also serve as a testament to the vibrant and inviting atmosphere of Jammu and Kashmir.
“As the G20 event approaches, the region eagerly awaits the opportunity to showcase its unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality to a global audience,” he added.
He expressed his excitement for the upcoming G-20 summit scheduled for the last week of May and said that the summit will witness the visit of ambassadors from various countries, who will be invited to experience the true essence of Jammu and Kashmir – its breathtaking beauty, vibrant culture, exquisite handicrafts, and more.
Speaking exclusively to The Kashmir Magazine, Director Tourism Kashmir, Raja Yaqoob Farooq said that the importance of portraying a positive image of Kashmir, one that moves beyond the shadows of the past three decades. “With the G-20 summit serving as a platform, the government aims to showcase the UT's potential and foster a positive mindset among the international community,” he added.
He said a key focus of the government’s agenda is the promotion of eco-tourism in Kashmir. He stressed the significance of prioritizing environmentally friendly tourism practices, ensuring that the natural surroundings are protected and conserved for future generations. With the environment taking centre stage, the J&K Tourism Department has been actively working on extensive preparations for the G20 summit under the guidance of J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha,” he added.
Yaqoob said an event held earlier in the day, where school-going children actively participated and gained awareness about the upcoming G-20 summit. This initiative aimed to instill a sense of national pride and identity among the young minds, further emphasizing the significance of the event for the entire nation, he added.
He further said that the tourism department along with J&K government is determined to present Jammu and Kashmir as a land of unparalleled beauty, rich cultural heritage, and limitless opportunities for sustainable tourism.