Srinagar, July 30: The Government of India has reiterated its commitment to the planned and sustainable development of unexplored tourist destinations in Kupwara district, including Lolab Valley, Bangus Valley, Keran, Machil and Teetwal, through promotion of eco-tourism, border tourism, adventure tourism and community based tourism.

Replying to a question in the Rajya Sabha today, Union Minister for Tourism Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said that while development and promotion of tourism is primarily the responsibility of the State Government/UT Administration, the Ministry of Tourism extends financial assistance under schemes such as Swadesh Darshan, Swadesh Darshan 2.0, Challenge Based Destination Development (CBDD) and PRASHAD for creation of tourism infrastructure and amenities.
The Minister informed that the Department of Tourism, UT Administration of Jammu & Kashmir has undertaken and proposed infrastructure development projects in Kupwara district involving an estimated investment of more than ₹58 crore. The projects include development and upgradation of Tourist Facilitation Centres, Tourist Reception Centres, tourist huts, guest houses, interpretation centres, cafeterias, public convenience facilities and other eco-tourism infrastructure at destinations such as Teetwal, Keran, Karnah, Machil, Lolab, Bangus, Zachaldara, Langate and Handwara.
The House was informed that the UT Administration has also undertaken promotional initiatives including celebration of International Yoga Day, organization of Familiarization (FAM) Tours to Keran, the Annual Lolab-Bangus Festival, promotion of border destinations and participation in national and international tourism fairs to position Kupwara as a major border and eco-tourism destination.
Shekhawat said these initiatives are aimed at strengthening tourism infrastructure, improving visitor experience, generating local employment and promoting sustainable eco tourism and border tourism in the district.
The Minister further informed that the Ministry of Tourism promotes tourism destinations and experiences across the country, including the Jammu & Kashmir region, through various initiatives in important and potential markets. He also stated that Ministry schemes encourage State Governments and UT Administrations to undertake consultations with local communities and stakeholders while focusing on capacity building and local entrepreneurship, particularly among youth.
Details of tourism projects sanctioned by the Ministry in Jammu & Kashmir under the Swadesh Darshan and PRASHAD schemes, including projects covering Kupwara under the Himalayan Circuit were also shared.