Gulmarg: The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) J&K conducted a Capacity Building & Skills Training Workshop on Customer Handling for Tourist Service Providers in Gulmarg. This initiative aims to improve service quality and enhance the visitor experience in one of J&K’s premier tourism destinations.
The workshop was graced by Mr. Tariq Hussain Naik, Chief Executive Officer of the Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA), as the Chief Guest. Organized in partnership with the GDA and Kitab Mobility, the workshop was led by Ms. Ridha Rashid, founder of Hamdan Herbs.
During the event, Mr. Iqram Ali Shafiee, Vice Chairman, CII J&K UT Council and Managing Director, Shafiee Healthcare Pvt. Ltd., underscored CII’s ongoing commitment to developing human capital in the region. He stated, “CII has consistently worked to create opportunities for skills enhancement across sectors. The tourism and hospitality industry is crucial to J&K’s economy, and through initiatives like this, we aim to foster professionalism and excellence among local service providers.”
Ufair Ajaz Kitab, Convener, CII J&K Skills Development Panel and Managing Director, KM Group of Industries, emphasized the importance of structured skill development programs. He remarked, “Empowering local youth and service providers through targeted training strengthens the overall tourism ecosystem. CII’s collaboration with industry and government partners ensures that skill development remains relevant and impactful.”
Tariq Hussain Naik praised CII’s initiative, noting, “Workshops like these are essential for equipping our tourism stakeholders with the knowledge and attitude required for world-class hospitality. GDA is dedicated to supporting all initiatives that promote skill-building and sustainable tourism in Gulmarg.”
The workshop attracted members from various associations, including the ATV Association Gulmarg, ATV Association Tangmarg, Ski Association Gulmarg, Snow Bikes Association Gulmarg, Traders/Dealers Association Gulmarg, Photographers Association Gulmarg, Pony/Sledge Walla Association Gulmarg, and Tourist Guides Association Gulmarg, along with students and faculty from the Islamic University of Science and Technology, Awantipora.
The session concentrated on enhancing customer handling skills, improving communication and service standards, and fostering a culture of hospitality excellence within the region’s tourism workforce.
