Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday launched the Kashmir Chapter of SKÅL International, a global organisation of tourism professionals, marking a key step toward enhancing Jammu and Kashmir’s international tourism outreach and collaboration.
The launch event, held in Srinagar, brought together tourism stakeholders, SKÅL leadership, and government officials, with the initiative expected to advance sustainable tourism and strengthen global partnerships in the region.
Speaking at the ceremony, Omar Abdullah said that the values embodied by SKÅL — good health, friendship, long life, and happiness — align closely with the spirit of Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism sector.
“SKÅL’s founding principles go beyond profit or day-to-day concerns. These are the basic aspirations of human life,” he said. “Many in our tourism industry may be competitors, but they remain friends. This reflects SKÅL’s philosophy of ‘business with friends.’”
Highlighting the government’s focus on sustainability, the Chief Minister said responsible tourism is essential for long-term growth.
“If tourism is not responsible and sustainable, it will not last. A cornerstone of our recent work has been to make tourism more responsible and more sustainable,” he noted.
Omar Abdullah also announced that the government is planning to develop nine new tourism destinations in Jammu & Kashmir, under a major project centred on environmentally responsible development and community participation.
“Tourism, or any industry that does not benefit locals, cannot survive,” he said.
Reflecting on the resilience of the people of Jammu & Kashmir, he added, “Winters last only for a few months; after that, snow melts and spring arrives. My effort is that this spring lasts for years.”
Acknowledging past disruptions in the tourism sector, he expressed optimism that the new SKÅL partnership would contribute to sustained growth.
“The relationship formalised today will benefit both SKÅL and the tourism industry in Kashmir,” he said, thanking the organisation for choosing the region for its new chapter.
The event was attended by MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq, SKÅL National President Sanjeev Mehra, Director SKÅL NSN Mohan, industry stakeholders, and senior government officials.
The ceremony concluded with the oath-taking of board and founder members, followed by pinning and certificate presentations.
