Srinagar, Feb 8: The Travel Agents Association of Kashmir (TAAK) has expressed concern over what it described as the neglect of the tourism sector in the recently presented Union Territory Budget, tabled by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in the Legislative Assembly.
In a statement issued on Saturday to Ziraat Times, TAAK President Farooq A. Kuthoo said the budget failed to make any substantial financial allocation for tourism, despite the sector being one of the principal pillars of Jammu and Kashmir’s economy.
Referring to the aftermath of the Baisaran incident, Kuthoo said Kashmir had witnessed one of the worst downturns in its tourism history, bringing the industry to a near standstill. He pointed out that despite the unprecedented losses suffered by tourism stakeholders, no bailout package or financial relief had been announced in the budget.
TAAK noted that the prolonged slump in tourism has also adversely affected several allied sectors, highlighting the industry’s role as a major driver of economic activity and employment in the region.
The association further expressed disappointment over the government’s failure to incorporate the budget recommendations submitted by the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCC&I), particularly those aimed at tourism revival and economic support.
Kuthoo added that while private stakeholders continue to invest significant resources in promotional and marketing efforts, the budget did not provide for any Market Development Assistance (MDA) schemes, as recommended by KCC&I, nor did it announce any concrete relief measures for tourism-related businesses.
