Srinagar, Aug 24: The Maaji Deedar Group, an initiative by the Iconic Tour Operators of Kashmir (ITOK), held its maiden function today at RAMADA Encore here. This holistic friendship initiative, led by Chief Patron Showkat Ahmad Pakhtoon, brought together influential personalities from various sectors of Kashmir’s tourism industry to honor theirĀ contributions.
The event was attended by prominent figures, including Javed Tenga, President of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI); Mushtaq Chaya, Chairman of J&K Hoteliers Club; Gowhar Maqbool, President of the Kashmir Hotel and Restaurant Owners Federation (KHARA & KHAROF Combine); Manzoor Wangnoo, Chairman of the Nigeen Tourist Traders Association (NTTA) and Nigeen Lake Conservation Organization (NLCO); and Ghulam Rasool Siah, past Chairman of the Kashmir Houseboat Owners Association (KHBOA) and a well-known tour operator.
The event focused on the protection and preservation of Kashmir’s natural resources, with speakers emphasizing the importance of sustainable tourism practices. Following the discussions, several personalities were honored for their significant contributions to Kashmir’s tourism industry:
1. Manzoor A. Wangnoo was recognized for his efforts in restoring Kashmir’s water bodies, a service that benefits society at large.
2. Late Haji Abdul Khaliq Wangnoo was honored posthumously for his leadership in the tourism trade and hisĀ contribution to the industry. The award was received by his son, Yasin Wangnoo.
3. Late Haji Ghulam Mohammad Pakhtoon was posthumously honored for his leadership in the tourism trade and his contribution to Kashmir’s houseboat industry. The award was received by his son and ITOK’s Chief Patron, Showkat Pakhtoon.
4. Late Haji Ghulam Ahmad Siah was posthumously recognized as a distinguished entrepreneur in the tourism trade, with his award received by his son and ITOK’s Founder Member, Mohammad Ibrahim Siah.
5. Javed Aslam Khan was honored for his 47 years of experience andĀ contribution as a veteran in the tourism industry.
6. Late Mohammad Hanief Kawa, an unsung hero of Kashmir’s tourism trade, was honored posthumously for his dedicated service. The award was received by his close friend and ITOK Founder Member, Waseem Gosani.
7. Peer Abdul Majeed was recognized as an unsung hero for his contributions to leisure and adventure tourism in Kashmir.
8. Mohammad Shabaan Dunoo was also honored as an unsung hero for hisĀ contributions to adventure tourism in the region.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks extended to all the dignitaries and the management team of RAMADA Encore, particularly its Managing Director, Atif, for hosting the event with excellence.
Ather Yameen Narwari, Convener of Maaji Deedar Group, expressed gratitude to all participants for their support and contributions to making the event a success.
