Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Aug 21: Expressing satisfaction over successful conclusion of Amarnath Yatra this year, Jammu Tourist Trade People Federation has asked the Government to take all possible measures for further promoting pilgrimage tourism in J&K.
“Keeping in view the Uttrakhand tragedy and attempts by some anti-national elements, the number of Amarnath pilgrims this year was satisfactory and an encouraging sign for the State, particularly the people associated with tourism and the annual yatra, said Mahesh Padha, president of the Federation while talking to media persons, here today.
He also lauded the administration and Shri Amarnath Shrine Board for making adequate arrangements for the visiting pilgrims resulting into smooth and successful yatra this year. “Unlike the previous year, when a big number of pilgrims died enroute the holy cave shrine because of different reasons, yatra this year was more successful and better managed and credit for the same goes to administration,” he explained.
Stressing the need for further promoting pilgrimage tourism in J&K for creating more employment opportunities and boosting State economy, Mr Padha said that the elements who talk of limiting the Yatra number and duration were anti-people. “Government must expose these elements and take stern action against them,” he said.
Mr Padha also claimed encouraging response to the Publicity and Information Centers by the Jammu Tourist Trade People Federation at the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas for the visiting Amarnath pilgrims. “Information regarding shrines and tourist spots in Jammu was provided to the pilgrims and the results were encouraging,” he said and added that the Federation would continue its efforts to suggest innovative measures for promoting tourism in the State.
Senior vice-president of the Federation, Shivdarshan Singh and joint secretary Jyot Singh were also present in the press conference.
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