Congress MP and Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs, Shashi Tharoor, has called for renewed efforts to strengthen tourism in Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing the importance of normalcy and economic growth in the Union Territory. His remarks came during a visit by the parliamentary panel to Jammu as part of a multi-day review of strategic, diplomatic, and administrative issues in Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
The committee interacted with officials from the Regional Passport Office and representatives of the Ministry of External Affairs during its visit. Members reviewed the functioning of passport services and discussed issues related to border regions, security, and public administration. Tharoor said the delegation’s visit was aimed at understanding key external affairs-related concerns, including India’s relations with Pakistan and China, as well as the functioning of passport services in the region.
Tourism and Normalcy in Focus
Speaking to reporters, Tharoor highlighted Jammu and Kashmir’s immense tourism potential and expressed hope that more visitors would travel to the region. He noted that the natural beauty of the Union Territory continues to attract tourists from across India and abroad and stressed that sustained peace and smooth functioning of public life are essential for the tourism sector to flourish.
The Congress leader also praised the role of Border Security Force (BSF) personnel, describing their contribution to national security as commendable. He suggested that more Indians should visit border areas to better understand the dedication and sacrifices of security forces protecting the nation’s frontiers.
Wider Review of Border Issues
The parliamentary panel is scheduled to visit Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, and Kargil during its tour. Members are expected to receive detailed briefings from military and civil authorities on developments relating to India-Pakistan and India-China relations, particularly in strategically sensitive border regions.
The visit assumes significance amid ongoing discussions on regional development, security, and connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir. Besides reviewing diplomatic and border-related issues, the committee has also raised concerns over delays in passport issuance and has sought measures to improve service delivery for residents of the Union Territory.
With tourism remaining a key pillar of the local economy, Tharoor’s call for greater visitor engagement and continued normalcy is expected to add momentum to efforts aimed at strengthening Jammu and Kashmir’s recovery and growth trajectory.
