Srinagar, Aug 1:The Union Government has informed Parliament that while the development of unexplored tourist destinations in Kupwara is primarily the responsibility of the J&K administration, the Centre is supporting the district through multiple tourism schemes aimed at strengthening infrastructure, improving visitor experience and promoting border and eco tourism.
Replying to an unstarred question by Rajya Sabha member Chowdhury Mohammad Ramzan, Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said the Ministry of Tourism provides financial assistance under schemes such as Swadesh Darshan 2.0, Challenge Based Destination Development and PRASHAD. These schemes support tourism infrastructure and amenities based on project proposals submitted by states and Union Territories.
The minister said the J&K administration has committed itself to the planned and sustainable development of emerging destinations in Kupwara, including Lolab Valley, Bangus Valley, Keran, Machil and Teetwal. The tourism strategy focuses on eco tourism, border tourism, adventure tourism and community based tourism.
According to the reply, the Tourism Department has proposed infrastructure projects worth more than Rs 58 crore in Kupwara. The investment covers the construction and upgrading of Tourist Facilitation Centres, Tourist Reception Centres, tourist huts, guest houses, interpretation centres, cafeterias and public convenience facilities across Teetwal, Keran, Karnah, Machil, Lolab, Bangus, Zachaldara, Langate and Handwara.
The Centre also shared details of individual projects sanctioned in recent years. A Tourist Facilitation Centre at Teetwal was approved during 2023 to 24 at a cost of Rs 80 lakh. During 2024 to 25, Rs 97 lakh was sanctioned for developing Keran as an offbeat destination with toilet complexes, signages, solid waste management, shelter sheds, gazebos, selfie points, illumination, hiking trails, benches and a children’s recreation zone. Another Rs 11 lakh was approved towards land compensation for tourism assets in Kupwara.
