Nishant Bhaiji
NEW DELHI: In a bold move, the Indian Government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced its decision to host the G20 Tourism Working Group meeting in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, from May 22 to May 24.
This will be the third time India will be hosting the G20 tourism meeting and the first time when the event will be held in the picturesque valley of J&K’s capital Srinagar.
The decision to host the G20 meeting in Srinagar, despite objections from neighbouring countries Pakistan and China, proves India’s determination to showcase the beauty and economic potential of the Jammu and Kashmir region to the world.
Sustainable tourism
The meeting is expected to attract global leaders and stakeholders in the tourism industry to discuss issues related to sustainable tourism and its role in boosting economic growth.
For Jammu and Kashmir, this will be a significant international event, the first since the region’s bifurcation into two Union Territories in August 2019 and the revocation of its special status under Article 370 of the Constitution. The G20 summit presents an opportunity for the region to showcase its potential as a tourism hub and to bolster its economy.
The announcement of the G20 summit in Srinagar is a positive development for the region as a whole, and it serves as a testament to India’s resolve to overcome political obstacles and promote economic growth and development.
Most appropriate time
The UT administration is leaving no stone unturned in ensuring a smooth and successful G20 Tourism Working Group meeting in Srinagar. The months of April-June have been selected as the most appropriate time to host the event, given the weather conditions in the region during this period. The administration is expecting over 100 non-ministerial representatives from G20 nations to participate in the three-day event.
The main venue for the meeting is the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre, which is located on the banks of Dal Lake. The venue is undergoing a comprehensive makeover, including an upgrade of its digital infrastructure, and refurbishing of its interior and exterior, at a cost of Rs. 7.5 crore. Final preparations for the event are underway, including multi-tier security arrangements and traffic diversions.
In addition to the discussions and deliberations during the G20 meeting, foreign delegates will also be taken on a sightseeing tour to some of the region’s most picturesque locales, such as Baramulla, Dachigam National Park, and Gulmarg, the popular ski resort.
The road from Srinagar to Gulmarg, the Narbal-Gulmarg stretch, is also being given a facelift to ensure a smooth travel experience for visitors. The Nehru Guest House and other huts in Chashmeshahi are being revamped to enhance the tourism experience in the region.
