Budget 2026: Eco-friendly mountain trails in J&K, other Himalayan regions

Srinagar, Feb 01: In a push for critical changes to tourism patterns and sustainable tourism, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today announced plans to develop ecologically sustainable mountain trails in J&K, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. This was presented as part of the Union Budget 2026-27.

Finance Minister said that India has the potential and opportunity to offer world-class trekking and hiking experiences. She emphasized low-impact activities that integrate conservation with economic growth.

In J&K, tourism industry experts have long demanded focus towards responsible tourism. This, as per stakeholders, could revitalize the region's adventure economy with ecological safeguards.

This initiative is expected to develop Himalayas in India for potential global hub for trekking and hiking. However, the projects will be designed to preserve fragile ecosystems and boosting local economies. Focus will also on job creation in the tourism sector.

The eco-trails are a part of broader eco-tourism strategy and will be designed on patterns similar to developments in Araku Valley in the Eastern Ghats and Podhigai Malai in the Western Ghats. In Odisha, Karnataka, and Kerala too turtle nestling and birdwatching routes on similar lines have been developed along Pulikat Lake in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.