Pathania for efforts to promote pilgrimage tourism in J&K

Jammu, Sep 22: MLA Udhampur East Ranbir Singh Pathania Monday called for strenuous efforts to promote pilgrimage tourism, being the backbone of Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism industry.

He also avowed that sustained efforts would be made to integrate tourism, healthcare and community development in the region. He was addressing devotees at various shrines across his assembly constituency, on the auspicious occasion of Navratri.

Speaking on the significance of pilgrimage tourism, he underlined that religious and pilgrimage tourism formed the backbone of Jammu and Kashmir tourism industry, which had immense potential in diverse areas such as adventure tourism, sightseeing, eco-tourism, and above all, spiritual tourism.

“Jammu and Kashmir is home to world-renowned pilgrimage sites - Shri Mata Vaishno Devi; Shri Amarnath Yatra; Machail Mata Yatra; Mansar Devsthan; Marhada Mata; Shri Bala Sundri Mata; Chountra Mata as well as the historic Pandav temples at Manwal. These sacred shrines are not just religious destinations but centres of spiritual rejuvenation, cultural heritage and community bonding. They act as a beacon of support for society, rekindling faith, values and traditions,” Pathania said.