Omar Abdullah Unveils Tourism Vision for 2026, Pushes Digital Outreach and Skill Development in Kashmir

Launch of tourism calendars, new Kashmir Tourism website, and skiing courses signals renewed focus on branding, infrastructure, and youth employment

Jammu, Jan 06: In a move aimed at strengthening Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism revival and global outreach, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday unveiled the 2026 calendars of the Tourism Department and the Jammu & Kashmir Cable Car Corporation (JKCCC) at the Civil Secretariat in Jammu. The event marked more than a ceremonial launch, as it underscored the government’s broader strategy to reposition tourism as a key economic driver for the Union Territory.

The newly released calendars showcase some of the most prominent tourist destinations and tourism-related infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir, offering a visual journey through the region’s diverse landscapes—from snow-clad mountains and ski resorts to cable car projects and emerging destinations. Congratulating the departments involved, the Chief Minister said such initiatives play an important role in shaping perceptions and enhancing the visibility of Jammu and Kashmir as a premier tourism destination.

“These calendars are not merely annual publications; they are visual narratives of Jammu and Kashmir’s natural beauty and evolving tourism infrastructure,” Omar Abdullah remarked. He added that consistent and creative promotion is essential to sustain tourist interest and confidence, particularly at a time when the tourism sector is gradually regaining momentum after years of disruptions.

Digital Push to Boost Tourism Outreach

In a significant step toward modernising tourism promotion, the Chief Minister also launched the officialwebsite of the Directorate of Tourism, Kashmir. Designed as a comprehensive digital platform, the website aims to publicise tourism events, highlight destinations, maintain digital archives, and provide up-to-date information for tourists, travel stakeholders, and investors.

The portal integrates important links to allied organisations, including Jammu Tourism, the Jammu & Kashmir Tourism Development Corporation (JKTDC), the J&K Cable Car Corporation, and other related bodies, offering a single-window digital experience. Officials said the platform will help bridge information gaps and make tourism-related data easily accessible to domestic and international visitors.

“A modern, dynamic digital presence is crucial for effective outreach,” the Chief Minister said. “The new Tourism Kashmir websitewill be informative and serve as a comprehensive platform for tourists and stakeholders alike.” He noted that in today’s travel ecosystem, digital visibility often plays a decisive role in destination choice, planning, and overall tourist experience.

Focus on Infrastructure and Experience-Based Tourism

The unveiling of the JKCCC calendar also highlighted the growing emphasis on ropeway and cable car projects, which have emerged as important tourism infrastructure in the region. Such projects not only improve accessibility to scenic locations but also enhance visitor experience while creating local employment opportunities.

Tourism officials present at the event said that the calendars and digital initiatives together reflect a shift toward experience-based and infrastructure-supported tourism, aimed at attracting visitors throughout the year rather than during peak seasons alone.

Investing in Youth and Winter Sports

Adding another dimension to the tourism push, the Chief Minister inaugurated the Integrated Skiing Course at Gulmarg and Sonamarg—two of Kashmir’s most iconic winter destinations. The initiative includes two batches of trainees, with 32 participants at Gulmarg and 25 at Sonamarg. The basic skiing course spans 14 daysand targets young trainees aged between 12 and 18 years.

Officials said the programme is designed to nurture local talent, promote winter sports culture, and create a skilled workforce that can support adventure and winter tourism in the long run. Gulmarg, already known internationally for its skiing potential, is expected to benefit significantly from trained local instructors and professionals.

By investing in youth skill development, the government aims to ensure that tourism growth translates into sustainable employment for local communities. “Training local youth in skiing and other tourism-related skills is essential for making tourism inclusive and community-driven,” a senior tourism official said.

Tourism as an Economic Pillar

The event brought together senior government functionaries, including Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary Tourism Ashish Chandra Verma, Director Tourism Kashmir and MD JKCCC Syed Qamar Sajad, Director Tourism Jammu Dr Vikas Gupta, and MD JKTDC Shreya Singhal.

Observers say the combined focus on promotion, digital transformation, infrastructure, and skill development signals a clear intent to position tourism as one of the strongest pillars of Jammu and Kashmir’s economy. With improved branding and targeted investments, the sector is expected to generate employment, boost local businesses, and reinforce Kashmir’s image as a safe, attractive, and diverse destination.

As Jammu and Kashmir looks ahead to 2026, initiatives such as these reflect an effort to move beyond seasonal tourism and build a resilient, future-ready tourism ecosystem—one that balances promotion with infrastructure, and growth with local participation.