J&K’s Ambitious Tourism Plans Dashed After Pahalgam Terror Attack
J&K’s Big Tourism Dreams
Jammu and Kashmir had big plans for its tourism industry. With tourism already contributing 7% to the state’s economy, they aimed to nearly double that share in the next five years, making it a major economic powerhouse. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah even mentioned ‘tourism’ 27 times in his 2025-26 budget speech, highlighting the importance he placed on it.
A Growing Industry
Things were looking up. After the pandemic, tourist arrivals were steadily increasing. In 2024, a record 2.36 crore tourists visited J&K, a 11.4% jump from 2023. This included a 10.9% increase in visitors to the Kashmir Valley. Foreign tourist numbers also more than tripled since 2022.
Hopeful Projections
The government was investing heavily in tourism, earmarking Rs 390.2 crore for capital expenditure in 2026, a significant increase from previous years. They even had a comprehensive policy in place aimed at creating jobs and attracting investments. The Economic Survey for 2024-25 predicted that tourism would bring in Rs 50 crore in non-tax revenue for 2025, and Rs 100 crore in 2026.
A Setback
But those dreams have been shattered by a recent terror attack in Pahalgam. This has led to the closure of 49 prominent tourist destinations, dealing a major blow to the industry.
What’s Next?
It remains to be seen how this setback will affect J&K’s tourism plans. But the attack underscores the ongoing challenges facing the region, even as it strives to rebuild and attract visitors.
