Says She Will Try to Visit Kashmir After Durga Puja
Diplomat Correspondent
Kolkata, (DD)West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday urged the central government to enhance security measures in Jammu and Kashmir to restore tourist confidence and help revive the region’s vital tourism sector.
Speaking to reporters after meeting Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at Nabanna in Kolkata, Banerjee said, “The Centre must take strong and timely steps to ensure safety in Jammu and Kashmir. Tourism can only grow when people feel secure.”
She emphasized the need for tighter border security and called for closer coordination between the Centre and the Jammu and Kashmir government. “Kashmir is a beautiful place. Our people must not fear visiting it. I encourage tourists from Bengal to explore the region,” she added.
Banerjee also confirmed her plans to visit the Valley. “Omar came here after the Pahalgam incident and invited me to Kashmir. I’ve accepted the invitation and will try to visit after Durga Puja,” she said.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who accompanied Banerjee during the media interaction, thanked her for her support following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam and Operation Sindoor. “Didi sent a team to meet affected families in Rajouri and Poonch. Her solidarity meant a lot to us,” he said.
He added that Jammu and Kashmir and West Bengal could work together to promote tourism, trade, and cultural exchange. “We want to build long-term partnerships. I’ve invited Didi to Kashmir, and we look forward to strengthening ties between our states,” Abdullah said.
The two leaders also discussed the possibility of joint tourism campaigns, industry collaborations, and cultural programs. Banerjee proposed signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalize cooperation in these areas.
“Kashmir is known for its saffron, dry fruits, music, and art. Our tourism department is ready to collaborate. We will also invite Kashmiri artists to participate in Republic Day events in Bengal,” Banerjee said, adding that Bengali filmmakers would be encouraged to shoot in the Valley.
The meeting comes amid renewed outreach efforts by the Jammu and Kashmir government to attract tourism and investment following recent security concerns(DD)
