Kashmir Business Leaders Urge PM Modi to Celebrate Diwali Locally

The business community in Kashmir has formally invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to celebrate Diwali in the region, a move they believe could significantly aid in reviving the local economy. Represented by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Kashmir (CCIK), the request comes as the region grapples with severe economic setbacks that have severely impacted its tourism and agricultural sectors.

CCIK President Tariq Gani emphasized that an invitation from the Prime Minister could encourage visitors from across India to return to the Valley. “If PM Modi gives a call of invitation to people from across the country to visit the Valley, it will make this paradise bloom again,” he stated. Gani believes that such a gesture would not only restore the tourism sector but also positively affect other struggling industries in the region.

Economic Challenges Facing Kashmir

The Kashmir economy has faced a series of challenges this year. The recent attack in Pahalgam at the start of the tourism season resulted in a staggering loss estimated at ₹42,000 crore. This incident effectively halted tourism, which is crucial for the region’s economy. Additionally, a scandal involving spoiled meat has caused widespread fear among locals and tourists alike, crippling the hotel and restaurant sectors.

In light of these issues, Gani has called for urgent measures from local authorities. He commended Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha for his efforts in getting local fruits, particularly apples, out of the region in a timely manner. However, he urged for compensation for fruit growers who suffered losses due to the closure of National Highway 44 (NH44) for over 20 days during the peak apple harvesting season, leading to additional losses of approximately ₹1,200 crore.

Gani also highlighted the need for a special economic package from the union territory authorities, including a one-year waiver on bank loan interest for local businesses. He further stressed the importance of promoting Kashmir as a tourist destination, advocating for the reopening of tourist sites that were closed following the Pahalgam attack. This, he believes, would restore a sense of security and normalcy, encouraging tourists to return.

Call to Action and Future Prospects

The local community has also expressed disappointment over the cancellation of a promotional trip to Paris by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. Gani stated, “We don’t know why the CM cancelled his Paris tour; he should go and take stakeholders with him to expand promotion efforts to other countries.” He emphasized that attracting both domestic and international tourists is vital for Kashmir’s recovery.

The series of setbacks has led to broader discussions within the Kashmir business community, which recently convened with top officials from the administration, police, traffic department, and the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC). The consensus among participants was a unified call for Prime Minister Modi to visit Kashmir and rally support for the struggling economy.

As Kashmir charts a path toward recovery, the emphasis remains on restoring the tourism sector, supporting local businesses, and ensuring that the region is once again seen as a safe and desirable destination for visitors.