Kolkata: 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 revive the region’s vital tourism sector.
Speaking to reporters after meeting J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at Nabanna in Kolkata, Banerjee as per news agency JKNS said, “The Centre must take strong and swift steps to ensure safety in Jammu and Kashmir. Tourism can only revive when people feel secure.”
She said the need for strengthened border security and said the central government should coordinate directly with Omar Abdullah for on-ground arrangements. “Kashmir is a beautiful place. Our people must not fear visiting it. I encourage tourists from Bengal to travel there,” she said.
Banerjee also confirmed her upcoming visit to the Valley. “Omar came here after the Pahalgam incident and invited me to Kashmir. I have accepted the invitation and will try to visit after Durga Puja,” she added.
Speaking alongside her, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah thanked Banerjee 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,” Omar said.
He said J&K and West Bengal should work together on tourism, trade and culture. “We want to create lasting partnerships with Bengal. I’ve invited Didi to Kashmir, and we look forward to strengthening our relationship,” he said.
The two leaders also discussed launching joint tourism campaigns, industry collaborations and cultural exchanges. Banerjee proposed signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two states.
Kashmir is known for its saffron, dry fruits, music, and art. Our tourism department is ready to work with theirs. We will also invite Kashmiri artists to participate in our Republic Day events, Banerjee said, adding that Bengali filmmakers will be encouraged to shoot in Kashmir.
The meeting comes as the J&K government continues outreach to other states to boost tourism and investment following recent security concerns. (JKNS)
