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Srinagar, Oct 31: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg on Saturday said investments exceeding Rs 60,000 crore in road infrastructure, improved rail and air connectivity, and expanding tourism activities were driving economic transformation across the Kashmir Valley, creating new opportunities for employment, entrepreneurship and regional development.
Addressing a gathering at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) on the occasion of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas and Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory Foundation Day, Garg said the region had witnessed significant infrastructure development over the past several years. “In the last few years, we have witnessed unprecedented development of infrastructure.
Investments of more than Rs 60,000 crore in road infrastructure in the Kashmir Valley, Vande Bharat connectivity and improvements in air connectivity have brought positive changes in people's lives,” he said.
The Div Com said improved connectivity was not only facilitating movement but also expanding economic opportunities, strengthening tourism and bringing remote areas closer to major commercial centres.
Highlighting the diversification of Kashmir's tourism sector, Garg said new attractions and events had been added to the Valley's tourism calendar, moving beyond conventional sightseeing destinations.
“The Tulip Garden, Kashmir Marathon, film festivals, Chrysanthemum Garden and winter tourism have added new dimensions to Kashmir's tourism calendar,” he said.
He said the expansion of tourism activities was creating opportunities for local entrepreneurs, service providers and young people seeking livelihoods in the hospitality and allied sectors.
Referring to employment generation, Garg said several government initiatives, including the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), Mission YUVA, Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP), National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM), Startup India and the Homestay Policy, were being implemented to promote entrepreneurship and self-employment.
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