Shadow Correspondent
Jammu, Apr 8:
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today chaired a meeting on Heritage Promotion and Cultural Tourism in Jammu & Kashmir to review measures for conservation and adaptive reuse of heritage assets aimed at boosting tourism in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Chief Minister stressed the need to strengthen institutional mechanisms and develop heritage-based tourism circuits to position J&K as a premier cultural tourism destination.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah underscored the importance of learning from national and international agencies that have successfully undertaken conservation and adaptive reuse of heritage properties. He called for structured consultations with such stakeholders to draw upon technical expertise and professional inputs for transforming heritage sites into viable tourism assets.
Advocating a holistic and forward-looking approach, the Chief Minister emphasized the need to blend conservation with commercialization and community engagement. He said that Jammu & Kashmir’s vast heritage wealth must be leveraged as a dynamic engine for tourism and economic growth, while ensuring preservation of its cultural legacy.
The meeting also discussed in detail the proposed constitution of the J&K Heritage Conservation and Preservation Authority, with emphasis on strengthening its institutional capacity and ensuring effective implementation of conservation policies.
The meeting was attended by Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief
CM Omar Abdullah
Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary Tourism and Public Works (R&B), Commissioner Secretary Information, Secretary Culture and other senior officials.
During the meeting, Secretary Culture delivered a detailed presentation highlighting the immense heritage potential of Jammu & Kashmir, encompassing both tangible and intangible assets such as monuments, forts, shrines and performing arts traditions. It was noted that despite this diversity, many heritage sites remain underutilized and are facing gradual deterioration due to limited technical expertise, fragmented institutional mechanisms and inadequate financial and policy support.
The presentation revealed that over 600 heritage sites have been identified across Jammu & Kashmir, including both protected and unlisted monuments, reflecting the vast scale of opportunity in the sector.
A key focus of the presentation was the adoption of adaptive reuse models, particularly through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) frameworks. Drawing from successful examples in states such as neighbouring state Punjab, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, it illustrated how neglected heritage structures can be transformed into vibrant cultural and tourism destinations. Projects such as Qila Mubarak (Patiala), Neemrana Fort and Orchha Fort were cited as examples where heritage hotels, museums and experiential spaces have generated revenue while preserving historical integrity.
The presentation also reviewed the existing legal and institutional framework under the J&K Heritage Conservation and Preservation Act, 2010, identifying critical gaps including the inactive status of the Heritage Conservation Authority, lack of inter-departmental coordination and outdated institutional structures, which have hindered effective conservation and promotion efforts.
To address these challenges, a reform proposal was presented, including reconstitution and strengthening of the J&K Heritage Conservation and Preservation Authority with expanded powers, revised composition and active leadership under the Chief Minister.
The proposal further emphasized integrated planning, development of heritage tourism circuits, promotion of heritage hotels through PPP mode, and strategic branding of Jammu & Kashmir as a premier cultural and wedding destination.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today underscored the need for a collective responsibility in addressing key social challenges, stating that while several responsibilities lie with the government, many others must be shared by society as a whole.
He made these remarks while launching a three-day divisional-level awareness programme organised by the School Education Department at the Convention Centre here.
Addressing a large gathering of students and stakeholders, the Chief Minister drew a clear distinction between responsibilities that fall solely within the domain of the government, such as building roads, bridges and hospitals, and those that require active public participation. “Besides the government, public has crucial role in maintaining environmental safeguards and key public assets as part of their civic responsibility,” he said.
Highlighting the issue of civic responsibility, he expressed concern over the common tendency to shift blame entirely onto the government, particularly in matters like cleanliness. He urged citizens to adopt responsible behaviour in their daily lives, stressing that a cleaner and better society can only be achieved through collective efforts.
The Chief Minister emphasized that if society actively participates in such initiatives, Jammu & Kashmir can match global standards. “If you act on the pledges taken today, we can compete not just within the country but with the world,” he said, calling upon the younger generation to carry forward a better and more responsible society.
Touching upon mental health, Omar Abdullah noted that it continues to be stigmatized in society. He urged people to show empathy and understanding towards those facing psychological challenges. “Even a few words of sympathy can make a difference and give someone the courage to overcome difficult times,” he said.
On drug abuse, the Chief Minister stressed that the fight against the menace cannot be won by the government alone. He called upon civil society, educational institutions, religious leaders and citizens to actively contribute towards making Jammu & Kashmir drug-free. “If we leave it to the government alone, we will not succeed. Everyone has to play their part,” he asserted.
He also encouraged students to explore new avenues through career counselling initiatives, stating that such programmes can open up opportunities that many may not have previously considered.
Highlighting environmental responsibility, the Chief Minister advocated for plantation drives, suggesting a shift from ceremonial gestures to meaningful contributions. “Instead of shawls, plant trees in our name. Even if a few survive, it will be a lasting contribution,” he remarked, adding that environmental protection is a shared duty.
On traffic awareness, he stressed that by following safety norms such as wearing helmets and seat belts is not a favour to the government but a responsibility towards oneself and one’s family. He urged people to adopt road safety measures sincerely rather than merely complying with regulations.
The Chief Minister also advised students to reduce excessive screen time and focus on holistic development. He expressed confidence that the younger generation, with its broader outlook, can drive meaningful change if guided properly.
On the occasion, Omar Abdullah administered a pledge focusing on mental health awareness, drug de-addiction, career counselling, traffic safety and environmental protection.
He also distributed innovation kits and stationery kits sponsored by Bharti Airtel, sanitation kits sponsored by SBI Foundation, and outdoor equipment under Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE). The Chief Minister also felicitated resource persons and experts associated with the programme.
Addressing the gathering, Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo said that the enthusiastic participation of students reflects their commitment towards societal development. She described the awareness campaign as a unique opportunity to address pressing issues such as mental health, drug addiction, environmental protection, traffic awareness and career guidance.
She called upon all stakeholders to actively participate in the campaign and emphasized the importance of collective action. “If every student, ICDS worker and healthcare professional plants a tree, it can bring significant change in environmental protection and sustainability,” she said.
The Minister also stressed the need for united efforts to combat drug abuse, urging the youth to come forward to safeguard their future and that of Jammu & Kashmir.
Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, in his address, emphasized the importance of adhering to laws and instilling awareness among younger generations from an early age. He also highlighted the need for continuous awareness campaigns to combat drug abuse.
MLA Jammu West Arvind Gupta called for active involvement of civil society in eradicating the drug menace and appreciated the leadership of the Chief Minister, expressing optimism about the region’s progress and prosperity.
The event was attended by Director School Education Jammu Naseem Javaid Choudhary, Director Social Welfare Department Jammu, other senior officers, and a large number of students. Participants from all ten districts of Jammu division also joined the programme through online mode.
