Srinagar, Feb 4 (NationPress) Despite the significant blow to the tourism sector caused by the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22 last year, which resulted in the loss of 26 innocent lives, including 25 tourists and a local pony owner at the hands of Pakistani terrorists, the Union Territory welcomed over 1.78 crore tourists in 2025.

The warmth and hospitality of the local population, coupled with the trust that visitors have in the community's goodwill, have triumphed over the malicious intentions of those who wish to disrupt peace and prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir.

Lieutenant Governor (L-G) Manoj Sinha stated on Wednesday that despite ongoing security challenges, tourism remains a cornerstone of the Union Territory's economy.

During his address to the Legislative Assembly, L-G Sinha emphasized that more than 1.78 crore tourists visited the region last year, despite the looming threats and natural disasters.

The L-G mentioned various challenges, including the Pahalgam attack, the devastating floods of 2025, and Operation Sindoor.

He highlighted the economic significance of tourism, which has been designated as an industry in Jammu and Kashmir to attract investments and create jobs.

The L-G also praised the newly established Chrysanthemum garden, 'Bagh-e-Gul-Dawood', which debuted last year as a prominent autumn tourist attraction in Srinagar.

Featuring over 50 vibrant varieties of Chrysanthemum, this garden plays a pivotal role in transforming Kashmir into a year-round tourist destination.

“Emphasis is being placed on pilgrim tourism in Jammu, adventure tourism in Kashmir, and eco-friendly tourism in border regions to ensure balanced development across Jammu and Kashmir,” remarked the L-G.

He further elaborated on the Union government's intentions to initiate sustainable projects for emerging tourist spots through public-private partnerships.

In relation to the power sector, the L-G noted impactful transformations due to new hydro-power projects such as Pakal Dul, Kiru, Ratle, and Kwar, which collectively possess a potential capacity of 3,014 megawatts.

L-G Sinha expressed satisfaction that in the past five years, 5,708 MVA capacity had been added to the distribution system and 4,239 MVA to the transmission sector in Jammu and Kashmir.

He indicated that power losses had decreased by 9%, while revenue realization had climbed by 16% in the Union Territory.

Furthermore, he mentioned the solarization of government buildings and private residences through the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, which has bolstered renewable energy usage.

According to the L-G, under this flagship scheme from the Central government, 6,700 government buildings and 16,800 homes have been solarized.

He noted a historic achievement in connectivity with the establishment of a railway link connecting the Valley to the rest of the country.

The L-G also mentioned the modernization of Jammu Tawi Railway Station and the establishment of a dedicated railway division for Jammu and Kashmir.