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

The warmth and hospitality of the local populace, along with the trust shown by tourists in their goodwill, have thwarted the malicious intentions of those opposing peace and prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir.

The Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, emphasized on Wednesday that despite ongoing security challenges, tourism remains a cornerstone of the Union Territory's economy.

In his speech at the Legislative Assembly, L-G Sinha highlighted that despite these challenges and natural disasters, more than 1.78 crore visitors came to the region last year.

He pointed to obstacles such as the Pahalgam terror attack, the floods of 2025, and Operation Sindoor.

Given its vital economic role, tourism has been designated as an industry in Jammu and Kashmir to attract investment and create job opportunities.

The L-G particularly acknowledged the establishment of the Chrysanthemum garden named 'Bagh-e-Gul-Dawood', which debuted last year as a major autumn tourist attraction in Srinagar.

With over 50 vibrant varieties of Chrysanthemum, this garden represents a strategic foundation for Kashmir's evolution into a year-round tourist destination.

“Attention has been directed towards pilgrim tourism in Jammu, adventure tourism in Kashmir, and eco-friendly tourism in border areas to ensure balanced growth across various regions of Jammu and Kashmir,” remarked the L-G.

He also mentioned that the Union government is developing a sustainable project for emerging tourist destinations through public-private partnerships.

On the subject of energy, the L-G noted significant advancements in the power sector, mentioning new hydro-power projects like Pakal Dul, Kiru, Ratle, and Kwar, which together have a combined potential of 3,014 megawatts.

He expressed satisfaction over the addition of 5,708 MVA to the distribution system and 4,239 MVA to the transmission sector in Jammu and Kashmir over the past five years.

Power losses have decreased by nine percent, and revenue realization has risen by 16 percent in the Union Territory.

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

Under this flagship scheme, 6,700 government buildings and 16,800 homes have been solarized to date.

A significant milestone in connectivity has been achieved by linking the Valley with the rest of the country via a railway connection.

The L-G referred to the modernization of the Jammu Tawi Railway station and the establishment of a dedicated railway division for Jammu and Kashmir.