In a significant move aimed at bolstering tourism infrastructure across Jammu & Kashmir, the Government has reconstituted 21 Tourism Development Authorities. This includes key authorities to be chaired by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, and the Administrative Secretary of Tourism.
According to an order issued by the General Administration Department late tonight, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha will personally oversee the Patnitop, Pahalgam, and Gulmarg Development Authorities. Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo will head six authorities, namely Doodhpathri, Sonamarg, Lolab-Bangus-Dangyari, Bhaderwah, Surinsar-Mansar, and Bani-Basohli.
Twelve other authorities will be led by the Administrative Secretary of Tourism, overseeing crucial destinations such as Aharbal, Hygam-Ningli-Tarzoo, Kokernag, Kishtwar, Poonch, Rajouri, Shopian Dubjan Peer-Ki-Gali, Verinag, Wullar-Manasbal, Yousmarg, Billawar-Duggan (Lakhanpur-Sarthal), and Tosa-Maidan.
“The members of these Development Authorities shall hold office for a period of two years,” the order specified, highlighting the tenure of officials involved.
Under the reconstitution, each Development Authority will include members from Finance, Tourism, and Planning, Development, and Monitoring Departments. Additionally, the Director of Tourism from the respective division and the local Deputy Commissioner will also serve as members in all Development Authorities.
The establishment of these Tourism Development Authorities aligns with the Jammu and Kashmir Development Authority Act of 1970, emphasizing strategic development and promotion of tourism in the region.
