G20 Tourism Summit in Srinagar: Showcasing Kashmir's Potential Amidst Controversy

Representatives from G20 countries gather in Srinagar, India to discuss tourism development amidst criticism and misinformation

Sazzadul Islam Nayan

The G20 Tourism Summit commenced yesterday in Srinagar, the capital of Jammu and Kashmir, amidst a whirlwind of misinformation and negative criticism. Representatives from various member countries have started arriving in the city over the past few days, with the exception of China. The three-day summit aims to foster collaboration and explore opportunities in the tourism sector, highlighting the theme of ‘Film Tourism for Economic Growth and Cultural Preservation.’

In a notable move, India extended a special invitation to its neighbor Bangladesh to participate in the G20 process as the chair for 2023. Harshvardhan Shringla, the chief coordinator of the G20, expressed his belief that this opportunity provides Bangladesh with a unique chance to participate in global decision-making across various domains, such as food and energy security, environment, livelihoods, and women-led development.

Security arrangements have been meticulously planned to ensure the smooth proceedings of the summit, as expectations are high for increased participation from foreign representatives compared to previous meetings.

Experts speculate that India’s decision to host the G20 summit in Kashmir is a strategic effort to restore normalcy to the region. By showcasing the beauty of Kashmir, India aims to dispel any doubts about the situation and pave the way for global recognition and development. The new development plan unveiled at the summit promises to enhance the quality of life for the region’s residents.

Union Minister of State, Jitendra Singh, emphasized the positive changes in Kashmir, noting that the strike calls had diminished, markets were open, and people enjoyed unrestricted movement. The Chamber of Commerce and Industries of Kashmir expressed optimism about the conference, anticipating a significant transformation in the region’s economy.

Dr. Sameera Gupta, a South Asian expert, and economist, emphasized that hosting the G20 summit in Jammu and Kashmir offers India a unique opportunity to showcase the immense potential of the region. This conference not only highlights Kashmir’s natural beauty and cultural heritage but also attracts global attention and promotes international cooperation. The exposure resulting from the G20 summit is expected to contribute to the socio-economic development of the valley.

Infrastructure expert Dr. Rajesh Verma highlighted the focus on accelerating infrastructure development in Jammu and Kashmir as part of India’s G20 initiatives. Modern airports, highways, and urban infrastructure projects have enhanced connectivity and facilitated business activities in the region, opening doors for investment and job opportunities. These infrastructural upgrades are set to strengthen Kashmir’s economy, attract investors, and improve the overall quality of life for its citizens.

The G20 initiative in Jammu and Kashmir places significant emphasis on empowering the local population through skill development and entrepreneurship. Dr. Ayesha Khan, a social development expert, emphasized the importance of vocational courses, business incubators, and training programs to foster an entrepreneurial culture and create a skilled workforce. This approach aims to empower Kashmir’s youth, enabling them to contribute to the region’s economic growth and ensuring a prosperous future.

Recognizing the unparalleled natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir, the G20 initiatives have prioritized the promotion of tourism in the valley. Tourism expert Dr. Raghav Malhotra noted that these initiatives have injected much-needed momentum into Kashmir’s tourism industry. The influx of visitors is expected to generate revenue, foster cultural exchange, and promote peace and understanding.

However, the decision to host the G20 summit in Kashmir has faced criticism, particularly in light of the laws and policies implemented since the region came under the direct control of the Indian government.