Rehan Qayoom Mir/ Raja Syed Rather
Srinagar/Ganderbal, Oct 28 : Expressing hope for the early snowfall this year, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday said the government is putting efforts to promote the tourism sector in the region. He asserted that the government will not support any legislation that benefits the land mafia or those occupying land illegally.
Speaking to the media here about the second edition of the Kashmir Marathon, the Chief Minister said the event is set to be held on November 2, 2025, despite the chilly weather conditions. “So far, the registration has doubled compared to last year. Still, enough time is left; anyone who wants to participate in the event should book their tickets and join us in the event on Sunday,” he said, as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO).
Omar said that Kashmir is the ideal destination for such an event, describing the Valley as the most beautiful and ideal destination for the marathon.
The temperature will be challenging, he said, adding that the marathon is an evolving event, now entering its second edition. Such events, he said, promote tourism and help increase footfall in the Valley.
“These events have their own significance. We are trying to promote tourism through this event and other events. Our efforts are on to give a boost to the tourism sector,” he said, adding that amid the promotion, there is a need to improve the infrastructure as well.
The CM expressed hope for timely snowfall to boost winter tourism. He said the tourists are visiting Kashmir, though footfall is currently low, but added they are hopeful for an increase.
Earlier, speaking to the media in Ganderbal, the Chief Minister reacted to the decision to reject the land bill, saying the government will not support any legislation that benefits the land mafia or those occupying land illegally.
“I will not harm the people of Jammu and Kashmir through my government. Any bill that benefits the common people will be supported, but those meant to help illegal occupants will not be passed,” he said.
Asked about the government’s decision despite PDP’s support in the recently held Rajya Sabha elections, Omar said, “I am not ready to sell the land of Jammu and Kashmir for a seat in Rajya Sabha. The government will support any bill that is aimed at providing benefits to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Any bill to benefit the land mafia will not be passed by this government,” he said.
Notably, the Chief Minister visited J&K Sainik School Manasbal to attend the Annual Day celebrations and interacted with reporters on the sidelines of the event.
On the occasion, he said the Sainik School Manasbal can be further improved, just like any other educational institution. “There is no institution which is perfect in itself. The school authorities, the education department, and we will sit together to make necessary decisions for a better future,” he said.
Responding to questions regarding the absence of the School Principal, the Chief Minister said the matter has been taken up with Minister Sakina Itoo and Secretary School Education Sharma and that the issue will be resolved soon—(KNO)
