Srinagar, Oct 14: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday downplayed National Conference leader Aga Ruhullah’s reported decision to stay away from the party’s campaign in Budgam, saying he was unaware of the matter.
“I don’t know anything about him,” Omar said briefly when asked about Ruhullah’s remarks, while speaking to reporters after attending the FICCI National Executive Committee meeting in Srinagar.
Referring to the broader situation in Jammu and Kashmir, Omar said the Union Territory has endured a challenging year marked by multiple setbacks. “It’s no secret that this year has been difficult first the Pahalgam attack, then the tense situation between the two countries, and later, the heavy rains in July, August, and September which caused significant damage,” he said.
He admitted that these developments have strained J&K’s finances but maintained that the government continues to serve the people. “It’s not complete darkness. Even in difficult times, there are rays of light and we are holding on to that hope as we continue to work for the welfare of our people,” the Chief Minister added.
On tourism, Omar said several initiatives are underway to attract more visitors to the region. “A team has been sent to Singapore as Southeast Asia is a major market for us. Similarly, across India in Bengaluru, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Delhi we are promoting Jammu and Kashmir as a preferred tourist destination,” he said.
Omar expressed optimism that such efforts will help revive the tourism sector, which remains vital to the region’s economy. (KNC)
