Thu Jun 19 22:50:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article rewrite of the provided text:

**Summary:**

Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat is optimistic about the recovery of tourism in Kashmir following a dip after the Pahalgam attack. He invites tourists to visit, emphasizing the safety, heritage, culture, and natural beauty of the region, including sites like the Martand and Avanti Swami temples. He appeals to people to participate in the upcoming Amarnath Yatra. Shekhawat met with J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to discuss strategies for strengthening the tourism sector and promoting sustainable development.

**News Article:**

**Kashmir Tourism Poised for Recovery, Says Union Minister**

**SRINAGAR, June 20, 2025** – Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat expressed confidence in the recovery of Kashmir’s tourism sector during a visit to the region. Speaking yesterday, June 19th, Shekhawat stated that tourism is showing signs of rebounding following a decline after the Pahalgam attack in April.

“The way tourism has recovered in J&K over the last 1.5 months, we will be able to achieve pre-Pahalgam status by December,” Shekhawat said.

The minister extended an open invitation to tourists, emphasizing the safety and diverse attractions Kashmir offers. “Kashmir is safe, and tourists should visit the valley. I appeal to the 140-crore people of India to try and see Kashmir’s heritage and its historical grandeur and divinity, along with its natural beauty,” he urged, also encouraging participation in the upcoming Amarnath Yatra, which begins on July 3rd.

Shekhawat also highlighted the region’s historical and cultural significance, visiting the Martand Temple and the Avanti Swami temple in Awantipora. He described the temples as profound reflections of Kashmir’s civilizational past.

During his visit, Shekhawat met with J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to discuss strategies for strengthening the tourism sector. The meeting focused on initiatives to boost tourism infrastructure, promote heritage sites, and create sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities. Both leaders emphasized the importance of tourism as a key driver of economic growth and cultural exchange in the region. Abdullah expressed appreciation for the central government’s support and reiterated the J&K government’s commitment to reviving and reimagining the tourism sector.

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