Sat Nov 29 15:15:23 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a news article rewrite based on the provided text:

Summary:

Following recent terror attacks in Pahalgam, a blast in Delhi, and another in Nowgam, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expresses concern over the impact on the region’s tourism industry in 2025. While tourist numbers are down, he remains optimistic that snowfall in December will revitalize the sector, especially in popular destinations like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg. He highlights government efforts to promote tourism and announces plans to develop nine new sustainable tourism destinations. Abdullah also emphasizes the importance of sustainable tourism and the need for the industry to benefit local communities. He underscores the resilience of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and expresses hope for a positive future for the region’s tourism. Finally, the Chief Minister attended the launch of SKÃL International Club’s Kashmir Chapter, with the hopes of opening new avenues for sustainable tourism, international collaboration, and long-term growth in the area.

News Article:

Snowfall Hope for Kashmir Tourism After Security Concerns

Srinagar, India – November 29, 2025 – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is pinning his hopes on winter snowfall to revitalize the region’s tourism industry, which has been struggling following a series of security incidents this year. Speaking at a tourism event in Srinagar on Saturday, Abdullah acknowledged that attacks in Pahalgam in April, a blast in Delhi earlier this month, and an explosion at a Nowgam police station have significantly impacted visitor numbers.

“This year has not been easy for us from a tourism point of view,” Abdullah stated. “Be it Pahalgam, Delhi, and Nowgam, it has had a huge impact on our tourism.”

While tourists are still visiting, Abdullah noted the numbers are lower than desired. He emphasized the importance of snowfall in attracting visitors to popular destinations like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg, and Srinagar. “The sooner it snows, the sooner our winter tourism season will start,” he said.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the government’s efforts to promote tourism and announced plans to develop nine new tourism destinations with a focus on sustainability and community involvement. He emphasized the need for responsible and sustainable tourism practices to protect both the environment and local populations.

“If tourism is not responsible and sustainable, it will not last,” Abdullah said. “Tourism, or any industry that does not benefit locals, is an industry that will not survive.”

The Chief Minister made his remarks while attending the launch of SKÃL International Club’s Kashmir Chapter, an organization focused on international tourism networking. He expressed hope that the partnership will strengthen global tourism linkages and integrate Jammu and Kashmir with global tourism networks. He said the organization’s values of good health, friendship, long life and happiness deeply resonate with the ethos of Jammu and Kashmir.

Despite recent challenges, Abdullah expressed optimism for the future. “We are nothing if not resilient,” he said, adding, “Yes, there is darkness, but it will not remain forever.”

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