In view of the upcoming G20 Meeting scheduled to commence in Srinagar on Monday, the Border Security Force (BSF) has significantly tightened security along the International Border in Jammu and Kashmir. The aim is to ensure a safe and secure environment for the high-profile event.
The special water wing of the BSF has intensified its patrolling activities along the Chenab River, employing specially designed boats capable of maneuvering through its challenging currents. The boat patrols, conducted both day and night, supplement the foot and vehicle patrols along the border. This comprehensive approach reinforces the vigilance and deterrence necessary to safeguard the region.
Simultaneously, security measures have been reinforced in the neighboring border districts of Rajouri and Poonch, with thorough vehicle inspections conducted by the police. The authorities are leaving no stone unturned in their efforts to maintain a secure environment before and during the G20 Meeting.
The G20’s Third Tourism Working Group Meeting is set to take place in Srinagar from the 22nd to the 24th of May. Ahead of the event, Arvind Singh, Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, held a press conference at SKICC Srinagar on Sunday. Singh highlighted the significant achievements and key deliverables expected from the Tourism Working Group. These include the GOA Roadmap for Tourism, aimed at achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs), and the G20 Tourism Ministers’ Declaration.
Singh emphasized the significance of the meeting being held in Srinagar, noting that it has received an exceptional response from member countries, invited nations, and international organizations, with a record-breaking level of participation compared to previous Tourism Working Group Meetings in Rann of Kutch and Siliguri.
During the meeting, representatives from G20 member countries, invited nations, and international organizations will provide valuable inputs and feedback on the draft documents. Following negotiations with G20 Member Countries, the final versions of the documents will be presented at the Fourth Tourism Working Group Meeting.
The Third Tourism Working Group Meeting will focus on five key priority areas: Green Tourism, Digitalization, Skills, MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises), and Destination Management. These priorities serve as essential building blocks to expedite the transformation of the tourism sector and achieve the targets outlined in the 2030 SDGs.
A notable side event titled ‘Film Tourism for Economic Growth and Cultural Preservation’ will take place on May 22nd and 23rd, shedding light on strategies to promote film tourism in Jammu and Kashmir. Participants from G20 member countries, invited nations, international organizations, and industry stakeholders will engage in discussions. Additionally, a draft ‘National Strategy on Film Tourism’ will be unveiled to provide a roadmap for utilizing the power of films in promoting tourist destinations.
Harsh Vardhan Shringla, Chief Coordinator of G20, expressed that it is Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to disseminate the message of India’s G20 Presidency to the grassroots level through active public participation.
Arun Mehta, Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir, highlighted the evident transformation on the ground, with the region having witnessed the highest number of tourists, amounting to 18.8 million, in 2022.
In conjunction with the Third Tourism Working Group Meeting, delegates will have the opportunity to visit the Art and Craft Bazaar organized by the State Government. The bazaar showcases local handicrafts and the work of artisans, underscoring the significance of community participation. Delegates will also engage in hands-on experiences through DIY activities at the Craft Bazaar.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Tourism is actively promoting local products of Jammu and Kashmir by presenting delegates with souvenirs such as Paper Mache Boxes, Saffron from Pampore, Kawa Cups and Brass Spoons, and Walnuts from Anantnag, Shopian, and Kupwara.
The G20 Tourism Working Group meeting in Srinagar aims to bolster economic growth, preserve cultural heritage, and promote sustainable development throughout the region. With tightened security measures in place, Jammu and Kashmir are ready to welcome delegates from around the world for this significant event. (Edited)