Omar Abdullah responds warmly to PM Modi’s praise, urging more Indians to visit Jammu & Kashmir to support its economy and national integration
Leaders Exchange Praise Amid Push for National Tourism
In a rare but heartening political moment, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah exchanged positive words on social media, spotlighting tourism as a tool for unity and economic revival. The conversation followed Abdullah’s recent visit to Gujarat, where he explored Ahmedabad’s iconic Sabarmati Riverfront and the Statue of Unity.
📲 The Exchange on X (formerly Twitter):
- PM Modi posted:
“Kashmir to Kevadia! Good to see Shri Omar Abdullah Ji enjoying his run at the Sabarmati Riverfront and visiting the Statue of Unity. His visit to SoU gives an important message of unity and will inspire our fellow Indians to travel to different parts of India.” - Omar Abdullah replied:
“I’m a firm believer that travel broadens the horizons & the mind, @narendramodi ji. It’s especially important for us in J&K as tourism is a crucial part of our economy & has the potential to gainfully employ lakhs of people. That’s why I & my colleagues are trying to convince more of our fellow Indians to visit J&K, especially after the tragic events earlier this year.”
🏃♂️ Abdullah’s Morning Run in Ahmedabad Draws Praise
Earlier, Abdullah had shared a post detailing his run along the Sabarmati Riverfront:
“While in #Ahmedabad for a tourism event I took advantage of being here to get my morning run at the famed Sabarmati River Front promenade… I even managed to run past the amazing Atal Foot Bridge.”
📍 Purpose of the Visit: Promoting Kashmir Tourism
Omar Abdullah’s two-day Gujarat visit was part of a larger effort to promote Jammu and Kashmir as a top domestic travel destination, especially after the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that impacted tourist footfall.
🔑 Key Activities During the Visit:
- Engaged with tour operators and travel stakeholders
- Held a meeting with Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel
- Addressed the need for national tourists to support J&K’s recovery
- Reaffirmed commitment to boosting employment through tourism
💬 Why This Exchange Matters
- Positive political messaging: A rare cross-party acknowledgment
- National unity through tourism: PM’s message aligns with Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat vision
- Boost for Kashmir’s economy: Domestic tourism seen as a key pillar post-crisis
✅ Conclusion: A Moment of Unity Through Travel
As India continues to strengthen domestic tourism, such gestures from top leaders signal not just cooperation but a shared understanding of its role in economic recovery and national cohesion. The mutual admiration between PM Modi and CM Abdullah may well inspire more Indians to rediscover Jammu & Kashmir.
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