Tourism Department Jammu Celebrates World Tourism Day 2025 at the Iconic Mansar Lake
Jammu, September 27, 2025: Under the able guidance of Dr. Ashish Chandra Verma, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary Tourism Department, J&K, the Directorate of Tourism, Jammu celebrated World Tourism Day 2025 at the scenic Mansar Lake, in line with this year’s global theme, “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.” The event brought together government officials, stakeholders and local communities to highlight the importance of responsible and sustainable tourism.
The celebrations commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by MLA Udhampur East, Ranbir Singh Pathania, in the presence of senior officials including Devinder Singh Katoch (CEO, Surinsar Mansar Development Authority), Aijaz Qaisar (Joint Director Tourism, Jammu), Savita Chauhan (Deputy Director Tourism), Ms. Mamta Sharma (Deputy Director Tourism), and Riyaz Ahmad (General Manager, JKTDC) Arif Lone , JKAS AD Tourism
In his welcome address, Joint Director Tourism Jammu, Aijaz Qaisar, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all guests , participants, and local stakeholders for their participation. Highlighting the significance of Mansar Lake, a designated Ramsar site, he underscored its unique ecological and cultural importance, noting that it supports diverse flora and fauna and serves as a vital habitat for migratory birds. He urged visitors and stakeholders to adopt responsible practices by reducing disposable waste, supporting local vendors providing handmade and eco-friendly products, and safeguarding both the environment and local livelihoods. “This lake is not just water; it is our temple, and it is our duty to protect it,” he remarked. He further emphasized that, under the guidance of Dr. Vikas Gupta, JKAS, Director Tourism Jammu, the Directorate is actively promoting sustainable tourism initiatives across the Jammu division.
Speaking on the occasion, MLA Ranbir Singh Pathania commended the Tourism Department for organizing the event at Mansar. He called upon stakeholders and visitors to adopt eco-friendly tourism practices, minimize waste, and conserve natural resources. He reiterated that Mansar’s recognition as a Ramsar site places a shared responsibility on all to preserve its ecological balance for future generations.
Addressing the gathering, CEO SMDA, Devinder Singh Katoch, outlined ongoing efforts to safeguard Mansar Lake, including regular clean-up drives, eco-friendly infrastructure development, and community engagement programmes aimed at conserving its biodiversity.
The celebrations featured a vibrant line-up of activities including a dance performance by ‘Feel the Beat Band,’ Plantation drive, eco-walk, boat rally, live musical performances by local artists and painting and slogan-writing competitions. A panel discussion on “Tourism & Sustainable Transformation” further reinforced the importance of sustainable and responsible practices in the tourism sector.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Deputy Director Tourism Jammu, Savita Chauhan, who acknowledged the contributions of all dignitaries, participants, officials, and local stakeholders for making the celebration a success.