JAMMU, Feb 12, 2026 — Minister for Agriculture, Javid Ahmad Dar, informed the Legislative Assembly today that the government is actively examining a comprehensive proposal to notify several new “tourism-worthy” areas across Jammu and Kashmir. Representing Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in response to a query by Legislator Dr. Rameshwar Singh, the Minister highlighted that key locations within the Bani Constituency, including Bani Town, Lowang, and Sarthal, are being prioritized for official notification. This move is part of a broader strategy to diversify the region’s tourism portfolio and tap into the untapped natural beauty of the Jammu division.
In his address to the House, Minister Dar emphasized the government’s commitment to strengthening tourism infrastructure throughout the Jammu region. To improve the visitor experience and promote sustainable tourism, he announced plans to establish a network of rest houses and tourist huts at prominent destinations. These facilities are intended to provide essential amenities while ensuring that development remains eco-friendly and beneficial to local communities. The Minister reiterated that the expansion of the tourism map is a key pillar for local economic growth and large-scale employment generation.
Highlighting recent promotional efforts, the Minister informed the members that a successful Winter Carnival was held in Bani on February 8, 2026, under the direct initiative of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. The event served as a platform to showcase the area’s rich cultural heritage and scenic landscapes to a wider audience. By positioning Jammu and Kashmir as a premier year-round travel destination, the government aims to create a sustainable tourism model that balances infrastructure development with the preservation of the region’s unique environmental and cultural identity.
