No Special Grants from Centre for Offbeat Tourism Destinations: J&K Government

Srinagar, Oct 27: The Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department on Monday clarified that the Government of India has not launched any exclusive scheme or allocated specific funds for the development of offbeat tourist destinations.

Responding to a question by MLA Nazir Ahmad Khan, the department stated that it is not aware of any special central initiative or funding programme focused solely on offbeat locations.

However, the department noted that Gurez Valley received the “Best Off-beat Destination in India (Gold)” award in 2022 for its pristine beauty, scenic landscapes, and sustainable tourism model.

It further added that Gurez has been identified as a key offbeat destination by the J&K Tourism Department, and a comprehensive development project for the area is already underway under the Capex Budget for the 2025–26 financial year.

“The Directorate of Tourism, Kashmir, is implementing the project, and all necessary formalities are being completed in coordination with the District Administration, Bandipora,” the department said.