Srinagar, July 4 (JKNS): The Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday said Amarnath pilgrims should be allowed to visit local markets and other places during the annual pilgrimage, asserting that such movement would help strengthen Kashmir’s economy while complementing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal to support local businesses.
Speaking to reporters, as per news agency JKNS, CM Omar said he hoped a large number of devotees would undertake the Shri Amarnath Yatra, have a smooth darshan and return home safely.
He said the elected government had made all arrangements falling within its jurisdiction, while security, law and order, and matters related to the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board were being handled by the concerned agencies.
The Chief Minister also appealed to the pilgrims to pray for lasting peace, communal harmony and the overall prosperity of Jammu and Kashmir during their visit.
Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent appeal asking pilgrims to spend at least ten per cent of their travel budget in Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah described the suggestion as a welcome initiative that could significantly benefit the local economy.
“Pilgrims should be allowed to step out of their buses and visit local markets and other places. Otherwise, how will they spend their money?” Omar said.
He added that restricting pilgrims to their vehicles limits their ability to contribute to the livelihoods of local traders, artisans and businesses, and allowing them greater interaction with local markets would provide a much-needed economic boost to the Valley. (JKNS)
