Ganderbal, 27th September 2024 – The Department of Tourism Studies, Central University of Kashmir, in collaboration with the Ecotourism Society of Kashmir (ETSK), organized a one-day seminar to commemorate World Tourism Day 2024 under the theme “Tourism and Peace.” The seminar, held at the Green Campus, Ganderbal, brought together leading experts, scholars, and tourism professionals to discuss the crucial role of tourism in promoting peace and sustainability in fragile ecosystems like Kashmir.
The seminar featured a Presidential Address by Prof. (Dr.) Fayaz Ahmad Nika, Dean, School of Business Studies, who stressed that sustainable tourism not only fosters peace but also ensures the long-term prosperity of the region.
The event opened with a welcome address by Dr. Ashaq Hussain Najar, Coordinator and Senior Assistant Professor, Department of Tourism Studies, Central University of Kashmir. In his remarks, Dr. Ashaq H Najar highlighted the importance of tourism as a vehicle for peace and underscored the need for sustainable practices to protect the natural and cultural resources of the region. His words set the tone for an insightful day of discussions.
Following the welcome address, the seminar featured two keynote addresses. The first was delivered by Dr. G N Itoo, Ex-Director of Tourism Kashmir, who spoke on the evolving landscape of tourism in the region and its potential to foster peace. The second keynote was given by Mr. Sameer Baktoo, President of the Ecotourism Society of Kashmir (ETSK) and Chairman of the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI), Kashmir chapter, who emphasized the role of ecotourism in promoting responsible travel and sustaining local communities.
A stimulating panel discussion moderated by Dr. Abid Suhail Nika featured distinguished speakers, including Senior Assistant Professor’s Dr. Ramjit, Dr. Faizan Ashraf, and Mr. Waseem Raja (KAS), who highlighted the importance of environmental activism in travel in maintaining the region’s cultural and environmental integrity. The panel also featured prominent speakers namely
- Mr. Nadeem Qadri, leading environmental lawyer
- Ms. Shehla, entrepreneur and environmental volunteer
- Mr. Manzoor Ahmad Pakhtoon, Chairman of Kashmir Hotel and Bar Owners Association (KHBOA)
- Dr. Tausif Ahmad,socio-environmentalist
- Mr. Sameer Baktoo, President, ETSK, and Chairman, TAAI
- Mr. Muhammad Shafi, senior member, ETSK
The panel focused on the theme of “Responsible Tourism Practices and Peace,” discussing how sustainable tourism initiatives can contribute to regional stability and environmental conservation. The session encouraged thought-provoking discussions on balancing tourism growth with ecological preservation.
Dr. Shahnaz Akhter, Senior Assistant Professor, conducted the proceedings of the inaugural session and Dr.Adil Amin Nazki, Assistant Professor, Department of Tourism Studies delivered the vote of thanks.
The post-lunch session included presentations by including Ms. Iram Sadia, Ms. Shah Sheezan,and Ms. Iqra Sajad Khan, who explored diverse aspects of sustainable tourism in Kashmir.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Asma, Assistant Professor, Department of Tourism Studies, who expressed appreciation to all speakers and participants for their valuable contributions.
This seminar was a significant step towards advancing the conversation on sustainable tourism and peace-building in Kashmir.
