The first tourist village at Panchari in Udhampur was launched recently by Divisional Commissioner Jammu Raghav Langer at Sankari Devta Ground at Meer Panchari. He said that this tourism initiative will strengthen the rural economy and community entrepreneurship, empowering youth and women by providing direct and indirect employment opportunities.
As per reports, homestay facilities will also be available here at Panchari, in a move to boost tourism in the region, as well as generate income for the local youth.
Referring to this, a local added that while holidaying in this spot, visitors often seek for a place which is located amid natural surroundings, which at the same time gives them a feeling of staying at home away from home. He added that the facilities of homestay in the village will fulfil this requirement of visitors, besides adding to the income of villagers.
Reportedly, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha in September 2021 launched Jammu and Kashmir Tourist Village Network under Mission Youth. As per the initiative, 75 villages of the Union Territory that are known for their scenic beauty, historical relevance, and cultural significance, will be transformed. Records suggest that in terms of tourist influx, Jammu and Kashmir is at the top position in the country. While in the month of July, Jammu and Kashmir witnessed around 10.5 lakh tourists, the figure touched 11.22 lakh in August.
