Executive Councilor for Tourism and Kargil Development Authority (KDA), Kacho Mohammed Feroz chaired a meeting about tourism development in Aryan valley on December 6.

The meeting was attended by Councilor Silmo Constituency/former CEC, LAHDC, Kargil Feroz Ahmed Khan, Assistant Director Tourism, Syeda Aga Toha, Representatives of KDA and civil society members from various villages of Aryan Valley.

Discussion was held on the issuance of inner-line permits for Indian tourists visiting various villages in the valley. The AD Tourism clarified that there are no restrictions on permits for Indian tourists to the border villages.

EC stated that if tourists are denied entry, the issue should be addressed with district administration and army officials first. Subsequently, the matter will be escalated to the UT Administration for further consideration.

He suggested that people especially youth should take maximum benefit of the Revised Homestay Policy-2023 to set up Home stays for tourists.

EC Feroz urged stakeholders to provide a list of Aryan Valley destinations to the Tourism Department within a week. This information will be forwarded for inclusion on the Tourism Department's website.

Throughout the meeting, stakeholders brought up several concerns, such as the reinstatement of the Aryan Festival at Ganachok, the need to define the geographical boundary of the Aryan Valley, and the proposal to open border villages for tourists.

EC recommended that local stakeholders initiate tours on a personal basis for the Aryan Valley. This approach is anticipated to motivate larger operators to launch their packages in the Valley.