Jammu : A stakeholder consultation meeting was held at Patnitop to discuss the development and positioning of the hill station under the Global Destination Scheme of the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.
The meeting was chaired by MLA Chenani Balwant Singh Mankotia and attended by Chief Executive Officer Patnitop Development Authority Virender Kumar Manyal, Sub-Divisional Police Officer Chenani, Ex-Chairman Block Development Council Chenani, President and representatives of the Hotel and Restaurant Association Patnitop, photographers, shopkeepers, adventure sports operators and officers from various line departments.
Rajat Gupta and Dheeraj Manhas from the EY team made a detailed presentation on the objectives, vision and key components of the Global Destination Scheme. The presentation focused on the Ministry of Tourism’s vision for developing globally competitive destinations through sustainable tourism practices, integrated infrastructure planning, destination branding and stakeholder-driven development.
Chief Executive Officer Patnitop Development Authority Virender Kumar Manyal highlighted Patnitop’s strategic importance as one of Jammu and Kashmir’s premier tourist destinations and emphasised the need for a coordinated, long-term development framework. He underscored the importance of strengthening tourism infrastructure, enhancing visitor facilities, improving accessibility and ensuring sustainable management of tourism assets. He also stressed the need for active stakeholder participation in shaping a comprehensive roadmap for Patnitop.
MLA Chenani Balwant Singh Mankotia appreciated the participation of all stakeholders and noted that the Global Destination Scheme offers an opportunity to unlock Patnitop’s tourism potential. He called for collective efforts and close coordination among all stakeholders to achieve the envisioned outcomes.
The Ex-Chairman, Block Development Council Chenani emphasised the importance of involving local communities in the development process and ensuring that tourism growth translates into livelihood opportunities and socio-economic benefits for the region.
Representatives from the hotel and hospitality sector shared suggestions on accommodation infrastructure, destination promotion, tourism product development and enhancement of visitor experiences. Officials from the Public Works Department, Jal Shakti Department and other concerned departments presented their views on infrastructure development, connectivity, water supply and public amenities.
The consultation concluded with an exchange of ideas and recommendations. The suggestions received will be incorporated into the destination development strategy being prepared under the Global Destination Scheme for Patnitop.
