The Union Minister of State (IC) for Tourism and Culture, Prahlad Singh Patel, inaugurated the National Tourism Day at Ice Hockey Rink Biamathang in Kargil district of Ladakh. During the inauguration, he also announced the establishment of the Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering (IISM). A branch of IISM is being set up to groom the local talent to further the goal of ‘Atma Nirbhar Bharat.’

Kargil is no longer just a war zone

Patel also explained that it was important to show the world that Kargil is not merely a war zone anymore, it has evolved into a promising tourist destination. The Central government is working to provide the destination all the necessary infrastructure to establish an international level skiing and mountaineering institute. This will help promote Kargil as a world-class adventure sports destination. The district will benefit from being an ideal location for winter tourism. Patel further added that the government will ensure that the interests of the region are protected. 

Rigzian Sampheal, Commissioner Secretary (Tourism) Ladakh highlighted how tourism was an integral part of Ladakh’s economy and must this be promoted.

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