29/06/2025
Eco-Tourism Imperative for Boosting Rural Economy: MLA Banihal
Banihal, June 29, 2025:
Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) Banihal, Mr. Sajjad Shaheen, conducted a day-long tour to the breathtakingly beautiful and ecologically rich area of Zomandoo Mangit, reaffirming his commitment to promoting eco-tourism as a sustainable driver for rural economic growth.
During the visit, Mr. Shaheen engaged with local residents, took firsthand stock of the issues facing the area, and underscored the tremendous potential of Zomandoo Mangit as a premier eco-tourism destination. Nestled amidst alpine forests, crystal-clear streams, and verdant meadows, Zomando Mangit offers unmatched natural beauty and adventure tourism potential.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Shaheen emphasized, “Eco-tourism has the potential to transform the rural economy by creating livelihood opportunities for the youth, empowering local communities, and preserving our rich natural and cultural heritage. Developing such hidden gems can put Banihal on the tourism map in a sustainable manner.”
He further stated that the Omar Abdullah-led government is fully committed to promoting eco-tourism across Jammu and Kashmir, with a clear vision of tapping natural assets for inclusive development. “Our leadership understands that the future of rural Jammu and Kashmir lies in sustainable and community-driven models of development,” he added.
Mr. Shaheen assured the people of Zomandoo Mangit that necessary steps will be taken to improve road connectivity, establish basic infrastructure, and support local homestay and hospitality ventures. He also called upon the youth to become stakeholders in conserving the environment while benefiting from tourism-related opportunities.
Highlighting the broader vision for tourism-led development, Mr. Shaheen said that other scenic areas in the Banihal constituency such as Sargali Pogal, Vasamarg Neel, Trajbalan Mahoo, Zaban, Thandichan, Tunnel Top, Ramakunda Gool, Ghora Gali, Jabbar Gool, Narsingha, and will also be developed and promoted as eco-tourism destinations to ensure balanced regional growth. He referred to the recent inauguration of the Doba Van Park at Thach Banihal, which has already started attracting tourists from various parts of the country, as a successful example of small-scale eco-tourism boosting local livelihoods.
The tour to Zomandoo Mangit is part of a larger initiative by the MLA to identify and develop unexplored tourist destinations in the Banihal constituency, with a long-term vision of promoting environmental preservation, rural enterprise, and sustainable development.
He was accompanied by party block president Khari Mohd Ashraf Naik, District Secretary Parvaiz Ahmed Sheikh, Ilyas Ahmed Wani, besides Ab Gani Wani, Abdul Hamid Khan, Manzoor Ahmed Sheikh, Riyaz Ahmed Lone ,Ab Jabbar Mir and other local party colleagues.
Sajjad Shaheen
