Kupwara, Nov 08: Calling for a new development vision for the border region, Major General Rakesh Nair said Karnah has immense potential to emerge as a major tourism…

Kupwara, Nov 08: Calling for a new development vision for the border region, Major General Rakesh Nair said Karnah has immense potential to emerge as a major tourism destination, with a focus on creating employment opportunities, empowering women and providing a better future for local youth. Addressing the Karnah Youth Festival at border Teetwal, Major General Nair said the area should no longer be viewed merely as a remote border area but recognised for its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and tourism potential.

He identified Teetwal, Tangdhar and other areas of Karnah as destinations capable of attracting visitors from across the country. He said collective efforts were needed to bring the area's beautiful valleys, historical landmarks and traditional way of life onto the national tourism map.

Highlighting that tourism should bring tangible benefits to local communities, he said its real purpose was not just to promote scenic destinations but also to generate employment for young people, open new avenues for local artisans and strengthen the economic independence of women. Major General Nair described the youth as the driving force behind Karnah's future and encouraged them to explore opportunities in tourism, sports, education, technology and skill development.

He urged them to remain proud of their cultural traditions while adapting to the changing demands of the modern world. He also underlined the importance of involving women and girls in the area's development, particularly through handicrafts, traditional crafts, food processing and small businesses linked to tourism. Providing women with opportunities to showcase their skills and become economically self-reliant was a shared responsibility, he said.

Praising the people of Karnah for their courage, resilience, hospitality and patriotism, Major General Nair said their attachment to their land and traditions remained a defining feature of the region. He expressed confidence that with unity, determination and active participation from local communities, Karnah could emerge as a prominent destination for tourism, employment and economic prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir.

Source disclosure

This is a source-linked briefing. Read the original report from Rising Kashmir .