Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) is actively promoting Basohli as a prominent global tourist destination, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and modern infrastructure. Basohli, known for its unique appeal and popularity as a water sports destination in the Jammu region, is being specifically promoted for adventure tourism, as well as leisure and heritage tourism, by the Tourism Department.
To commemorate 'World Environment Day,' the Directorate of Tourism Jammu and Kashmir collaborated with the Bani Basohli Development Authority to celebrate the occasion at the Tourist Reception Centre in Basohli. The event showcased a range of cultural festivities and other activities.
The Department of Tourism has expressed its unwavering commitment to promoting off-beat tourist destinations and adventure tourism. The day-long celebrations commenced with an 'Eco-Tourism Awareness Rally' led by local school children, focused on the theme of "Beat Plastic Pollution," which is the official campaign theme for 'World Environment Day 2023.' This global initiative is celebrated with the hashtag #beatplasticpollution. The rally commenced from the Atal Setu Bridge and concluded at TRC Basohli.
The festivities were inaugurated by Syed Abid Rasheed Shah (IAS), Secretary to the Government, Tourism Department, J-K, and Col. Mahan Singh, Chairman of the District Development Council (DDC) Kathua, with the launch of a 'Plantation Drive.' The dignitaries also visited departmental stalls and interacted with local artisans showcasing their handloom and handicraft products under the theme "Humari Kala Humari Pehchann" (Our Art, Our Identity).
An exhibition of Basohli paintings was organized during the event, which received tremendous appreciation from the visiting dignitaries. The Department of Handloom, J-K, also showcased traditional charkha spinning in a live demonstration.
Speaking at the occasion, Syed Abid Rasheed Shah emphasized the Tourism Department's commitment to promoting Basohli as a significant tourist destination in J-K. He assured that the department would strive to place Basohli on the global tourism map by providing modern facilities and infrastructure. He further mentioned that the Tourism Department, particularly through initiatives like 'Swadesh Darshan' and other schemes of the Union Tourism Ministry, would address any critical gaps that require attention. He appealed to all stakeholders to join hands with the Tourism Department in collaborative efforts to elevate Basohli to new heights.
The main highlight of the festivities was the water sports activities organized by the Tourism Department during the event. The day-long celebrations also featured captivating cultural performances by artists from the J-K Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages, including folk dances, musical performances, and songs.