Civil Aviation Minister calls Kashmir safe for visitors, seeks support for Kashmir’s economy

STC NEWS DESK
SRINAGAR, MAY 15 (STC): Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu on Thursday urged people from across the country to support the region’s economy by visiting the Valley.
The Minister conducted a high-level review of security and infrastructure at Srinagar and Jammu airports during his first visit to Jammu and Kashmir following the recent conflict between India and Pakistan.
The visit comes just days after flight operations resumed at both airports, which had been temporarily suspended along with 30 other airports across northern and western India due to heightened military tensions.
While speaking to reporters here, he said, “Just as the nation stood together in solidarity after the tragic Pahalgam attack, now is the time to stand with Kashmir’s economy. We are here to revive tourism in the Valley. Flight operations have resumed, and I want to assure everyone that Kashmir is a safe and welcoming destination.”
The reopening followed a mutual agreement between India and Pakistan to halt all hostilities across land, air, and sea from Saturday.
Naidu began his visit at Srinagar Airport, where he held in-depth discussions with security agencies and key stakeholders to assess preparedness and safety measures. According to a statement from the minister’s office, he also reviewed ongoing infrastructure development and passenger amenities at the facility.
Later, the minister traveled to Jammu Airport for a similar inspection of security protocols and development work.
An official confirmed that security arrangements at both airports were thoroughly evaluated during the visit.
During his tour, Naidu also visited the iconic Lal Chowk in Srinagar, signaling confidence in the region’s stability and a push toward normalization. His visit underscores the Centre’s focus on restoring full connectivity and ensuring the safe resumption of civilian air travel in the Union Territory.(STC)