Syed Mohammed Altaf Bukhari, President of Apni Party, addressed a public rally in Samba, urging the government to explore new tourist destinations in both the Jammu and Kashmir regions to bolster the local economy, enhance infrastructure, and provide employment opportunities to the youth.
Highlighting the need for expanding tourism beyond conventional destinations, Bukhari emphasized the importance of tapping into rural and remote areas to create sustainable sources of income and foster infrastructural growth at the grassroots level.
Acknowledging the improved situation in Kashmir that has attracted tourists, Bukhari stressed the significance of making the environment conducive for people to stay in their villages by offering employment opportunities closer to home.
Bukhari lamented the lack of attention towards developing infrastructure in various religious and border tourist spots, urging authorities to leverage the potential of these locations to attract religious and leisure tourists alike.
He underscored the necessity of enhancing infrastructure in places like Samba, Jammu, Kathua, and others to stimulate religious and tourism-related activities, which, in turn, would spur economic growth and employment opportunities.
Addressing the upcoming elections, Bukhari urged the populace to support Apni Party candidates, emphasizing that local representatives would address their concerns and be accountable to their constituents.
Expressing concerns over issues such as inadequate teaching staff in schools and healthcare facilities, Bukhari pledged that if Apni Party forms the government, focus would be directed towards upgrading and enhancing the quality of education and healthcare systems in J&K.
Bukhari criticized the neglect of local officers from J&K Administrative Service (JKAS) and J&K Police Service (JKPS), advocating for their due representation in administration to address local issues effectively.
Additionally, he highlighted the adverse effects of sidelining local youth in industrial employment opportunities and vowed to rectify these discrepancies if Apni Party comes to power.
Prominent leaders and activists from Apni Party, as well as community representatives, were present at the rally, echoing Bukhari’s sentiments and voicing their support for the party’s agenda aimed at promoting equitable development and protecting the rights of the local population.