Early Times Report
RAJOURI, Nov 13: Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University, Rajouri, organised a National Conference on "Narrating the Himalayas: Tourism, Literature, Culture and Sustainable Development in Jammu & Kashmir." The conference was jointly organised by the Centre for Hospitality and Tourism and the Department of English, BGSBU, in collaboration with the Waqf Board, Rajouri, with sponsorship support from Jammu and Kashmir Bank.
The conference brought together distinguished dignitaries, academicians, researchers, scholars and students from diverse backgrounds to deliberate upon the rich cultural heritage, literary traditions, tourism potential and sustainable development of the Himalayan region, particularly Jammu and Kashmir.
Dr. Indresh Kumar, Chief Patron and Margdarshak, Muslim Rashtriya Manch, graced the occasion as Chief Guest. Prof. Jawaid Iqbal, Vice Chancellor, BGSBU; Prof. Shahid Akhter, Member, National Commission for Minority Educational Institutions, Government of India; Dr. Devansh Yadav (IAS), Deputy Commissioner, Rajouri; Shri Ravi Kumar Sihag (IAS), Registrar, BGSBU, Dr. Romesh Khajuria, Regional Convener (Organisation), Muslim Rashtriya Manch, Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh; Shri Abdul Qayoom Mir, JKAS (Retd.), Administrator, Waqf Board, Rajouri; Shri Ashok Kumar, Branch Head, J&K Bank; and Shri Raheem Khan, were among the prominent dignitaries present on the occasion.
The conference focused on the Himalayas not merely as a geographical region of extraordinary natural beauty but as a living repository of diverse cultures, languages, histories, traditions and literary narratives. It highlighted the importance of understanding the relationship between tourism, literature and cultural identity while promoting environmentally responsible and sustainable development. Special emphasis was placed on the immense tourism potential of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly the Pir Panjal region, which is known for its scenic landscapes, cultural diversity, historical significance and spiritual heritage. The conference sought to draw academic attention towards lesser-explored destinations, indigenous traditions and regional narratives that deserve wider recognition. The academic deliberations were designed to encourage interdisciplinary dialogue on the role of literature in representing regional identities, the contribution of tourism to local economies, the preservation of cultural heritage and the need to protect the fragile Himalayan ecosystem. The conference also aimed to strengthen the connection between academic research, community participation and sustainable tourism practices. |
