Jugal Kishore Sharma, Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha, representing the Jammu–Reasi Parliamentary Constituency, today raised an important issue in the Lok Sabha, urging the Ministry of Tourism to take immediate steps to develop the Jammu region as a major tourism hub.He also urged that development of Jammu region is very necessary so that people of Jammu can also get livelihood from Tourism.
Speaking in the House, MP Jugal Kishore Sharma said that Jammu is widely known for its numerous religious and tourist sites that hold immense historical, cultural, and spiritual significance. He stressed that these sites require focused development to unlock their full potential and boost regional tourism.
Highlighting key religious destinations in Samba district, he stated that Uttar Behni and Purmandal are very famous religious places of region—with Purmandal also popularly known as "Chhota Kashi”—are important pilgrimage sites. He informed the House that a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the development of both Purmandal and Uttar Behni has already been submitted to the Ministry of Tourism under the PRASAD Scheme, and urged the Ministry to approve and release the necessary funds at the earliest.
MP Sharma further emphasized other significant sites across the Jammu region, including Shiv Khori Shrine in Reasi,Baba Chamliyal at the International Border in Samba,Baba Goran, as well as natural and heritage attractions like Surinsar and Mansar. He appealed to the Ministry to bring these destinations under the PRASAD Scheme to ensure their holistic development.
He stated that the development of these tourist and religious sites will not only enhance the cultural landscape of the region but will also generate substantial livelihood opportunities for the people of Jammu by boosting tourism-related activities.
MP Jugal Kishore Sharma urged the Ministry of Tourism to take swift action to develop Jammu region as the tourism hub for the benefit of the region and its residents so that they can also get livelihood from Tourism.