Srinagar, Mar 14 (KNO): Stating that the Almond Blossom festival symbolizes Kashmir’s timeless connection with nature and its vibrant cultural traditions, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday said that Badamwari has always been a cherished part of Srinagar’s heritage.
Addressing the inaugural ceremony of the ‘Almond Blossom Festival–2026’ here in old city, CM Omar, as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said, “The blooming almond blossoms mark not only the arrival of spring but also the spirit of renewal, hope and cultural vibrancy that defines Kashmir.”
He said the festival symbolizes Kashmir’s timeless connection with nature and its vibrant cultural traditions. “Badamwari has always been a cherished part of Srinagar’s heritage. The blooming almond blossoms mark not only the arrival of spring but also the spirit of renewal, hope and cultural vibrancy that defines Kashmir,” he said.
He said such festivals help revive historic spaces while promoting tourism and creating economic opportunities for local artisans and artists.
“Events like the Almond Blossom Festival provide a wonderful platform to showcase the grandeur of Kashmir’s spring season, cultural heritage, traditional crafts and artistic talent. These also help attract tourists and encourage community participation in preserving our heritage,” he added.
The event was organised by the Floriculture Department and witnessed participation from officials, artists and a large number of visitors including students and tourists.
Among those present were ministers Javid Ahmed Dar and Satish Sharma, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq, Commissioner Secretary Floriculture Zubair Ahmad, Director Floriculture Mathura Masoom, Director Handicrafts Mussarat-ul-Islam and other senior officers, including officials from Jammu & Kashmir Bank.
During his visit, the Chief Minister took a tour of the almond alcove and interacted with enthusiastic visitors who sought selfies with him, adding to the festive atmosphere at the historic garden.
He also commended the Floriculture Department for developing Badamwari and opening it for visitors on time, which has already witnessed a large footfall of tourists and locals during the early spring season.
On the occasion, CM Omar also inaugurated an online ticketing portal (e-ticketing system) for gardens across Jammu and Kashmir aimed at simplifying the ticketing process and improving visitor convenience.
“The introduction of online ticketing for our gardens is an important step towards modernising tourist facilities and ensuring a seamless experience for visitors,” he said, adding that the initiative will make access to gardens easier and more efficient for tourists as well as locals.
The Chief Minister also inspected an exhibition set up at the venue where progressive farmers, florists and artisans had displayed their produce and handicrafts.
He appreciated the stall owners for showcasing a wide range of products and commended their contribution towards preserving Kashmir’s traditional crafts and promoting horticulture and floriculture.
Meanwhile, later-on, talking to reporters on the sidelines of the event, CM Omar said the festival marks the beginning of Kashmir’s tourist season. “Today’s event marks the beginning of our tourist season, which will continue with the inauguration of the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden the day after tomorrow. We hope a large number of tourists will visit and enjoy the beauty of Kashmir,” he said.
Commenting on tourism challenges, the Chief Minister said rising international flight fares and fuel surcharges could affect the tourist season but expressed optimism about visitor arrivals. “Ticket prices on international flights are increasing and fuel surcharges have been introduced, which may impact the tourist season. Even then, we remain hopeful that the number of visitors will rise this year,” he said.
Terming the release of activist Sonam Wangchuk as a positive step, CM Omar said, “We should never have arrested him under the NSA. Now that he is released, it is good, but the situation should not have arisen in the first place. Similarly, peace in Ladakh and the fulfilment of promises there remain important.”
On global developments, the Chief Minister said that efforts to maintain peace and stability in the region are important. “Iran allowing Indian ships to pass through the Strait of Hormuz is a positive development. Anything that helps maintain fuel prices is beneficial. But above all, we want peace. Leadership decisions in Iran should be left to its citizens and peace in the region is ultimately in our own interest,” he said.
On local security issues, CM Omar said authorities are reviewing security arrangements following attacks on public figures but stressed that such incidents should not have occurred.
“As an expression of goodwill, the cases against youngsters who were first-time offenders, many of whom hardly participated in protests should be revoked and they should be released, especially with Ramzan and Eid approaching,” he said—(KNO)