Srinagar, Aug 03 (KNO): The Union Territory of Ladakh is organising Apricot Blossom and Buckwheat Flower Festivals to promote tourism, traditional agriculture, local cuisine, handicrafts, and the region's rich cultural heritage, the Ministry of Tourism informed the Lok Sabha on Monday.
In a written reply to an unstarred question raised by MP Mohmad Haneefa, Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, as reported by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said the festivals have contributed to an increase in tourist arrivals and generated livelihood opportunities through local entrepreneurship. The events have also helped promote indigenous products and support the socio-economic development of local communities.
The Ministry said Central Financial Assistance (CFA) is available to State Governments and Union Territory Administrations under the Domestic Promotion and Publicity including Hospitality (DPPH) Scheme for organising fairs, festivals, and tourism-related events, subject to scheme guidelines and availability of funds. However, the Centre clarified that no proposal has so far been received from the UT of Ladakh seeking financial assistance for the Apricot Blossom Festival or the Buckwheat Flower Festival.
The Ministry further stated that assistance under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme and Challenge-Based Destination Development (CBDD) is provided for tourism infrastructure and visitor amenities, but these schemes do not provide financial assistance for organising festivals or events—(KNO)