It was a turning point for both India and Jammu and Kashmir when the G20 Tourism Working Group met in Srinagar from May 22 to 24. It was the first significant international gathering in the area since Article 370 was repealed in 2019, ending Jammu and Kashmir’s special status and placing it entirely under Indian control. The gathering highlighted the development and tourism potential of the area as well as the restoration of peace and stability after decades of conflict and unrest.Among the 17 G20 nations represented were the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Japan, Australia, Canada, Brazil, and South Africa. Participants discussed various aspects of tourism development, such as resilience, inclusivity, innovation, and digitalization. They also saw the Dal Lake, the Mughal Gardens, the Shankaracharya Temple, and the Gulmarg ski resort, as well as Kashmir’s stunning natural scenery and rich cultural heritage.

The gathering demonstrated India’s determination to host the G20 summit in an open and transparent manner in 2023. It also demonstrated India’s confidence and ambition to show the world a diverse range of its regions and cultures. Additionally, it demonstrated India’s assurance and vision in showcasing its various regions and cultures to the world. India made it clear that it is not afraid of outside pressure or interference in its internal affairs by hosting the tourism conference in Kashmir. It also showed how determined it is to counter the false information and propaganda have been spreading about the situation in Kashmir. India’s choice to hold the meeting in Kashmir outraged a few other nations.

There was more to the G20 summit on tourism in Kashmir. For India’s democracy and development, it was a turning point. It was a sign of optimism and hope for the Kashmiri people, who have long been the victims of violence and alienation. It was a message of peace and friendship to the rest of the world, letting them know that India is willing to interact with all nations on an equal footing and with respect. It was also a challenge to those who support terrorism and separatism in an effort to compromise India’s integrity and sovereignty. For India, hosting the G20 summit in Kashmir was an honour. For Kashmir, it represented a time of renewal and rebirth. Additionally, it was a time of opportunity and global responsibility.