Union Minister Piyush Goyal visited Srinagar on Sunday and enjoyed a shikara ride on the famous Dal Lake. Reflecting on the serene experience, he told reporters that the boat he rode in was named Peace of Heaven. “The peace I experience when I come to Dal Lake takes me back to my school days,” Goyal shared. He added, “I haven’t forgotten my childhood memories. God has given a heaven to the country.”
#WATCH | Union Minister Piyush Goyal enjoys a 'shikara' ride on Dal Lake in Jammu & Kashmir's Srinagar pic.twitter.com/FnU7TPW6dy
— ANI (@ANI) July 6, 2025
Locals Praised for Standing Against Terrorism
Tourism in Kashmir had slowed down after the Pahalgam terror attack on April 23, where 26 people were killed. However, Goyal praised the people of Kashmir for their role in Operation Sindoor, saying, “We are indebted to the people of Kashmir for the way they supported Operation Sindoor and stood firm against terrorism.”
He expressed hope that terrorism would be rooted out just like Naxalism, stating, “Like we have decided to end Naxalism by 2026, I am confident that together we will eradicate terrorism from its roots.”
Amarnath Yatra Brings Economic Hope
Goyal believes the Amarnath Yatra will help revive tourism and support the local economy. He explained, “Now, the Amarnath Yatra has also started, and tourists have also come to Gulmarg.” He also pointed out the rising trend of homestays and said, “Today, homestay will start in thousands of houses, their income will increase, and Kashmir’s economy will also grow.”
Government to Address Local Issues
While in Srinagar, Goyal met with multiple delegations and assured them of government support. “Today, I met many delegations,” he said. Goyal stressed that both the state and central governments were working together to strengthen trade and industry. He added, “The Modi government brought a ₹28,000 crore scheme earlier, and we’ll continue to support local development.”
Support for Handicrafts and GST Cut
Goyal discussed reducing GST on handicrafts to help boost the local industry. “We have discussed with you people about handicrafts here,” he said. He asked for a proposal and promised, “I will try to reduce the GST to 5 percent so that the production of handicrafts here can increase.”
He also confirmed plans for a new facility, saying, “There has been a discussion about opening an assembly centre. We will open that too.”
