'No free insurance cover for tourists as yet'

Srinagar, Sep 17: The Jammu and Kashmir government today denied media reports suggesting that a free insurance policy of Rs five lakh had been introduced for tourists visiting the Valley for a minimum period of 15 days.

Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Development Corporation (JKTDC) Managing Director G N Qasba has clarified that no decision has been taken by the state government in this regard so far.

He said it was the suggestion of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industries (KCCI) and also by the tour and travel operators.

However, Mr Qasba said the state government was contemplating to formulate a new tourism policy for its revival.

Media reports had suggested that due to a sharp decline in the tourist arrivals in the Valley following a series of grenade attacks, the JKTDC and Bajaj Allianz would provide a free insurance cover of Rs five lakh to the visitors for about 15 days.

The cover was for activities such as adventure sports and trekking, and also for accidents and natural calamities.

UNI