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Srinagar, May 18 (UNI) To attract global nature and adventure lovers, the Jammu and Kashmir government has introduced paragliding, rafting and rock climbing, Deputy Chief Minister Muzaffar Hussain Baig said.

He felt the need to develop adventure tourism along with the conventional saying it opens new vistas to attract global nature and adventure lovers.

Addressing members of Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) here he said the government has taken initiatives for the revival of tourism industry.

The government has already introduced several new measures like establishment of Tourism Development Authorities in the state for the proper promotion of tourism, he said adding certain adventure sports like paragliding, rafting and rock climbing have also been introduced to cater to the adrenaline levels of adventure tourists.

Describing mountaineering as one of the most daring tasks, Mr Baig said it tests both patience, endurance as well the judgmental faculties of an individual.

He said the state is replete with mountaineering tracks and the people of the state as well as outside should come and explore these.

Mr Baig while thanking the IMF for setting up of its centre at Leh, urged for creation of such a facility at Srinagar as well.

This would attract mountaineers from within Jammu and Kashmir and neighbouring states, he added.

He also asked the concerned authorities to revive the store facility to provide state-of-the-art mountaineering equipment.

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