Today, on the eve of World Environment Day, the Directorate of Tourism, in collaboration with the Eco-Tourism Society of Kashmir and the Kashmir Houseboats Owners Association, along with other leading travel and tourism associations of Kashmir, environmentalists, and officials from the Department of Tourism, launched a significant cleanliness drive and awareness campaign. The event was flagged off by the Director of Tourism, Mr. Raja Yaqoob, at Ghat No.1, Dal Lake.

The drive aimed to spread a positive message among the masses, particularly tourism stakeholders, about the importance of promoting responsible tourism and environmental conservation. It is crucial for the tourism industry in Kashmir, which heavily relies on nature and natural resources, to prioritize environmental sustainability.
The event concluded at Zabarwan Park on Boulevard Road, where a felicitation ceremony was organised by Ecotourism Society of Kashmir. Mr. Malik Waseem, Deputy Director Tourism Recreation and Planning and Mr. Nissar Rasool, l Assistant Deputy Director
Tourism, Registration honored the heads of various travel and tourism associations that collaborated to make the event successful. The felicitation ceremony was conducted on behalf of the Eco-Tourism Speaker, who presented mementos to the recipients, symbolizing their role as guardians of nature.

Prominent associations that supported and collaborated in this event included:
- Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Kashmir
- JK Hoteliers Club
- Jammu & Kashmir Tourism Alliance
- Tourist Trade Interest Guild
- Pilgrim and Leisure Tour Operators Association
- Jammu and Kashmir Eco Watch
- Travel Agents Association of India, JK Chapter
- Indian Association of Tour Operators, JK Chapter
- Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India, JK Chapter
- Travel Agent Federation of India, JK Chapter
This collective effort underscores the commitment of Kashmir’s tourism sector to safeguarding the environment and promoting sustainable tourism practices for the betterment of the region and its natural heritage.