In the wake of India’s medical tourism industry poised to surpass pre-pandemic levels, Kashmir emerges as a beacon of hope and promise. Valley is enticing travelers with its serene landscapes and burgeoning healthcare infrastructure. Stakeholders in the region are optimistic about Kashmir’s potential to become a leading destination for medical tourists seeking high-quality treatment amidst a therapeutic environment.
Projections for Medical Tourism
The projections indicate a significant boost in medical tourism across India. The sector is expected to exceed pre-pandemic levels with increase in number of afresh tourists. Credit rating agency Crisil forecasts an estimated 7.3 million medical tourists visiting India in calendar year 2024, marking a notable increase from 6.1 million in 2023. This resurgence comes after a setback due to the Covid-19 induced lockdowns, with figures plummeting since 2019.
In the midst of this revival, stakeholders in Kashmir see an opportunity to position the region prominently in the medical tourism landscape. With its captivating landscapes, temperate climate, and advancing healthcare facilities, Kashmir offers a compelling proposition for medical tourists seeking both treatment and rejuvenation.
Rauf Tramboo, President of the Travel Agents Association of Kashmir (TAAK), highlights the region’s strides in healthcare infrastructure development. He underscores the allure of Kashmir’s natural beauty and cultural richness, which, when combined with top-notch medical facilities, creates an irresistible draw for medical tourists.
With collaborative efforts from government and civil agencies, Kashmir is receiving huge popularity. Particularly, it is being promoted as a favorite medical tourism destination on both national and international platforms. Stakeholders emphasize the need for partnerships between government agencies, healthcare providers, and tourism stakeholders. It is being carried out to showcase Kashmir’s potential. Further it will attract a diverse array of medical tourists from around the globe.
Need to Highlight the Tourism Destinations
Umar Ahmad, a local travel agent, echoes this sentiment, noting the influx of investments in the healthcare sector in Kashmir. He emphasizes the region’s pristine environment as a key selling point, highlighting its potential to emerge as a premier tourism destination.
Pertinently, the government has unveiled an action plan to promote Jammu and Kashmir as a medical tourism hotspot. The region is touted as fully prepared to play a pivotal role in the ‘Heal in India’ campaign. The campaign aims to promote medical tourism in the Union Territory and position it as a center for AYUSH practices.
Kashmir sets its sights on becoming a hub for medical tourism. The stakeholders are buoyed by the prospects of economic growth and development. The concerted efforts and strategic initiatives are ensuring that Kashmir poises a niche for itself. More importantly in India’s thriving medical tourism industry. Valley is offering a unique blend of healthcare excellence and natural splendor to global travelers.