Srinagar, Mar 16 : Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday inaugurated the annual tulip season at the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, Asia’s largest, overlooking the Dal Lake.
According to news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS), the Chief Minister, accompanied by senior officials and horticulture experts, walked through the sprawling terraced lawns. He inspected the blooming varieties and interacted with the gardeners who have nurtured the landscape over the past months.
Addressing visitors at the garden, CM Omar Abdullah, as per KNS, described the bloom as a “symbol of resilience” for Kashmir. “This garden is not just about flowers; it is about the spirit of Kashmir. As the tulips bloom, they bring with them a message of peace, prosperity, and a warm welcome to every guest who visits our valley,” he said.
The Chief Minister highlighted the government’s commitment to boosting the tourism sector, which he termed the “backbone” of the local economy. “My presence here today is to send a clear message that tourism is our priority. We are ready for the season, and we want the world to know that Kashmir is open and ready to host everyone with open arms,” he added.
Meanwhile, tourism officials briefed the Chief Minister on the arrangements made for the season, stating that over 1.5 lakh tulip bulbs, comprising more than 70 varieties, have been planted. They also showcased the addition of other spring florals like hyacinths and daffodils, a move that CM Omar praised as a welcome step to increase the garden’s aesthetic appeal.
Notably, the garden is now open to the public, heralding the start of the Kashmir Tulip Festival, which is expected to draw lakhs of visitors over the next month. (KNS)
