In the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha launched J&K Tourist Village Network under Mission Youth in Srinagar. The initiative is aimed at transforming 75 villages of Jammu and Kashmir known for historical, picturesque beauty and cultural significance into tourist villages.<br />''<br />''Speaking on the occasion, the Lt Governor said that the youth-led sustainable tourism initiative will strengthen the rural economy & community entrepreneurship, empower youth & women by providing direct and indirect employment opportunities.<br />''<br />''The Lieutenant Governor observed that the Union Territory Government is adopting best practices recognizing the uniqueness of each village and showcasing the landscapes, indigenous knowledge systems, cultural diversity & heritage, local values & traditions besides encouraging film shooting, offering financial incentives as well as ensuring a digital platform to all these villages.<br />''<br />''Manoj Sinha also reiterated government's commitment to provide maximum and equal opportunities to youth from different backgrounds and enabling their involvement in policies that affects them.<br />''<br />''<span style="color: #000000;">The Lt Governor said that under Mission Youth's initiative, registered youth and Self Help Groups are being provided with the opportunity to be a part of the Government's endeavor to transform the villages of J&K. He advised the CEO Mission Youth to work in collaboration with the tourism department for utilizing the resources available under Prime Minister's Reconstruction Plan (PMRP), where 45 villages of Jammu and Kashmir were planned to be developed as tourist villages.</span><br />