ISLAMABAD: The Standing Committee on Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit Baltistan endorsed the proposed Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) project titled “Establishment of Mountaineering Institute in Shigar district in Gilgit Baltistan,” worth Rs. 970.51 million for the Financial Year 2025-26.
The 3rd meeting of the Standing Committee on Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit Baltistan was convened on Tuesday at the Parliament House, Islamabad, under the Chairmanship of Haji Imtiaz Ahmed Chaudhry, MNA.
The Secretary, Ministry of Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit Baltistan, apprised the Committee that the National Economic Council (NEC), in its meeting held on 08.06.2022, transferred the PSDP of the Ministry to the Finance Division. Furthermore, the monitoring role has been entrusted to the Ministry of Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives. However, the Ministry of Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit Baltistan has proposed the establishment of the Mountaineering Institute in Shigar, costing Rs. 970.51 million. The Secretary further informed the Committee that the project aims to develop the skills of national and international mountaineers, rock climbers, and tourism industry support personnel to enhance the tourism sector in Gilgit Baltistan. The Committee considered the said project under PSDP and recommended the approval of the Ministry’s proposal.
The establishment of the Mountaineering Institute in Shigar is expected to play a crucial role in promoting adventure tourism and professional training in the region. Given Shigar’s strategic location and its proximity to some of the world’s highest peaks, including K2, the institute will serve as a premier training facility for aspiring climbers and industry professionals. This initiative is anticipated to boost local employment opportunities and attract both national and international tourism, thereby contributing significantly to the region’s economy.
The Ministry of Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit Baltistan also briefed the Committee on the observance of significant days related to the Kashmir issue, such as Kashmir Solidarity Day (Feb 5), Youm-e-Istehsal (Aug 5), and Black Day (Oct 27). These days are observed nationally and internationally each year with solidarity walks, extensive media coverage, publication of articles, utilization of social media platforms, live coverage of key events at national and provincial levels, and participation of leaders from the All Parties Hurriyat Conference in various events across Pakistan.
During discussions regarding efforts and engagements concerning the Kashmir issue, the Committee decided to invite concerned Secretaries from Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJ&K) and Gilgit Baltistan (GB) in the next meeting along with details of their respective projects.
The Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighted the Ministry’s efforts in advocating for the Kashmir cause. Notably, the Kashmir issue was emphasized in the joint communique with the President of Türkiye during his recent visit to Pakistan, and Kashmir-related events are being observed in Pakistani missions abroad.
The meeting was attended by MNAs Mr. Tahir Iqbal, Mr. Junaid Anwar Chaudhry (via Zoom), Mr. Abdul Qadir Khan, Dr. Nikhat Shakeel Khan, Ms. Farukh Khan, and Mr. Riaz Ul Haq. Engr. Amir Muqam, Hon’ble Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit Baltistan, also participated. Senior officers from the Ministry of Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit Baltistan, Ministry of Planning and Development, and Ministry of Foreign Affairs were also present.
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