The state government decision of allowing the Director, Tourism, Jammu, to proceed on a deputation to a mid-career training programme just before the start of the much-hyped “Jammu Mahotsav-2017” event has raised many eyebrows here.
The decision is being seen as a “setback” to the event as the Director, Tourism, Jammu, is the nodal officer for the four-day mega event to be organised at Bagh-e-Bahu.
On Tuesday, the government assigned the charge of the post of the Director, Tourism, to Manesha Devi, Director, Floriculture, Jammu, after the Director, Tourism, Jammu, Sushma Chauhan proceeded on deputation to the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration.
“Jammu Mahotsav-2017” is being organised in the winter capital from April 13 to 16 to promote Jammu as an independent tourist destination. The carnival will showcase the rich cultural heritage of the state and the region.
“This decision will have a serious impact on the success of the event which is being revived after a long time. The Director, Tourism, Jammu, who was fully involved and had full knowledge of arrangements being put in place for the event, was the nodal officer and her absence will make a difference to the overall success of the event,” said Pawan Gupta, president, Jammu Hotel and Lodges Association.