Paragliding Pioneer Calls for Adventure Tourism Boost in Bani, J&K

When Pravesh Singh Rajput, a seasoned paraglider, steps onto the windswept cliffs of Bani in Kathua district, his eyes aren’t just scanning the horizon for the next lift. He’s also picturing a whole new future for the valley – one where the roar of engines is replaced by the gentle hum of soaring parachutes and local youths find a steady paycheck in the skies.

“The potential here is immense,” Rajput told ANI during a recent visit. “We have the right terrain, the right wind patterns, and most importantly, a community that’s eager to learn.” He added that adventure tourism could become a dual‑purpose engine – a sport for enthusiasts and a viable business for entrepreneurs, especially the younger generation that often struggles to find work in remote areas.

Rajput’s appeal is straightforward yet urgent: the Jammu & Kashmir government, together with the central authorities, should earmark funds to identify suitable take‑off points, lay down safety infrastructure, and, crucially, set up training camps for local aspirants. “If the Tourism Department can partner with us to offer certified courses, we’ll see a ripple effect – more visitors, more income, and a real boost to the region’s reputation,” he explained.

His optimism is not blind. He acknowledges the challenges – bureaucratic delays, funding gaps, and the need for proper oversight. But he also points to successful models in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, where adventure sports have transformed once‑quiet hill towns into bustling hubs without sacrificing their cultural fabric.

Beyond the economics, Rajput sees adventure tourism as a means of empowerment. “Prime Minister Modi has always spoken about youth opportunities. This is a chance to turn that rhetoric into reality for Bani’s youngsters.” He envisions a scenario where a teenager from a nearby village could become a certified pilot, guide tourists through the valleys, and perhaps even start a small rental business.

The call to action isn’t limited to grand gestures. Rajput suggests starting small – mapping out safe zones, organizing a pilot festival, and inviting national and international pilots to showcase the region’s potential. Such events could attract media attention, seed investments, and, most importantly, inspire the next generation of flyers.

While the article is sourced from a syndicated feed, the core message remains clear: Bani is a hidden gem waiting for the right push. If policymakers heed Rajput’s suggestions, the valley could soon echo not just with the wind, but with the laughter of tourists, the buzz of new businesses, and the confident calls of a thriving youth workforce.