In a significant political shift, Farooq Ahmad Shah, a former bureaucrat-turned-politician, has emerged as the giant-killer of the Gulmarg constituency by defeating Ghulam Hassan Mir, who had held the seat for an unprecedented 24 years.
This victory marks a monumental moment in Jammu and Kashmir’s political landscape, with Shah’s win being seen as both a personal triumph and a broader reflection of the region’s yearning for change.
Shah, who voluntarily retired from a high-ranking bureaucratic post, made the bold decision to join the National Conference to serve the people of Tangmarg.
His decision to step away from a prestigious career is being regarded as a significant personal sacrifice in favor of public service.
His deep commitment to the welfare of the people of Tangmarg, along with his vision for sustainable development in Jammu and Kashmir, resonates strongly with voters across the region.
One of the most prominent aspects of Farooq Ahmad Shah’s background is his extensive experience in tourism, an industry he managed for decades as a top-level administrator.
His expertise in tourism is not just a matter of managing infrastructure and promoting destinations, but also about understanding the deeper socioeconomic impact of tourism on the lives of everyday Kashmiris. Tourism is one of the most crucial pillars of Jammu and Kashmir’s economy, and Shah’s intimate knowledge of the industry is seen as a key asset that could be pivotal in revitalizing the sector.
As a former bureaucrat who has firsthand experience of navigating the complex challenges of governance in Jammu and Kashmir, Shah is well-positioned to play a transformative role in the Union Territory’s cabinet.
His supporters, as well as many political observers, believe that Shah’s induction into the cabinet could be a game-changer for the tourism sector.
He is expected to bring his considerable experience and innovative ideas to the table, which could help boost the region’s economy by promoting tourism not only in well-known areas like Gulmarg and Pahalgam, sonamarg, patnitop ,mansar but also in lesser-known, yet equally promising locations across the Union Territory.
Shah’s victory is seen as a reflection of the people’s desire for fresh leadership—one that combines both political acumen and technical expertise. With his deep roots in the region and his professional track record, many believe that Farooq Ahmad Shah represents a new hope for Tangmarg and beyond. His focus on tourism development aligns with the broader goals of economic revival in Jammu and Kashmir, which has suffered due to instability and underdevelopment.
In the aftermath of his victory, calls for Shah’s induction into the new cabinet have grown louder. His supporters argue that his experience and vision for tourism make him an ideal candidate to take charge of the sector, which has the potential to create jobs, generate revenue, and present Jammu and Kashmir as a premier global destination. For the people of Gulmarg and Tangmarg, his win symbolizes not just a political shift but a move toward a brighter future.
