In 2024, Diwali is observed on two different dates, October 31 and November 1, due to the unique alignment of the lunar calendar. Indians are celebrating the festival of lights with parties, dinners, food and prayers. Watch this report for more details!

Diwali Spread Over Two Days This Year, Celebrations Continue

Residents in the capital Delhi and neighbouring cities Noida, Gurugram, woke up to a blanket of toxic smoke the morning after Diwali, As people defied a ban on firecrackers on Thursday night causing severe noise pollution and reducing visibility.

Delhi’s Air Quality Drops to 'Very Poor' Post-Diwali

Delhi's Air Pollution Worsens to Very Poor Category Post-Diwali

The U.S. government is targeting companies across multiple countries to disrupt Russia's war efforts in Ukraine. This initiative aims to undermine support for Russia by penalizing businesses that facilitate its military operations. The move reflects a broader strategy to strengthen international sanctions and reinforce global cooperation against Russia's actions.

US Targets Firms In Multiple Countries To Disrupt Russia's War Efforts

Delhi Air Pollution: Residents Defy Ban on Firecrackers

As Diwali illuminates homes across India, there’s another source of light worth celebrating: India's journey from an economic underdog to a global powerhouse. Reflecting this story is the Sensex. Which has seen exponential growth since its humble beginnings in 1979 when it was valued at just 100. Today, it stands around 80,000, with expectations to reach a stellar 1,50,000 by 2029 -- offering a festive reminder of India’s journey as a rising economic star.

How To Unlock The Power Of Compounding This Diwali

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday celebrated Diwali with the personnel of the Border Security Force (BSF), Army, Navy and Air Force near the Indo-Pak border in Gujarat's Kutch district. Watch this report for more details!

PM Modi Celebrates Diwali With Border Troops in Gujarat

Dhanteras marked a significant uptick in gold sales this year, with approximately 20 to 22 Tonnes sold. This translates to around rupees 16,000 crore or 1.9 billion dollars.

Dhanteras Gold Sales Hit $1.9 BN Amid Strong Festive Demand

Diwali, the festival of lights, is one of the most significant celebrations in India, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. This year, Diwali falls on November 1, 2024, and along with the festivities, a special event known as Muhurat trading takes place. This tradition is rooted in the belief that trading during this auspicious hour can attract prosperity and success for the upcoming year.

Spotlight On India's Muhurat Trading

Ayodhya, the revered birthplace of Lord Ram, shines brilliantly during the Diwali season as the city is adorned with thousands of lights and decorations.

Ayodhya: First Diwali After Ram Temple Inauguration

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on the occasion of Unity Day that 'One Nation, One Election' proposal by the Centre will be cleared by the cabinet soon and will be presented before the Winter Session of Parliament this year.

PM Modi: Cabinet Will Soon Pass 'One Nation, One Election'

In a troubling incident in Madhya Pradesh, seven elephants have died within two days, prompting veterinarians to suspect poisoning as the cause. The alarming deaths have raised concerns among wildlife officials and conservationists, who are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incidents. Efforts are underway to determine the source of the poison and prevent further losses, as the state grapples with protecting its elephant population amid growing environmental challenges.

Madhya Pradesh: 7 Elephants Dead in Two Days

<p>Three people died and 11 got injured in two firecracker-related accidents in Andhra Pradesh on Thursday (Oct 31).&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes amid the government asking people to not burn firecrackers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the police, the accident happened when a man carrying "onion bombs" (a special Diwali firecracker) in a bag on his vehicle hit a pothole near Ganganamma temple, causing the bag with "onion bombs" to fall.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The firecrackers exploded on the spot, killing the rider. The rider has been identified as Sudhakar.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/not-doing-a-favour-to-anyone-former-delhi-cm-kejriwal-urges-people-to-not-burst-crackers-ahead-of-diwali-772046"><strong>Also read: 'Not doing a favour to anyone': Former Delhi CM Kejriwal urges people to not burst crackers on Diwali&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

<p>According to reports, the shipment of Diwali 'bombs' had the same explosive power as an IED, or improvised explosive device.</p>

<p>The police said that his body "blew into pieces," while other injured were taken to Eluru government hospital.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Diwali crackers exploded in Eluru of AP when the bike hits a pothole - be careful guys <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/dwiali?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#dwiali</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/deepavali?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#deepavali</a> <a href="https://t.co/oOHv2YQnid">pic.twitter.com/oOHv2YQnid</a></p>
— Lokesh journo (@Lokeshpaila) <a href="https://twitter.com/Lokeshpaila/status/1851923839317418210?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Police have also registered a case and launched an investigation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is reportedly the second firecracker-related tragedy in 24 hours.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Ayodhya: Birthplace Of Lord Ram Dazzles In Diwali Lights</strong></p>

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<p>On Wednesday evening, two women were burnt alive, and five others were critically injured in a fire at a fireworks manufacturing unit in West Godavari district.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Wednesday, former Delhi Chief Minister and AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal asked people to refrain from busting firecrackers and light diyas on Diwali, noting that Diwali is a festival of lights and not firecrackers.</p>

<p>Speaking at a press conference, Kejriwal said, "Even the Supreme Court and High Court say that in view of the pollution, we should not burst crackers; we should light diyas. This is the festival of lights and not fireworks. It is not as if we are doing a favour to anybody. Whatever pollution will happen, our children will suffer from it, so there is no Hindu-Muslim in this. Everyone's life is important."</p>

<p>This comes as the national capital has been witnessing a rise in air pollution. &nbsp;Delhi's air quality has deteriorated over the last several days, prompting the Delhi government to take measures to control air pollution.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Three people died and 11 got injured in two firecracker-related accidents in Andhra Pradesh on Thursday (Oct 31). This comes amid the government asking people to not burn firecrackers.

Three people died and 11 got injured in two firecracker-related accidents in Andhra Pradesh on Thursday (Oct 31). This comes amid the government asking people to not burn firecrackers. According to the police, the accident happened when a man carrying "onion bombs" (a special Diwali firecracker) in a bag on his vehicle hit a pothole near Ganganamma temple, causing the bag with "onion bombs" to fall. The firecrackers exploded on the spot, killing the rider. The rider has been identified as Sudhakar. Also read: 'Not doing a favour to anyone': Former Delhi CM Kejriwal urges people to not burst crackers on Diwali According to reports, the shipment of Diwali 'bombs' had the same explosive power as an IED, or improvised explosive device. The police said that his body "blew into pieces," while other injured were taken to Eluru government hospital. Diwali crackers exploded in Eluru of AP when the bike hits a pothole - be careful guys #dwiali #deepavali pic.twitter.com/oOHv2YQnid — Lokesh journo (@Lokeshpaila) October 31, 2024 × Police have also registered a case and launched an investigation. This is reportedly the second firecracker-related tragedy in 24 hours. Watch | Ayodhya: Birthplace Of Lord Ram Dazzles In Diwali Lights × On Wednesday evening, two women were burnt alive, and five others were critically injured in a fire at a fireworks manufacturing unit in West Godavari district. On Wednesday, former Delhi Chief Minister and AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal asked people to refrain from busting firecrackers and light diyas on Diwali, noting that Diwali is a festival of lights and not firecrackers. Speaking at a press conference, Kejriwal said, "Even the Supreme Court and High Court say that in view of the pollution, we should not burst crackers; we should light diyas. This is the festival of lights and not fireworks. It is not as if we are doing a favour to anybody. Whatever pollution will happen, our children will suffer from it, so there is no Hindu-Muslim in this. Everyone's life is important." This comes as the national capital has been witnessing a rise in air pollution. Delhi's air quality has deteriorated over the last several days, prompting the Delhi government to take measures to control air pollution. (With inputs from agencies)

Diwali 'onion bomb' tragedy; 3 dead in firecracker explosion in Andhra Pradesh

A day after India and China completed the process of disengagement at two friction points along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the troops of both the countries exchanged sweets at several border areas on the occasion of Diwali. Watch this report for more details!

Indian And Chinese Troops Exchange Sweets at LAC

Bandhavgarh: Elephant Deaths Spark Concern

Ayodhya: Birthplace Of Lord Ram Dazzles In Diwali Lights

Recently, Skyscanner came out with their travel trends for 2025. The report shows a remarkable 66 percent of Indians planning to travel more next year. Take a look at this next report to find what's on the horizon for adventure seekers across the nation.. Watch in for more details!

India Travel Trends: 66% Plan To Travel More In 2025

As Diwali preparations ramp up across India, markets are gearing up for an impressive festive shopping spree. Turnover is projected to touch $50.57 billion. Delhi alone is expected to contribute around $8.92 billion. Following successful celebrations of previous festivals like Raksha Bandhan and Navratri, traders are enhancing their offerings with elaborate decorations, discounts, and a wide range of products aimed at attracting shoppers. Watch in for more details!

India’s Festive Shopping To Generate $50.57 Bn In Turnover

Apple’s iPhone exports from India hit 6 billion dollars in the six months through September. This marks a 33% increase compared to the same period last year. This milestone aligns with apple’s ongoing strategy to shift manufacturing away from china. Watch in for more details!

Apple Ships $6 Bn In India-made iPhones, Eyes China Shift

The northern Indian city of Ayodhya is preparing for its first Diwali after consecration of Ram Temple. Ayodhya the birthplace of Shri Ram is set to Glow with joy and is set to Dazzle in Divine lights as three days of festivities begin today. Watch in for more details!

Diwali 2024: Holy City Set For Grand 'Deepotsav' Ceremony

New Delhi is beautifully adorned with diyas of various shapes and sizes, illuminating the city in celebration of Diwali. From traditional earthen lamps to innovative designs, these decorative lights can be seen in homes, markets, and public spaces, creating a vibrant festive atmosphere. The display not only reflects the rich cultural heritage of India but also symbolizes hope and positivity as the capital prepares for the auspicious festival.

Diwali: Diyas In Different Shapes and Sizes Adorn India's Capital

Diwali, the festival of lights is celebrated across India with great fervour and enthusiasm. WION tells you how people throng markets across Mumbai before Diwali.

Diwali 2024: People Throng Markets Across Mumbai For Diwali Festivities

After a prolonged four-year standoff, India and China have successfully completed border disengagement, marking a significant step towards easing tensions in the region. The agreement includes the withdrawal of troops and military equipment from contested areas, paving the way for improved diplomatic relations. This development is expected to enhance stability along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and foster cooperation between the two nations moving forward.

India-China Complete Border Disengagement After A Four-Year Standoff

As Diwali approaches, India is set to experience a vibrant surge in festive shopping, with projections estimating a remarkable turnover of $50.57 billion. Retailers across the country are bracing for an influx of consumers eager to purchase everything from traditional clothing and sweets to electronics and home decor. This annual shopping spree not only reflects the cultural significance of the festival but also highlights the resilience of the Indian economy as it continues to rebound from previous challenges. With attractive discounts and promotions, businesses are optimistic about achieving record sales during this auspicious period.

Diwali: India's Festive Shopping To Generate $50.57 Billion In Turnover

<p>Former Delhi chief minister and AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday asked the Delhi residents to refrain from busting firecrackers and light diyas on Diwali, noting that Diwali is a festival of lights and not firecrackers.</p>

<p>Speaking at a press conference, Kejriwal&nbsp;said, "Even the Supreme Court and High Court say that in view of the pollution, we should not burst crackers; we should light diyas. This is the festival of lights and not fireworks. It is not as if we are doing a favour to anybody. Whatever pollution will happen, our children will suffer from it, so there is no Hindu-Muslim in this. Everyone's life is important."</p>

<p>This came amidst rising air pollution in the national capital. Delhi's air quality has deteriorated over the last several days, prompting the Delhi government to take measures to control air pollution.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-mentions-first-diwali-of-ayodhya-ram-temple-on-dhanteras-771743"><strong>Also read: In Dhanteras greeting, PM Modi mentions ‘particularly special’ Diwali in Ayodhya</strong></a></p>

<p>Earlier, Delhi environment minister Gopal Rai wrote to Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, urging him to take stringent action against violations of the firecracker ban in the national capital.</p>

<p>With the intent of curbing pollution, Minister Gopal Rai on October 14&nbsp;announced a ban on the production, storage, distribution, and use of firecrackers in the city until January 1.</p>

<p>"It has been brought to my notice that despite the ban, firecrackers are being openly sold in various markets of Delhi. These firecrackers are being brought through various borders connecting Delhi to Haryana and Uttar Pradesh," read the letter of Gopal Rai to LG Saxena.</p>

<p>The letter further read, "It implies that Delhi Police as law enforcement agencies have not taken the directions to ban firecrackers seriously and vendors are openly flouting the ban imposed."</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Diwali 2024: How Diwali Is Celebrated Across India</strong></p>

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<p>Notably, a thin layer of smog covered the National Capital on Tuesday as parts of Delhi's air quality remained in the 'very poor' category, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of over 300 recorded around 7:00 am, as reported by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).</p>

<p>At Anand Vihar, the AQI reached 317 at 7:00 am, while Aya Nagar recorded an AQI of 312, both falling under the 'very poor' category. Jahangirpuri also saw a high AQI of 308. In contrast, the air quality at Chandni Chowk was better, registered at 191, which is considered 'moderate.'</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Delhi Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders reported on Monday that 108 incidents of stubble burning were recorded in Punjab. They staged a protest against Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann over air pollution concerns at Kapurthala House.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A delegation of leaders sought a meeting with the Punjab CM to submit a memorandum but was unable to meet him.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


Former Delhi chief minister and AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday asked the Delhi residents to refrain from busting firecrackers and light diyas on Diwali, noting that Diwali is a festival of lights and not firecrackers.

Former Delhi chief minister and AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday asked the Delhi residents to refrain from busting firecrackers and light diyas on Diwali, noting that Diwali is a festival of lights and not firecrackers. Speaking at a press conference, Kejriwal said, "Even the Supreme Court and High Court say that in view of the pollution, we should not burst crackers; we should light diyas. This is the festival of lights and not fireworks. It is not as if we are doing a favour to anybody. Whatever pollution will happen, our children will suffer from it, so there is no Hindu-Muslim in this. Everyone's life is important." This came amidst rising air pollution in the national capital. Delhi's air quality has deteriorated over the last several days, prompting the Delhi government to take measures to control air pollution. Also read: In Dhanteras greeting, PM Modi mentions ‘particularly special’ Diwali in Ayodhya Earlier, Delhi environment minister Gopal Rai wrote to Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, urging him to take stringent action against violations of the firecracker ban in the national capital. With the intent of curbing pollution, Minister Gopal Rai on October 14 announced a ban on the production, storage, distribution, and use of firecrackers in the city until January 1. "It has been brought to my notice that despite the ban, firecrackers are being openly sold in various markets of Delhi. These firecrackers are being brought through various borders connecting Delhi to Haryana and Uttar Pradesh," read the letter of Gopal Rai to LG Saxena. The letter further read, "It implies that Delhi Police as law enforcement agencies have not taken the directions to ban firecrackers seriously and vendors are openly flouting the ban imposed." Watch | Diwali 2024: How Diwali Is Celebrated Across India × Notably, a thin layer of smog covered the National Capital on Tuesday as parts of Delhi's air quality remained in the 'very poor' category, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of over 300 recorded around 7:00 am, as reported by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). At Anand Vihar, the AQI reached 317 at 7:00 am, while Aya Nagar recorded an AQI of 312, both falling under the 'very poor' category. Jahangirpuri also saw a high AQI of 308. In contrast, the air quality at Chandni Chowk was better, registered at 191, which is considered 'moderate.' Meanwhile, Delhi Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders reported on Monday that 108 incidents of stubble burning were recorded in Punjab. They staged a protest against Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann over air pollution concerns at Kapurthala House. A delegation of leaders sought a meeting with the Punjab CM to submit a memorandum but was unable to meet him. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

'Not doing a favour to anyone': Former Delhi CM Kejriwal urges people to not burst crackers on Diwali

Diwali 2024, celebrated as the Festival of Lights, symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.

Diwali 2024: How Diwali Is Celebrated Across India

After a protracted four-year military stalemate in the area, the United States recently commended China and India for starting the disengagement process at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh.

US Welcomes India-China Efforts to Lower LAC Tensions

Diwali celebrations begin around the world with colourful lights and festive fervor. Markets around India and the world decked up as shoppers throng for Diwali.

Diwali 2024: People Around the World Celebrate Diwali

Radiance In Every Corner: Diwali Lights Up Mumbai

Dharavi, Asia's largest slum is all set for transformation, but will its million residents get their rights? What are the environmental impacts of Dharavi's relocation plan? Who gets what in Dharavi? We take you inside the Dharavi Redevelopment Project on our special show; Dharavi Dreams: A reality check!

Inside Dharavi: Mumbai's Struggling Slum, Home To Over 40% Of The City’s Population

<p>The Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir witnessed multiple attacks in the last two weeks. Some of these&nbsp;attacks took place close to the tourist places like Gulmarg and Sonamarg and the tourism&nbsp;stakeholders in the Kashmir Valley were worried that it might impact the tourist inflow during the autumn season. But the ground reality is completely different as hundreds of tourists are arriving in the valley to witness the changing colours of Chinar trees during the autumn.</p>

<p>The tourists continue to flock to destinations like Gulmarg and Sonmarg even after the two attacks that took place close to these tourist sites in which eleven people were killed. But the tourists are unfazed by these attacks. As per recent data, every day around 7-8 thousand people arrive in Kashmir and among them 3-4 thousand are tourists.</p>

<p>"I love it here, I am very happy to visit here and Kashmir is very lovely. It's a paradise on earth. We are feeling very safe and there seems to be no problem or issue with the situation. Kashmir is very pretty, and I would tell all my friends to come and visit Kashmir,"&nbsp;said Shafaq Khan, a tourist.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwi2iPC9ubOJAxU8RmcHHR0sJGIQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omar-abdullah-stakes-claim-to-form-jk-government-seeks-swearing-in-date-from-lg-766756" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omar-abdullah-stakes-claim-to-form-jk-government-seeks-swearing-in-date-from-lg-766756&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi2iPC9ubOJAxU8RmcHHR0sJGIQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Omar Abdullah stakes claim to form Jammu and Kashmir government, seeks swearing-in date from LG</a></strong><br />
<br />
Local tourism seems resilient despite the attacks. A huge number of tourists coming during the festival season are enjoying the world-famous Dal Lake Shikara rides along with their families. The tourism stakeholders are expecting winter tourism to pick up as it has been in the last few years. Kashmir Valley is expecting record-breaking tourist arrivals this winter season.</p>

<p>"Last few years we have seen a great footfall of tourists in the valley, the summer season was great, and we had a lot of tourists and there was a little break but it's due to holidays. We have Diwali coming up and people will be travelling around that time. We are getting a lot of queries. We have four seasons, and Kashmir has become an all-year destination. We are hopeful winters will be great as well. We are also making sure that tourists explore other places as well," said Manzoor Pakhtoon, a person from the Houseboat Association.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwi2iPC9ubOJAxU8RmcHHR0sJGIQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/local-recruitment-in-kashmir-terror-groups-hits-zero-majority-of-active-militants-now-foreign-764487" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/local-recruitment-in-kashmir-terror-groups-hits-zero-majority-of-active-militants-now-foreign-764487&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi2iPC9ubOJAxU8RmcHHR0sJGIQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">India: Local recruitment of terror groups in Kashmir hits zero; majority of active militants now foreign</a></strong></p>

<p>Kashmir Valley has witnessed 2.6 million tourists this year from January to September. The number of foreign tourists also went up and was recorded at 35,254. The number is much higher (19 million) if the pilgrim tourists going to Amarnath and Vaishno Devi are included.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The tourism industry creates direct and indirect jobs for around 2.2 million people in Jammu and Kashmir. The government recently held Legends League Cricket and the first-ever international marathon event in Srinagar to further boost tourism in Kashmir.</p>


The Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir witnessed multiple attacks in the last two weeks. Some of these attacks took place close to the tourist places like Gulmarg and Sonamarg and the tourism stakeholders in the Kashmir Valley were worried that it might impact the tourist inflow during the autumn season.

The Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir witnessed multiple attacks in the last two weeks. Some of these attacks took place close to the tourist places like Gulmarg and Sonamarg and the tourism stakeholders in the Kashmir Valley were worried that it might impact the tourist inflow during the autumn season. But the ground reality is completely different as hundreds of tourists are arriving in the valley to witness the changing colours of Chinar trees during the autumn. The tourists continue to flock to destinations like Gulmarg and Sonmarg even after the two attacks that took place close to these tourist sites in which eleven people were killed. But the tourists are unfazed by these attacks. As per recent data, every day around 7-8 thousand people arrive in Kashmir and among them 3-4 thousand are tourists. "I love it here, I am very happy to visit here and Kashmir is very lovely. It's a paradise on earth. We are feeling very safe and there seems to be no problem or issue with the situation. Kashmir is very pretty, and I would tell all my friends to come and visit Kashmir," said Shafaq Khan, a tourist. Also read: Omar Abdullah stakes claim to form Jammu and Kashmir government, seeks swearing-in date from LG Local tourism seems resilient despite the attacks. A huge number of tourists coming during the festival season are enjoying the world-famous Dal Lake Shikara rides along with their families. The tourism stakeholders are expecting winter tourism to pick up as it has been in the last few years. Kashmir Valley is expecting record-breaking tourist arrivals this winter season. "Last few years we have seen a great footfall of tourists in the valley, the summer season was great, and we had a lot of tourists and there was a little break but it's due to holidays. We have Diwali coming up and people will be travelling around that time. We are getting a lot of queries. We have four seasons, and Kashmir has become an all-year destination. We are hopeful winters will be great as well. We are also making sure that tourists explore other places as well," said Manzoor Pakhtoon, a person from the Houseboat Association. Also read: India: Local recruitment of terror groups in Kashmir hits zero; majority of active militants now foreign Kashmir Valley has witnessed 2.6 million tourists this year from January to September. The number of foreign tourists also went up and was recorded at 35,254. The number is much higher (19 million) if the pilgrim tourists going to Amarnath and Vaishno Devi are included. The tourism industry creates direct and indirect jobs for around 2.2 million people in Jammu and Kashmir. The government recently held Legends League Cricket and the first-ever international marathon event in Srinagar to further boost tourism in Kashmir.

India: Tourism unfazed in Kashmir even as areas near Gulmarg, Sonmarg face terror attacks

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