The Department of Tourism, Hospitality and Leisure Studies (DTHLS), University of Kashmir (KU), organised a one-day national conference on “Beyond Sustainability: Advancing Regenerative Models in Tourism Development” at the Main Campus.
The conference aimed to bring together practitioners, scholars, policymakers and industry stakeholders to examine current trends in tourism development, address sustainability concerns, and explore regenerative approaches that focus on restoration, inclusivity and long-term resilience.
Speaking at the inaugural session, Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, said, “Tourism development must move beyond conventional sustainability frameworks and adopt models that restore ecosystems, support local communities, and respond to emerging environmental and social challenges.”
She also emphasized the role of academic institutions in generating research-driven insights to guide policy and practice in the tourism sector.
In his keynote address, former Vice-Chancellor, Central University of Jammu, Prof. Ashok Aima, spoke on the need to reimagine tourism through interdisciplinary approaches that integrate ecological responsibility with economic development.
Dean Academic Affairs KU, Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada, said that such platforms facilitate informed discussions on emerging issues in tourism and contribute to the development of practical and policy-oriented solutions. Dean, School of Business Studies KU, Prof. Mushtaq Ahmad Darzi, highlighted the importance of aligning tourism practices with changing market dynamics, technological advancements and sustainability imperatives.
Earlier, Head, DTHLS KU, Dr. Reyaz Ahmad Qureshi, in his welcome address, outlined the objectives of the conference and highlighted the need for collaborative engagement in advancing regenerative tourism models.
On the occasion, the maiden newsletter of the department, “The Chronicle,” was also released.
The conference featured technical sessions and panel discussions on themes including regenerative tourism frameworks, climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, community-led development, policy innovation, digital transformation, rural entrepreneurship, circular business models, and wellness and slow tourism approaches.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Shahnawaz Ahmad, faculty at DTHLS KU
