New Delhi, February 1, 2026 : In a major push towards eco-friendly tourism and conservation-led development, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday announced the development of ecologically sustainable mountain trails in Jammu and Kashmir under the Union Budget 2026–27.
Presenting the Budget in Parliament, the Finance Minister said the initiative aims to promote responsible tourism while safeguarding fragile mountain ecosystems. Jammu and Kashmir has been identified as a key region for the rollout of these sustainable trails, which are expected to boost local livelihoods, encourage nature-based tourism and ensure environmental preservation.
Similar mountain trail projects will also be implemented in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, the Araku Valley in the Eastern Ghats, and parts of the Western Ghats, reflecting a nationwide strategy to balance tourism growth with ecological responsibility.
In another significant announcement focused on biodiversity conservation, Sitharaman said the Centre will develop turtle trails along major nesting sites in Odisha, Karnataka and Kerala. These trails are aimed at protecting marine life while promoting sustainable and educational tourism around sensitive coastal habitats.
The twin initiatives underscore the government’s commitment to integrating sustainability, conservation and tourism-led economic development, particularly in environmentally sensitive regions across the country.
