The three-day National Conference of State Tourism Ministers begins in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh

The three-day National Conference of State Tourism Ministers begins in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh

The three-day National Conference of State Tourism Ministers at Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh began on September 18 with a press conference chaired by Shri G Kishan Reddy. The National Conference of State Tourism Ministers aims to bring in diverse viewpoints and perspectives from all the States and Union Territories of India on tourism development and growth and to create a direct dialogue with the States on Schemes, policies and steps being taken at a national level for overall tourism improvement in India. The National Conference also aims to be a platform for sharing best practices, successful projects, and tourism product opportunities. During the press conference MoS Tourism Shri Ajay Bhatt and MoS Tourism Shri Shripad Naik, Chairman FAITH Shri Nakul Anand, and DG Tourism Shri G Kamala Vardhana Rao were also present.

During the Press Conference, Shri G. Kishan Reddy, Union Minister of Tourism, Culture and DONER stated that in the past 75 years, India has become synonymous with tourism, spirituality, transformation, culture, and diversity. It is a matter of great pride to celebrate the record-breaking expansion, leading India to become the 5th largest economy in the world. As such, establishing the tourism sector as the primary concern, the Ministry of Tourism has undertaken various initiatives and taken a four-fold development strategy that focuses on improving the connectivity via air, rail, and roads, enhancing the tourism infrastructure and dependent services, streamlining branding and promotion and showcasing the culture and heritage.

Highlighting the slogan of ‘Vikas Bhi Virasat Bhi’ given by the Prime Minister, Sh Kishan Reddy that after the vast process of consultations and deliberations, the National Tourism Policy will be brought out before the Budget session. He also informed that various tourist circuits are being promoted and a new ‘Ambedkar Circuit’ shall soon be launched. The Himalayan Circuit will also be promoted under the action plan for the development of tourist circuits, Sh G Kishan Reddy elaborated.

The Union Tourism Minister further added that the National Conference of State Tourism Ministers is also important in the current context of India’s G20 presidency. G-20 will be used as a platform to showcase India’s tourism potential to the world, he disclosed.

Emphasizing the importance of air connectivity Sh G Kishan Reddy said that the number of airports in the country has increased from 74 in 2014 to 140 now, and it is further proposed to increase the number of airports to 220 by 2025.

He also said that the Prime Minister’s vision of associating Indian diaspora and NRIs for promoting tourism will be encouraged and urged each diaspora Indian to motivate at least 5 foreigners to visit India as per the vision of our PM.

The financial assistance to the tourism sector, which is the biggest sufferer due to Covid 19, continues to be extended up to 31st March 2023 he said.

The Tourism sector generated INR 16.91 lakh crore (USD 240 billion) or 9.2% of India’s GDP in 2018 and has supported around 42.67 million jobs or 8.1% of total employment.

The Conference is divided into thematic sessions on Development of Tourism Infrastructure, Cultural, Spiritual & Heritage tourism, Tourism in the Himalayan states, Responsible and sustainable tourism, Role of digital technology for the marketing and promotion of tourism destinations, Emerging importance of homestays in the Indian hospitality sector, Ayurveda, Wellness, and Medical Value travel, and lastly on Forest and wildlife tourism.

The three-day National Conference of State Tourism Ministers begins in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh

The three-day National Conference of State Tourism Ministers begins in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh

The three-day National Conference of State Tourism Ministers at Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh began on September 18 with a press conference chaired by Shri G Kishan Reddy. The National Conference of State Tourism Ministers aims to bring in diverse viewpoints and perspectives from all the States and Union Territories of India on tourism development and growth and to create a direct dialogue with the States on Schemes, policies and steps being taken at a national level for overall tourism improvement in India. The National Conference also aims to be a platform for sharing best practices, successful projects, and tourism product opportunities. During the press conference MoS Tourism Shri Ajay Bhatt and MoS Tourism Shri Shripad Naik, Chairman FAITH Shri Nakul Anand, and DG Tourism Shri G Kamala Vardhana Rao were also present.

During the Press Conference, Shri G. Kishan Reddy, Union Minister of Tourism, Culture and DONER stated that in the past 75 years, India has become synonymous with tourism, spirituality, transformation, culture, and diversity. It is a matter of great pride to celebrate the record-breaking expansion, leading India to become the 5th largest economy in the world. As such, establishing the tourism sector as the primary concern, the Ministry of Tourism has undertaken various initiatives and taken a four-fold development strategy that focuses on improving the connectivity via air, rail, and roads, enhancing the tourism infrastructure and dependent services, streamlining branding and promotion and showcasing the culture and heritage.

Highlighting the slogan of ‘Vikas Bhi Virasat Bhi’ given by the Prime Minister, Sh Kishan Reddy that after the vast process of consultations and deliberations, the National Tourism Policy will be brought out before the Budget session. He also informed that various tourist circuits are being promoted and a new ‘Ambedkar Circuit’ shall soon be launched. The Himalayan Circuit will also be promoted under the action plan for the development of tourist circuits, Sh G Kishan Reddy elaborated.

The Union Tourism Minister further added that the National Conference of State Tourism Ministers is also important in the current context of India’s G20 presidency. G-20 will be used as a platform to showcase India’s tourism potential to the world, he disclosed.

Emphasizing the importance of air connectivity Sh G Kishan Reddy said that the number of airports in the country has increased from 74 in 2014 to 140 now, and it is further proposed to increase the number of airports to 220 by 2025.

He also said that the Prime Minister’s vision of associating Indian diaspora and NRIs for promoting tourism will be encouraged and urged each diaspora Indian to motivate at least 5 foreigners to visit India as per the vision of our PM.

The financial assistance to the tourism sector, which is the biggest sufferer due to Covid 19, continues to be extended up to 31st March 2023 he said.

The Tourism sector generated INR 16.91 lakh crore (USD 240 billion) or 9.2% of India’s GDP in 2018 and has supported around 42.67 million jobs or 8.1% of total employment.

The Conference is divided into thematic sessions on Development of Tourism Infrastructure, Cultural, Spiritual & Heritage tourism, Tourism in the Himalayan states, Responsible and sustainable tourism, Role of digital technology for the marketing and promotion of tourism destinations, Emerging importance of homestays in the Indian hospitality sector, Ayurveda, Wellness, and Medical Value travel, and lastly on Forest and wildlife tourism.

Shri G Kishan Reddy and Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw flag off the Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train operating on the Ramayana Circuit from Delhi Safdarjung Railway Station today

Shri G Kishan Reddy and Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw flag off the Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train operating on the Ramayana Circuit from Delhi Safdarjung Railway Station today

The Bharat Gaurav trains will provide an opportunity to explore the architectural, cultural, and historical marvels of the country: Shri G. Kishan Reddy

Union Minister of Tourism, Culture, and DONER, Shri G. Kishan Reddy along with Minister of Railways, Communications, Electronics, and Information Technology, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw flagged off the Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train from Delhi Safdarjung Railway Station today. For the first time, it will connect India and Nepal with a tourist train.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri G. Kishan Reddy said that this is the first tourist train connecting India and Nepal. “Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train is starting its first Shri Ramayana Yatra for 18 days from today, the first trip of the train operating on the Ramayana Circuit will also cover the religious destination of JANAKPUR (in Nepal) for the first time in addition to other popular destinations such as Ayodhya, Nandigram, Sitamarhui, Varanasi, Prayagraj, Chitrakoot, Pancvati (Nasik), Hampi, Rameshwaram, and Bhadrachalam”, Union Minister added.

Shri Reddy further said that the Ministry of Tourism in association with IRCTC and the Ministry of Railways has also proposed Bharat Gaurav Tourist Trains for Krishna Circuit, Buddhist Circuit, and many other circuits. “Bharat Gaurav trains is an attempt to showcase the rich cultural, spiritual and historical heritage of the country to the people of India. The unique concept of Bharat Gaurav Trains, as envisaged by the Ministry of Railways, will be helpful in promoting mass tourism across the country and provide an opportunity to people from all parts of the country to explore the architectural, cultural, and historical marvels of the country”, Shri Reddy added.

Shri Reddy also informed that the exterior of the coaches of the trains has been designed as a kaleidoscope of Bharat Gaurav or Pride of India, highlighting various facets of India such as monuments, dances, Yoga, folk art, etc.

Union Minister for Railways Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw said that this is a historical day for all of us. This is a gift from Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to its citizens, and a dream of the Prime Minister has now been realized. Shri Ashwini further added that the main objective behind the Bharat Gaurav train is to showcase the diverse culture and rich heritage of India.

Branded as Bharat Gaurav Tourist Trains, IRCTC is operating these special comfort category tourist trains to promote theme-based tourism. The coaches of the train have recently undergone refurbishment and the amenities and services have been upgraded.

Celebration of 8th International Day of Yoga on 21st June, 2022

Celebration of 8th International Day of Yoga on 21st June, 2022

Today, the Ministry of Tourism celebrated the 8th International Day of Yoga at Parade Ground, Secunderabad, Telangana. The event was led by the Hon’ble Minister of Tourism, Culture and DoNER, Shri. G Kishan Reddy. The Chief Guest of the event was the Hon’ble Vice President of India Shri M Venkaiah Naidu. The event was attended by more than 15,000 participants which included  Badminton Player, Padma Bhushan, and Arjuna Awardee Ms. PV Sandhu, and Film Actor Shri. Adivi Sesh, Members of Legislative Assembly,  President of Telangana Yoga Teachers Association, Yoga Institutes and association, Colleges, Schools, Para Military forces, Media, local administration, and other dignitaries.

Hon’ble Minister of Tourism, Culture and DoNER, Shri. G Kishan Reddy welcomed the guests and talked about the importance of yoga in everyday life. Thereafter Hon’ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi virtually addressed the gathering from Mysuru.

Hon’ble Vice President of India Shri M Venkaiah Naidu performed yoga and addressed the participants. Describing the meaning of Yoga as ‘to join’ or ‘to unite’, He said it emphasizes the unity and harmony between the mind and body, and man & nature. “On this occasion, I would urge everyone to work for the unity and harmony among all sections of the society.”

The Vice President stressed the need to take inspiration from our ancient philosophy and work for not just transforming our minds and bodies but also the overall transformation of the nation. Quoting from Gita, he described ‘Yoga’ as ‘Excellence in action’ and wanted this to be the ‘mantra’ for every Indian to take the country forward. “If you excel in your chosen field and perform your duties honestly, the nation will certainly progress faster”, he added.

Emphasizing the importance of good health in one’s life, Shri Naidu highlighted the importance of events like ‘International Yoga Day’ in promoting good health and happiness among the citizens.

Mentioning this year’s theme for Yoga Day – ‘Yoga for Humanity’, the Vice President underlined the role of Yoga in ensuring holistic physical and mental health and well-being among the masses. Referring to increasing mental health issues due to the COVID-19 pandemic, he said that the pandemic has made Yoga altogether more important to build resilience and improve our health

After the address of the Hon’ble Vice President, all the participants performed yoga as per Common Yoga Protocol.  

Shri G. Kishan Reddy launches the Utsav Portal at the inaugural day of Amrit Samagam Conference

Shri G. Kishan Reddy launches the Utsav Portal at the inaugural day of Amrit Samagam Conference

Union Minister for Tourism, Culture, and DONER Shri G. Kishan Reddy inaugurated the 2 days Conference of Amrit Samagam being held from 12th – 13th April in New Delhi. During the inaugural day of the 2 days Amrit Samagam Conference, Shri G. Kishan Reddy also launched the Utsav Portal. Secretary Tourism Shri Arvind Singh, DG Tourism Shri G. Kamala Vardhana Rao, ADG Tourism Smt. Rupinder Brar and other dignitaries of the Ministry of Tourism were also present on this occasion.

The Utsav Portal website, a digital initiative launched by the Ministry of Tourism, aims to showcase all the events, festivals, and live darshans across India to promote different regions of the country as popular tourist destinations worldwide. The objective is to showcase various elements, dates, and details of the events and festivals of India on a global platform and increase tourism awareness, attractions, and opportunities by providing tourists with contextual digital experiences in the form of visually appealing photographs and stills from the events. Additionally, the objective is also to let the devotees and travelers experience and view the sights of some of the well-known religious divine shrines in India in the form of Live Darshan.

The Utsav portal will also have the official social media links, official websites, brochures, contact details of the organizing committee, and the details of how to reach the destination through the air, rail, and roadways conveniently, thus establishing a better contact with the tourists and aiding the visitors in planning their trip to these destinations.

The immersive experience-based content is provisioned on the website under various categories like Art & Culture, Spiritual, Music, Seasonal, Culinary, Dance, Sports & Adventure, Harvest, and Expo & Exhibitions. There is a section that lists the major festivals celebrated in India to ensure that international and domestic travelers can plan their trips for these festivals well in advance. The website aims at showcasing the beauty of India, the land of festivals, in a global arena by aiding travelers with compelling, relevant, and contextualized digital experiences enhancing tourism awareness, attraction, and multiplying the travelling opportunities.  The website now comprises a plethora of information on more than 80 events, festivals, and live darshans from 28 States and 9 UTs along with detailed attractions. The website will be dynamic and constantly evolving with additional new information about all the upcoming events, festivals, and exhibitions, periodically.

The Ministry had also released a digital Calendar on the theme of dedicated tourist sites on AKAM on the occasion of National Tourism Day on 25th January.

During the Conference, Additional Director General, Ms. Rupinder Brar, while highlighting the events which have been undertaken by the Ministry of Tourism under Azadi ka Amrut Mahotsav, also stated that a convergence of activities with the State Governments and Union Territories was necessary to create an impactful and wider outreach for spreading the core message of Azadi ka Amrut Mahotsav. The Ministry of Tourism showcased all activities done across India under AKAM since 12th March 2021. It also shared the proposed 75 locations across India where events shall be held in the coming months. The thrust will be on Jan Bhagidari. The State Governments have also been urged to select their own 75 locations in addition to the Ministry`s India @ 75.

In order to augment the infrastructure development, the Ministry has sanctioned 03 projects during 2021-22 for a total amount of Rs 112.25 crore, with the objective of integrated development of identified pilgrimage and heritage destinations, under the PRASHAD Scheme. The thrust of the Ministry shall be to provide basic amenities at many more religious places so that pilgrims are benefited. This will allow many more locations to be covered.

The Ministry has also recently revamped its Swadesh Darshan Scheme as Swadesh Darshan 2.0. Under the revamped Scheme, a destination and tourist-centric approach is envisaged in order to develop responsible and sustainable destinations.

In order to mark the celebration of International Day of Yoga 2022, a list of 75 locations has been shared with the State Governments. The inclusion of students from schools/colleges / Universities / Institutes in the overall celebrations would be the highlight to ensure maximum participation.

During the event, Additional Secretary, Shri Rakesh Verma, also presented the draft National Tourism Policy, which focuses on digital interventions and the development of sustainable and Green Tourism practices.

Shri G Kishan Reddy launches the digital platform (E-Marketplace) as part of digital tourism solution for IITFs / IITGs

Shri G Kishan Reddy launches the digital platform (E-Marketplace) as part of digital tourism solution for IITFs / IITGs

Union Minister of Tourism, Culture and DONER, Shri G. Kishan Reddy today launched the E-marketplace platform in an event organised at the Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management(IITTM), Gwalior. Ministry of Tourism launched the digital platform (E-Marketplace) as part of a digital tourism solution for IITFs / IITGs, to provide Web and Mobile App based interaction mechanism, which is to be used by the tourists and certified tourist facilitators/Tourist Guides. E-Marketplace Portal under the IITFC/IITG program of the Ministry would be more like the platforms of OLA, UBER etc., which would help IITFs/IITGs to get business opportunities and would work as a bridge between the customer and the service provider. Minister of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare, Shri Narendra Singh Tomar (virtually) Minister of Civil Aviation, Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia (virtually), Minister of State of Tourism & Defence, Shri Ajay Bhatt, Member Parliament, Gwalior, Shri Vivek Narayan Shejwalkar, Minister of Tourism and Culture, Govt. of Madhya Pradesh, Smt. Usha Thakur (Virtually)  also graced the event.

During his address, Shri G Kishan Reddy said that India has a great variety of tourism destinations and tourism has immense potential in generating employment and business opportunities. Shri Reddy added that Students at IITTM have several avenues in the tourism sector and I am sure you will play a critical role in the growth of the tourism sector in the country. Under the guidance and leadership of Prime Minister Sri Narendra Modi Ji, VIKAS is our only mantra and it is Vikas that will lead us to more tourism opportunities. Our government is working shoulder to shoulder with all states to develop tourism in the country, he added.

Minister of Tourism, Culture, and DONER, Shri G. Kishan Reddy also visited Gwalior Fort along with officials of the Ministry of Tourism and observed the tourist facilities at the monument. Thereafter, a review meeting was held with the officials of the Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Culture, and Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) under his chairmanship. A detailed presentation was made by Principal Secretary (Tourism & Culture), Government of Madhya Pradesh on the progress of various Tourism Infrastructure projects funded by Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India.A newly built International Executive Guest House at IITTM Gwalior Campus was Inaugurated.

A Coffee table book on the theme Temple Iconography named “Temple Heritage of India” was released, which covers 75 plates on Indian Temples at 75 years of India’s Independence. A letter of intent was awarded to Bird Academy for collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism (MoT) for soft skill training, for IITFC program participants. More than 3000 participants were handed over with Digital Certificate for completing IITF/ IITG Course.

Keeping in view the significant role of women in shaping the countries’ pride, a 3-day program celebrating the spirit of ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ was also launched on International Women’s Day. The event was concluded with the mesmerising cultural performances and a drama on “Ahilya Bai” by the students of IITTM.