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.

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 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.

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

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.

National Tourism Day 25th January 2022

The Ministry of Tourism celebrated the National Tourism Day  by holding a two-hour program on a virtual platform today on the 25th of January 2022 under the aegis of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav celebration, marking the 75 years of India’s independence. The theme of this year’s celebration is Rural and Community Centric Tourism. Rural Tourism provides valuable commercial and employment opportunities for communities that are confronted with the growing challenge of offering viable livelihoods for their local populations.

The program was presided by Hon`ble Union Minister of Tourism, Culture and DoER, Shri G. Kishan Reddy, who was the Chief Guest for the event. The program was started with the opening remarks by Shri Arvind Singh, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India and followed by the addresses of Shri Upendra Prasad Singh, Secretary, Ministry of Textiles, Shri Govind Mohan, Secretary, Ministry of Culture, Smt. Leena Nandan, Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri G. Ashok Kumar, Director General, National Mission for Clean Ganga, Shri Anand Mahindra, Chairman of Mahindra Group and Col. Manoj Keshwar, Atulya Ganga Parikrama.

During the program, Hon`ble Union Minister of Tourism, Culture and DoNER, Shri G. Kishan Reddy launched the digital booklet 75 incredible sites to visit in India and Incredible India 2022 digital calendar by the Ministry of Tourism dedicated to tourism sites. Hon’ble Minister in his address emphasised on aggressive promotion of varied tourism products that India has to offer to the world. Tourism is one of the largest employments generating sector and it plays a vital role in direct and indirect employment. He also discussed the importance of domestic tourism and plans to start of Tourism Clubs to create more awareness among the students and youth of our country. Further he stressed on the promotion of tourism with special focus North-Eastern region and to tap the potentiality of the region. Hon’ble Minister shared his views on how to increase India’s share in global tourism market. Also appeal to connect with corporate sector under Adopt a Heritage project under corporate social responsibility. He spoke to utilise the competency of  Ministry of Civil Aviation, Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Railways etc. and how to empower the tourism in the country.

In the opening remarks Shri Arvind Singh, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism spoke about how in India, the Tourism sector has emerged as one of the key drivers of economic growth. Tourism promotes national integration and makes citizens aware of the beauty and rich cultural heritage of our great nation. It also promotes inter-regional relationships and encourages cultural pursuits and providing support to local handicrafts. We have seen how the textile products of Pochampally and art forms of Raghurajpur have been a major tourism attraction both for domestic and international tourists. It is essential that such models are replicated in other parts of India to bring economic benefits from tourism to local communities to generate employment and bridge the cultural divide between urban and rural spaces.

Shri Upendra Prasad Singh, Secretary Ministry of Textiles, GOI highlighted the importance of Indian handloom and handicrafts that represents the rich culture and heritage of our country. He also spoke about how handloom & handicrafts and tourism goes together and how it helps to enrich the travel experiences.

Shri Govind Mohan, Secretary Ministry of Culture, GOI spoke about the interconnection between culture and tourism. India is home to greatest philosophies, temple structures, world heritage sites arts & crafts. India is  a huge cultural repository and the facets of culture are many fold and unparalleled and we need to integrate them.

Smt. Leena Nandan Secretary Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change GOI emphasised on the importance of eco-tourism. She also shared her views on how we can tap the potentiality and growth of tourism in the country in a responsible and sustainable manner. To strengthen the livelihood opportunities of the communities & stakeholders who are directly or indirectly connected with the biodiversity of the country including tiger reserves, sanctuaries, marine zones etc.

Shri G. Ashok Kumar, Director General, National Mission for Clean Ganga spoke about the project launched for the holistic rejuvenation, restoration, conservation of Ganga Basin. Ensure effective abatement of pollution and rejuvenation of the river Ganga by adopting a river basin approach to promote inter-sectoral co-ordination for comprehensive planning and management and to maintain minimum ecological flows in the river Ganga with the aim of ensuring water quality and environmentally sustainable development.

Shri Anand Mahindra, Chairman Mahindra Group shared his views on tourism in India and importance of domestic tourism for national integration. India’s rich diversity and heritage can cater to different segments of tourists from modest budget traveller to an unmatched luxury experience.

Col. Manoj Keshwar, Atulya Ganga Parikrama shared his experience of Ganga Parikrama an initiative with a vision of Rejuvenation & restoration of Indian rivers and their eco-system. The Ganga Parikrama by foot started from prayagraj to Gangasagar and upto Gangotri and back to Prayagraj, a journey of 190 days, around 5530 kms touching various cities and villages on the way and millions of people on the way.

For active Janbhagidari and as an outreach program for the citizens, Ministry of Tourism has collaborated with MyGov and organised activities namely, National Tourism Day-Poster Design Contest, National Tourism Day- Caller Tune Contest, National Tourism Day – Picture Quiz and a write-up contest on ‘Unseen India’ – 75 Lesser-Known sites in India. These activities are open to everyone across India and the winners will be awarded exciting prizes.

The Government announced various fiscal and relief measures to benefit the Tourism Industry like providing financial support to more than 11,000 registered Tourist Guides & Travel and Tourism Stakeholders as well as issuing 5 Lakh free Tourist Visas. India has reached the historic milestone of administering 150 crore vaccine doses to citizens and started 2022 on a high note by expanding the ambit to include children in the 15-17 age bracket.

Tourism in the last two years has been affected world over including India due to the ongoing pandemic. In line with the Prime Minister`s call asking every citizen to visit at least 15 destinations by the year 2022 to promote domestic tourism, National Tourism Day celebrations will help to foster the awareness in country on the importance of tourism and its social, cultural, political, and economic value. A gradual increase in the domestic tourism will help for recovery and growth in many folds of the society

The Government is taking cognizance of Rural Tourism – one of the areas in which India can excel. Recently, Pochampally village in Telangana was selected as one of the best Tourism Villages in the world by the United Nations World Tourism Organization for its crafts, reforms, and historical significance out of the three nominations namely Ladhpura Khas in Madhya Pradesh, Kongthong village in Meghalaya, and Pochampally village in Telangana, submitted by the Ministry of Tourism. The Ministry of Tourism proposes to organize a physical event at Pochampally, after the pandemic situation improves. Rural tourism can help to disperse tourism in highly populated countries; this directs tourists away from some of the more well-known, busy areas and provides work opportunities and economic activity in alternative areas.

The field offices of the Ministry of Tourism across India and conducted various activities to mark the occasion of National Tourism Day such as webinars, quiz competitions, elocution competition, Heritage Walk Incredible India branding at the airports, on the taxies. Institute of Hotel Management (IHMs), Food Crafts Institutes (FCI) and Indian Institute of Travel and Tourism Management (IITTM) also organised various activities such as Cultural Programmes, Rural Food Ethnic cuisine competition, Nukkd Natak etc.

Today’s The two hour programme YouTube link :

https://youtube.com/c/incredibleindia

To know more follow Incredible India:

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/incredibleindia/

Instagram – https://instagram.com/incredibleindia?igshid=v02srxcbethv

Union Minister for Tourism & Culture Shri G. Kishan Reddy attends the Retreat Ceremony at National War Memorial and pays tribute to the martyrs

Union Minister for Tourism, Culture and DONER Shri G. Kishan Reddy attended the Retreat Ceremony at the National War Memorial and paid tribute to the martyrs who have sacrificed their lives for the Nation and displayed distinguished acts of valour during wartime, in New Delhi today. Shri Reddy also observed the Next of Kin ceremony at the Memorial which is held every evening before sunset.

Shri G. Kishan Reddy took a round of the Memorial and saw the murals depicting epic battles and Operations of the Indian Armed Forces to protect the country. Shri Reddy also paid virtual homage to the martyrs.

In his media interaction after the ceremony, the Union Minister appealed to everybody especially the youth to visit National War Memorial built in the memory of martyrs who died in the line of duty. And as we celebrate Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, Shri Reddy urged that the students of all the States and Universities must come and visit the National War Memorial, which imbues every one with a patriotic zeal.

The National War Museum represents the gratitude of a nation to its Armed Forces. The Memorial helps to strengthen the sense of belonging, high moral values, sacrifice, and national pride in our citizens. It stands testimony to the sacrifices made by our soldiers during various conflicts, United Nations Operations, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response Operations since Independence. Since its inauguration in 2019, the NWM has become very popular among citizens and tourists visiting Delhi.

The National War Memorial was inaugurated and dedicated to the nation by the Prime Minister on 25th Feb 2019. Apart from the main Memorial, there is dedicated area for Busts of 21 soldiers who have been conferred with ‘Param Vir Chakra’, the Nation’s highest gallantry award in war. The memorial complex is in harmony with the existing layout and symmetry of the majestic Rajpath and Central Vista. Solemnity of the ambience is maintained with an emphasis on landscaping and simplicity of architecture. The design of the main memorial exemplifies that supreme sacrifice made by a soldier in the line of duty not only makes him immortal, but also depicts that the spirit of a soldier remains eternal.

To augment the reach of the National War Memorial to a younger and wider audience, the digital appeal of the Memorial has been enhanced with creation of National War Memorial Website, Mobile App and placement of Interactive Screens.

NWM Website / Mobile App showcase the Memorial history, significance, concept and details of the Battle Casualties. The features incorporated in the website / app include multilingual interaction in 21 regional languages to facilitate easier comprehension for visitors from all over the country.

A Daily Retreat Ceremony and a Daily NoK (Next of Kin) Ceremony by Next of Kin of a martyr are held before sunset at the National War Memorial. The Memorial sees a daily footfall of around 6000-8000 visitors on weekdays and 15000-20000 on weekends.

Union Tourism Minister Shri G. Kishan Reddy virtually inaugurates PRASHAD projects at Govardhan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh

  • Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Shri Yogi Adityanath and Minister of State for Tourism and Defence Shri Ajay Bhatt also graced the event
  • So far under the PRASHAD Scheme, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand together have close to 25% of the total allocation of approximately Rs. 1200 crores towards pilgrimage, spiritual and heritage rejuvenation: Shri G. Kishan Reddy
  • Shri Reddy highlighted, “When we remove the soul from our body, there is nothing remaining, similarly the spiritual heritage and culture of our country needs to be protected for the nation to thrive and Hon’ble Prime Minister Sri Narendra Modi has been leading from the front on this”.

Union Minister of Tourism, Culture and Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Shri G. Kishan Reddy along with Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Shri Yogi Adityanath and Minister of State for Tourism and Defence Shri Ajay Bhatt inaugurated various components developed at the Govardhan Bus Stand under the project “Development of Govardhan, Mathura” under PRASHAD Scheme of the Ministry of Tourism today virtually.

The Union Minister Sri G. Kishan Reddy said that under the leadership of Prime minister India has achieved the historic feat of administering 150 crore vaccinations. The Minister also reminded the stakeholders that Covid has not yet ended, and requested all to follow all necessary protocols and precautions to stay safe and healthy. “When we remove the soul from our body, there is nothing remaining, similarly the spiritual heritage and culture of our country needs to be protected for the nation to thrive and Hon’ble Prime Minister Sri Narendra Modi has been leading from the front on this.” The   Prime Minister is focused on enhancing pilgrim accessibility and their experience through connectivity, infrastructure and better facilities, the Minister added. He said that for realizing the Prime Minister’s vision,  the Ministry is working tirelessly towards improving the overall facilities and tourism infrastructure. The PRASHAD scheme is being implemented to improve the Tourism infrastructure like facilitation centers for tourists such as Information and Interpretation Centers, ATM and Money exchange facilities, Eco-friendly buses, lighting, parking, toilets, cloak rooms, first aid centers, rain shelters and internet connectivity at the Tourist locations.

Noting the projects implemented  in the state, the Minister Sri Kishan Reddy said “So far under the PRASHAD Scheme, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand together have close to 25% of the total allocation of approximately Rs. 1200 crores towards pilgrimage, spiritual and heritage rejuvenation”. “Moreover, Rs. 500 crores has been allocated for the state of Uttar Pradesh alone through the SWADESH DARSHAN scheme towards strengthening Tourism infrastructure within the state of Uttar Pradesh through various spiritual circuits such as the Ramayana and Buddha circuits”, the Minister added.

The Union Minister also highlighted the various programmes being conducted as a part of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, as India celebrates its 75th year of independence. He requested for maximum people participation for the programmes that were being conceived keeping in mind our rich cultural heritage such as the Rangoli making competition and also programmes that were designed to invoke patriotic fervor among the masses such as the competition that requires composing patriotic songs. The Minister also congratulated the individuals and officials behind the successful completion of the project.

The occasion was graced by the august presence of Shri Dr. Neelkanth Tiwari, Minister of State (IC) for Tourism, Culture, Religious Affairs, Protocol(MOS) , Smt. Hema Malini, Member of Parliament , Lok Sabha, Mathura Region , Shri Arvind Singh (I.A.S), Secretary (Tourism), Ministry of Tourism, Government of India and Shri Mukesh Meshram (I.A.S) Principal Secretary(Tourism) , Uttar Pradesh.

The project for “Development of Govardhan Mathura” under the PRASHAD scheme was approved by the Ministry of Tourism with the cost of INR 39.73 Cr. in January 2019. The components viz. ‘Multi Level Car Stand Block, Cloak Room & Toilets, Boundary wall and Surface development at Govardhan Bus Stand’ has been successfully completed with the cost of INR 15.82 Cr.

Other components sanctioned under the project include development of Mansi Ganga, Chandra Sarovar, Govardhan Parikrama and interventions at Kusum Sarovar. The illumination of the Kusum Sarovar is already completed and dedicated to the nation in February 2021. The work for all other components is in advanced stages of completion.

The components developed under the project have resulted in facilitation of pilgrims and enhancement of the pilgrimage experience. The interventions implemented have resulted in regulation of pedestrian traffic on the Govardhan Parikrama Path.

The ‘National Mission on Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive’ (PRASHAD) is a Central Sector Scheme with complete financial assistance by the Government of India. The scheme has been launched under the leadership of  Prime Minister by the Ministry of Tourism in the year 2014-15 with the vision of focused infrastructure development to harness pilgrimage and heritage tourism destinations for its direct and multiplier effect upon employment generation and economic development. The scheme aims at infrastructure development to envisage world class infrastructural development of the sites with special emphasis on Tourist Facilities including Tourist Facilitation Centres, way-side amenities Parking, Public convenience, Illumination and Sound and Light Shows.

In addition to the above-mentioned project at Govardhan, 5 more projects. have been sanctioned in the state of Uttar Pradesh under PRASHAD scheme of Ministry of Tourism. The total outlay of the projects sanctioned under the PRASHAD scheme for Uttar Pradesh is INR 139.75 Cr. The sanctioned projects include Development of Mathura Vrindavan as Mega Tourist Destination, Construction of Tourist Facilitation Center at Mathura, Development of Varanasi and Development of Cruise Tourism in River Ganga. Majority of components implemented under these projects have already been completed and dedicated to nation.

The Union Minister praised the state government for the optimum use of the funds released by the Government of India for creating the facilities of international standards. He further assured the state government for every cooperation and support required from the Ministry of Tourism in the sector.

Shri G Kishan Reddy takes charge as Union Tourism Minister
Shri Ajay Bhatt also took charge as Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism

Union Minister Shri G Kishan Reddy took charge as Union Tourism Minister at Transport Bhavan in New Delhi today. Simultaneously, Shri Ajay Bhatt also took charge as Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism. The other new Minister of State for Tourism, Shri Shripad Yesso Naik was also present on the occasion.

Shri Kishan Reddy has also been assigned the charge of Union Minister of Culture as well as Development of North-Eastern Region. He was earlier holding the charge of Minister of State in the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Speaking to media, Sh. Reddy said that the Ministry will work to fulfill the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘New India’ by investing in strengthening our cultural roots and promoting the Tourism sector.

Shri G Kishan Reddy was elected as a Member of Parliament to 17th Lok Sabha in 2019, from Secunderabad Constituency, Telangana.

Sh Reddy has led several unique initiatives like his work for the child-heart patients which became a movement and won him the Best Child-Friendly Legislator Award in the AP Legislative Assembly by UNICEF (United Nations). He also started a campaign against terrorism and organised International Youth Conference against Terrorism (IYCT) in New Delhi in which over 193 delegates participated from over 54 countries. He also conducted “Seema Suraksha Jagaran Yatra and ‘Telangana Poru Yatra’.

Sh Reddy has also received the Outstanding Youth Leadership Award for the year 2009 by Maryland India Business Round Table (MIBRT), USA and Conferred a medal by Union of Bulgarian Commandos for his contribution towards Global Peace at Sophia, Bulgaria.

Shri G. Kishan Reddy, who people affectionately and respectfully refer to as ‘Kishananna’, is a live example of what one can achieve through sheer determination and hard work. He has travelled extensively across the world representing India and its young leadership in various for a which includes his visits to USA, Israel, China, Nepal, France, U.K., Canada, Morocco, Malaysia, Bulgaria, Singapore, Egypt, Thailand, Hong Kong.

Shri Ajay Bhatt is an advocate by profession and has been a Member of various important committees at National Level. He is from Uttarakhand and elected to 17th Lok Sabha from Nainital Udham Singh Nagar Constituency. He is Widely travelled and has got keen interest in social and cultural activities.