Union Minister of Tourism chaired the Conference of Tourism Ministers of Western and Central States and Union Territories held in Panaji, Goa
Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap represented Chhattisgarh and the State’s Five-Year Plans at the Conference
Shri Kashyap demanded Resources and Support from the Centre for Development of Tourism in Chhattisgarh
Raipur, 30 August 2024/ As per the instructions of Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, Cabinet Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap presented the Five-Year Plans for Tourism Development in Chhattisgarh at the Conference of Tourism Ministers of Western and Central States and Union Territories chaired by Union Minister of Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in Panaji, Goa. The primary objective of the conference was to discuss the prospects and challenges of tourism development in various states and union territories. On this occasion, the Union Minister of Tourism called for cooperation and support from various states to introduce improvements and new dimensions to the tourism sector.
The Conference was organized by Ministry of Tourism in Goa, wherein the tourism ministers from Western and Central states and union territories to foster comprehensive progress and development in the tourism sector. The aim was to conceptualize, deliberate, and develop a shared vision for the tourism industry. The conference included discussions on renowned tourist destinations, alternative destinations, marketing and promotion, ease of doing business, private investment, cleanliness, and tourist safety.
In his presentation at the conference, Cabinet Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap highlighted the scope and challenges of tourism development in Chhattisgarh. He discussed the necessary steps to promote the state’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and tourist sites, while also addressing the challenges in the path of development. Minister Shri Kashyap sought support and resources from the Centre to develop Chhattisgarh as a major tourist destination.
In his address, Minister Shri Kashyap emphasized that Chhattisgarh is a state rich in ancient monuments, rare wildlife, intricately carved temples, Buddhist sites, palaces, waterfalls, caves, and prehistoric rock paintings. The state is a unique example of historical, archaeological, religious, and natural heritage, alongside a glorious ancient folk culture.
He mentioned that the state has consistently received substantial support from the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. Numerous projects have been developed with the support of Central Government. These include ‘Tribal Tourism Circuit’ under the Swadesh Darshan scheme. The work in Dongargarh under the PRASAD scheme is in its final stages. Previously, several sites such as Jagdalpur, Chitrakote, Bhoramdeo, Sirpur, Ratanpur, Mainpat, Rajim, and Malhar have been developed with central assistance, supplemented by the state budget.
Chhattisgarh Government’s efforts for the development and extensive promotion of tourism have resulted in significant increase in the number of tourists visiting the state. In the coming time, the state will focus on developing Shaktipeeth sites. Work is also underway to develop ropeway and cruise tourism. A new tourism policy is being formulated, and efforts are in progress to grant tourism the status of an industry. The state has also issued ‘Homestay and Bed-and-Breakfast’ guidelines based on the Centre’s Homestay Guidelines. Preparations are underway to formulate guidelines for eco-tourism, adventure activities, and water activity licenses.
Ministry of Tourism’s approval for the new tourism development projects is expected in near future. Under Swadesh Darshan 2.0, consultants will be appointed by the Government of India for the selected destinations of Bilaspur and Jagdalpur. The concept plan for Kudargarh in Surajpur district under the PRASAD scheme has already been submitted and is awaiting approval. Minister Shri Kashyap stated that steps are being taken to lease out highway motels constructed by the Chhattisgarh Tourism Board to the private sector for operation and management, ensuring tourists have access to quality facilities on highways during their visits to tourist sites.
Chhattisgarh Tourism Board, in collaboration with the Forest Department, is encouraging local participation with the development of a nature trail at Chitrakote. This trail is managed by women from local self-help groups, providing them with additional income sources from tourism. Homestay and Bed-and-Breakfast facilities are also being offered to give tourists a taste of local culture, lifestyle, and cuisine. Additionally, the Chhattisgarh Institute of Hotel Management, Catering Technology, and Applied Nutrition is being operated by the Chhattisgarh Tourism Board to train human resources in hospitality and provide employment to the youth.
Minister Shri Kashyap Outlines the State’s Five-Year Plans
Shri Kashyap provided insights into the state’s five-year plans, which include the development of a circuit connecting five Shaktipeeths in the state, the development of tourist sites in Bilaspur and Jagdalpur under the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme, and the development of the Maa Kudargarhi Devi site in Surajpur district along with the establishment of a ropeway under the PRASAD scheme. Plans also include developing wayside amenities for tourists on newly constructed highways and bypasses, promoting local participation in tourism activities, and encouraging eco-tourism, agri-tourism, rural tourism, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism. Furthermore, the state’s residential units managed by the Chhattisgarh Tourism Board are planned to be leased out to the private sector for operation.
The event was attended by Union Minister of State for Tourism Shri Suresh Gopi, Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan Smt. Diya Kumari, Tourism Minister of Goa Shri Rohan Khaunte, Minister from Madhya Pradesh Shri Dharmendra Lodhi, along with tourism ministers and senior officials from various states.
