4 days Ago
1 2 Jaipur: Union tourism minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat Sunday said that the govt is targeting to make the country one of the top 10 destinations in the world. It ranked 39th in the World Economic Forum 's Travel & Tourism Development Index 2024 globally and 54th 2022. He mentioned that meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) would be one of the key strategies of the ministry in expanding the sector, which draws heavily on the cultural riches of the country.
Speaking at the ministry's ‘Meet in India', organised by FICCI for promoting the events industry, Shekhawat said states across the country are unlocking tourism opportunities in their own unique ways and stressed, "Now, it's time for India to position itself firmly on the global MICE map." "With iconic venues like Bharat Mandapam, Yashobhoomi, and Jio World Centre, and with MICE prioritised under the Incredible India campaign , we aim to elevate at least 10 Indian cities into the world's top MICE destinations," said the minister in the presence of over 300 delegates and participants representing the MICE and tourism industry. In fact, the state tourism minister Diya Kumari also highlighted Rajasthan Mandapam, currently under development, and the existing infrastructure and resources required to expand the MICE segment in the state.
Citing examples, she mentioned Jaipur hosting the silver jubilee celebration of the International Indian Film Academy awards in March this year. Recognising the impact of MICE on the economy, during India's G20 presidency, meetings attended global leaders were held in many states to provide them exposure in hosting events and building their capabilities. Suman Bery, vice-chairperson, NITI Aayog, said, "We view MICE tourism not only as a promotional opportunity but as a development imperative," urging for more than just infrastructure development.
While stressing the need to move towards a comprehensive tourism experience that integrates events, cultural infrastructure, and global best practices to fully unlock its potential, Bery said that centre-state coordination, deregulation, and the breaking down of silos across ministries are key to achieving this vision. ‘Pahalgam attack a slight setback for tourism in valley' Jaipur: The Pahalgam terror attack that targeted tourists, killing 26 and injuring scores will have a temporary impact on the work the govt has been doing there, said Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. He said the govt was building six new tourist destinations and those projects will be impacted in the short-term.
Calling the incident very unfortunate, he said tourism in the valley has been slightly hit but people have started visiting the destination.He also lauded the spirit of the tourists who did not cancel the trips after the attack and went to visit the places in the state..
