Punjab lays red-carpet for global tourists to exhibit state tourism trove

Punjab lays red-carpet for global tourists to exhibit state tourism trove
Chandigarh: “1st Punjab Tourism Summit and Travel Mart 2023” will open new avenue for tourism prospectus in the state, said Punjab Tourism and Culture Affairs Minister Ms. Anmol Gagan Maan. She was addressing a press conference ahead of the inaugural “1st Punjab Tourism Summit and Travel Mart 2023” from September 11 to 13, 2023.

Addressing the media persons here at Punjab Bhawan, Ms. Anmol Gagan Maan said that Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann’s commitment to the development of tourism in the state has paved the way for this grand summit as he had announced this momentous event during the Progressive Punjab Investor Summit at ISB Mohali in the month of February.

Highlighting the significance of Punjab Tourism Summit in Boosting State’s Economy, Ms. Anmol Gagan Maan said that the upcoming Punjab Tourism Summit will play a pivotal role in elevating the economic prospects of the state. She underscored the promising commitment of significant business entities eager to invest in Punjab’s burgeoning tourism sector.

“Tourism is not just an industry; it’s a window to our heritage and a testament to our hospitality,” said Ms. Anmol Gagan Maan, adding that “Through the Punjab Tourism Summit, we are resolute in our mission to unveil the untapped treasures of Punjab to the world, showcasing our rich heritage and welcoming spirit.” She said that the state of Punjab already occupies a special place in the world on the map of religious tourism, but the beauty blessed by nature in Punjab is yet to explore.

Emphasizing the government’s dedication to sustainable tourism practices, Ms. Maan revealed ambitious plans to develop eco-tourism initiatives. “We are opening our rivers, dams, forests and mountains to tourists while preserving and protecting our natural beauty, and this aligns with our commitment to eco-friendly tourism, promoting responsible exploration of our magnificent landscapes, she added.

Highlighting the concrete steps taken towards this endeavour, Ms. Anmol Gagan Maan noted that various tourist destinations have been meticulously identified and are being prepared for visitors. She said that we are committed to offering a holistic experience to travelers by enhancing infrastructure and services at these destinations.

She said that major investors will be actively participating in the tourism summit. She expressed hope that these partnerships and their potential will drive the growth of Punjab’s tourism sector.

She said that the Punjab Tourism Summit and Travel Mart, which is scheduled to take place from 11th to 13th September, 2023 at the Amity Campus of SAS Nagar Mohali, is poised to be a significant gathering of tourism stakeholders and investors from across the country. This event will offer a unique platform to showcase the abundant tourism potential that Punjab has to offer, she categorically added.

Minister Anmol Gagan Maan stated, “We have extended invitations to tourism stakeholders and investors from all corners of India to participate in this summit. It will be a dynamic showcase of Punjab’s tourism opportunities.”

The Tourism and Culture Affairs Minister informed that the state government is in process to launch a dedicated mobile application, aiming at facilitating seamless communication between investors and tour operators. She said that this app will serve as a one-stop platform for those looking to invest in our state’s tourism potential and for tour operators seeking to offer unique experiences to travelers.

The summit will kick off on the 11th of September, followed by the Punjab Travel Mart from the 11th to the 13th of September 2023. Apart from this, Familiarization (FAM) trips are scheduled from the 13th of September 2023, encompassing Sri Amritsar Sahib, Sri Anandpur Sahib, Kapurthala and Pathankot.

Minister Anmol Gagan Maan also highlighted remarkable initiatives undertaken by the government to bolster tourism in Punjab, including the sanctioning of projects worth Rs.91.55 Crores under the Heritage Circuit Theme of Swadesh Darshan Scheme. An impressive amount of Rs. 67.00 Crores has already been released for these projects, expected to be completed by December 2023.

In a bid to streamline processes, Ms. Anmol Gagan Maan said that the state government has introduced online registration for three schemes such as Farm Stay, Bed and Breakfast Homestay and Tented Accommodation and Camping Sites, reducing compliance burdens for citizens and businesses. She said that currently, 56 Farm House Properties, 84 Bed & Breakfast Units, and 7 Tented Accommodation units have been registered with the department.

She said that the government has already allocated resources for hosting various festivals and events, such as the 6th Military Literature Festival, commemorating the 50th anniversary of District Faridkot and signing an MOU with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations to promote the state’s art and culture.
Looking ahead, Ms. Anmol Gagan Maan unveiled upcoming initiatives for 2023-24, including a focus on Border Tourism, the upgrade of the Anglo-Sikh War Museum, the enhancement of Shaheed Bhagat Singh Street and the launch of Wellness Tourism and Culture Policies