‘Chhattisgarh Is An Undiscovered Paradise’

With the newly formed state of Chhattisgarh opening its door to tourists in the domestic as well as international circuits, the state is slowly growing into a promising tourist destination. In an exclusive chief minister, Ajit Jogi, speaks to Savio Rodrigues, on the government’s initiatives and the new tourism policy. Excerpts

What are the objectives of the new tourism policy?
The government is looking at promoting Chhattisgarh, as a state that is economical, cultural and ecological for tourists.

Through the tourism policy, the government is looking at encouraging and promoting private sector participation in developing tourism related infrastructure and providing employment opportunities in rural, tribal and remote areas.

Another vital objective of the policy is to develop activity-based tourism to increase the duration of a tourist’s visit and the encouragement of new concepts such as time-share.

It is through the policy that the government is working towards protecting and preserving cultural heritage, archeological monuments and natural landscape. The main aim of the government is also to work more as facilitator than a mere proposer.

What strategies has the government formulated to implement the tourism policy’s initiatives?
By identifying important areas of tourist interest in different sectors like eco-tourism, heritage tourism, cultural tourism etc, the government is working towards improving facilities provided to the tourists.

We are improving current infrastructure like road, rail, air links, water and electricity supply. And is looking at providing improved transport facilities for potential tourist destinations in the state. Implementation of measures to upgrade accommodation, catering, entertainment and recreational facilities provided by the hotels and restaurants is also in the pipeline. The government is also in the process of organising its documentation of tourism related information through brochures, pamphlets, road shows, television documentaries, in order to optimise tourist arrival into Chhattisgarh.

Efforts are on towards establishing and strengthening institutions for human resource development in tourism and promoting art and crafts. Heritage sites such as Bhoramdev, Rajim, Sirpur, Tala; cultural tourism areas such as the Dussehra festival of Bastar, Madhai festival of Narayanpur, Raut Nacha festival; nature tourism circuit such as Mainpat, Kutumbsar caves, Kailash caves, Chitrakoot falls, Tiratgarh falls; wildlife tourism areas such as Kanger Valley National Park, Barnawapara sanctuary, Udanti sanctuary; Religious tourist sites such as Champaranya, Dongargarh, Ratanpur; adventure tourism areas Mahanadi river, Gangrel dam, Madamsilli dam, Kodar dam are currently under the purview of the government for improvement and upgradation.

The enhancement of attractive tourist circuits are also in consultation and coordination with private tour operators, travel agents and the hospitality industry. The New Delhi, Jabalpur, Kanha, Bhorandev, Raipur, Rajim, Bastar, Araku Valley circuits have been proposed to the government of India for approval.

Encouraging projects formulation and implementation for tourism facilities, through funds by external sources, on loan and aid, in consultation and co-operation with the central government, shall also be undertaken.

What are the incentives available to private investors interested in contributing to tourism infrastructure?
As a part of its strategy to encourage private investment in tourism-related infrastructure, the government has decided to accord tourism with the status of an industry and will consider suitable tax concessions for private entrepreneurs for activities like hotels, restaurants, motels, recreation centres, heritage hotels, amusement parks, museums, convention centres, craft villages and tourism related activities recognised by the government.

Government land will be offered at existing market value by way of equity participation for setting up joint ventures in tourism related projects.

What does Chhattisgarh have to offer that sets it apart from other tourist destinations in India?
Chhattisgarh, is a combination of urban as well as rural life. However, it is more rural than urban. Both, the urban and rural culture coexist in harmony.

The state is currently untapped by tourists coming to India, thus offering tourists adventures never been experienced before. It is an undiscovered paradise. The government is working towards highlighting the important areas of tourism in the state such as heritage tourism, cultural tourism, wild life tourism, religious tourism, adventure tourism, entertainment centres and tourism-based on the traditional health care.