Rajasthan Tourism To Make Headway In International Arena

ET&T Staff - New Delhi

In an effort to augment the tourism potential of the state, Rajasthan tourism held a meeting in the Capital with leading Delhi-based tour operators to talk about its recent and future initiatives. Addressing the meeting, Vinod Zutshi secretary tourism, government of Rajasthan, said that, "The Jaipur airport is on its way to become an international airport. Scheduled flights to Thailand and Dubai are already operational. To that effect, Rajasthan has built many airstrips within the state, particularly at tourist destinations, where smaller aircraft can operate." Bearing this fact «in mind, the secretary called upon the airline industry to come forward and explore possibilities of commencing operations in the state.

Zutshi also indicated the setting up of an international convention centre at Jaipur. He expressed that the proposed international convention centre is likely to boost MICE tourism in the state. New thrust areas and tourist destinations were also discussed. According to him, Rajasthan is going to make headway in the area of spiritual tourism, eco tourism, health tourism and rural tourism. Heritage tourism, which is one of the strengths of Rajasthan tourism, is going to be strengthened further. Efforts are also being made to facilitate shooting of films in Rajasthan. The state also is one of the most favoured destinations of film industry.

Commissioner tourism, government of Rajasthan, Rajeeva Swaroop, further added that, "The Palace on Wheels is being refurbished and equipped with additional facilities from next season, starting from September. It has been such a big success in the international arena that most bookings for 2004-05 have already been done in advance."

Amitabh Kant, joint secretary tourism, government of India was invited as a special guest at the event. Kant said that Rajasthan is one of the best tourism products in India and the government of India has ambitious plans to boost Rajasthan in the international market this year by way of aggressive marketing and publicity. Subhash Goyal, president, IATO complimented Rajasthan tourism for organising such events and meetings with private players of the tourism industry. He emphasised the need to ensure better air and rail connectivity within Rajasthan. The meeting was also addressed by other tour operators.