HP Tourism, CII To Hold Himachal Tourism Conclave In December

Ropes In Ernst & Young For Integrated Tourism Planning

ET&T Staff - Mumbai

In an effort to augment tourism to Himachal Pradesh, the department of tourism in association with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) northern region, is organising the Himachal Tourism Conclave from December 10 - 12, 2004 at Hotel Peterhof, Shimla.

To maximise the impact, it has also roped in Ernst and Young (F&Y) as the knowledge-consulting partner for the conclave. The objective, therefore, is to create a vibrant platform which will mobilise opinions and suggestions for adopting a global approach to tourism visioning and planning for the state.

To further make the event impactful the Himachal tourism department, CII and E&Y have designed a powerful three-day conclave with back-to-back sessions, which have been planned very methodically and in a systematic manner. The topics vary from identifying the need and approach to developing a long-term vision and an integrated strategic plan for the state, which is most critical for sustainable competitiveness. Another topic to be addressed is the need to undertake effective implementation through destination planning, public private funding mechanisms, well-developed all-round marketing planning, sustainable environment principle for development and an aligned and accountable human resource.

The sessions would also identify a portfolio of tourism segments which the state of Himachal can develop to effectively do seasonalise its tourism industry and these sessions culminate with the state offering a bouquet of tourism projects, which can be developed by private investors seeking long-term benefits through sustainable partnerships.

Broadly, the conclave would have two dimensions viz invest Himachal and explore Himachal.

Invest Himachal: The investors' meet will feature a series of one-to-one business meetings between representatives of the tourism sector in Himachal Pradesh (both government and private) with investors on a specific shelf of investment projects proposed by the state government and private sector. Consultants, eminent personalities and state government officials would present various investment projects and address sessions on investment opportunities in the tourism sector in Himachal.

Explore Himachal: A showcase for the tourism potential and cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh, the three-day meet would be a gathering of stakeholders in the tourism industry, both from the private and public sector (including state and central governments). During the event, Himachal tourism would promote specific destinations and events through multimedia presentations, exhibitions, familiarisation tours and cultural programmes.