By TIOL News Service

NEW DELHI, SEPT 25, 2016: AT the valedictory session of the Incredible India Tourism, the Union Minister, Dr Mahesh Sharma, and Tourism Secretary, Mr Vinod Zutshi, announced the setting up of a Task Force headed by Secretary, Tourism, with membership from relevant ministries, state governments, and industry associations to undertake strategic planning.

He also announced the setting up of an investor facilitation desk to handhold investors and facilitate projects; and Organise investor meets in states with the support of Ministry of Tourism.

“We will assist and support investors for making India the tourist destination of choice,” stated Dr Sharma.

The Minister reiterated the support and assistance of the Ministry of Tourism for investment projects. He referred to the tourist helpline in 12 languages and highlighted that a portal is being opened for inviting suggestions. “Let us join hands to give tourists a memorable experience,” he added.

At the event, states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Uttarakhand,and Chattisgarh exchanged 86 MoUs during the session and many more are in the pipeline, aggregating close to Rs 15,000 crores. Recapping the proceedings at the IITIS, Mr Zutshi said that it had met the desired objectives and highlighted tourism investment potential in the country. Gujarat exchanged MOU close to 9000 crores, Karnataka with 2600 crores, Rajasthan with 1000 crores, Uttarakhand with 500 crores and Chhattisgarh with 12 crores. Also B R Shetty group is keen to invest 450 crores and Costa Cruise 750 crores, Triveni Singapore close to 800 crores in the country.

Ms Cecile Fruman, Global Director, Trade and Competitiveness, World Bank, noted that the tourism sector is among the top sectors with potential to create jobs. India must articulate a strategy across the country, build hard and soft infrastructure including IT, plan investments, build skills and undertake stakeholder dialogue to boost tourism.

The World Bank is supporting India’s Buddhist Circuit development and will provide support for sustainable tourism development including through funds, she added.

Mr Chandrajit Banerjee, Director General, CII, said that the IITIS 2016 had the participation of 29 states and Union Territories and about 3000 delegates attended. About 700 investible projects were offered, and 16 special state sessions were held. States also took part in an exhibition which was widely appreciated. International investors from about 16 countries participated, including Germany, Qatar, Malaysia, USA and others.