IIPA J&K organizes a seminar on World Tourism Day

IIPA J&K organizes a seminar on World Tourism Day

Indian Institute of Public Administration, J&K Regional Branch in collaboration with School of Hospitality and Tourism Management, University of Jammu organized a seminar on “Jammu Tourism: Potential, Challenges & Way Forward” on the occasion of World Tourism Day. The seminar was attended by various stakeholders of the tourism industry, faculty members, research scholars, students of University and members of IIPA and civil society. Sh. Parvez Dewan, IAS (Retd.) Former Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India in his presentation gave insights about the rich tourism and cultural potential of all the districts of Jammu division. He emphasized that the development of destinations should be strategically planned so that the authenticity and sustainability of the place is maintained. He further stressed upon the need to promote “local tourism” wherein the people within the state explore and experience unseen places and urged upon the students to explore entrepreneurial opportunities in this sector. Sh. S M Sahni, Convener, INTACH in his detailed presentation shared about the intangible and tangible cultural heritage of the region. He emphasized on the need for preservation and conservation of local art and craft. Dr. C M Seth, Vice-Chairman, IIPA (J&K) in his presentation talked about the rich natural diversity of the state and emphasized the need for eco-tourism policy in the state. Prof. Parikshat Singh Manhas, Director, SHTM in his address said that local community participation in the tourism development is essential to prevent economic leakage and that digitalization is the key to put Jammu tourism on a global map. Mr. Vaibhav Sharma, Co-Founder, Travelers Dost & Himalayas 360 in his presentation said that private sector especially professionally qualified youth can play a vital role in promoting unexplored destinations of the Jammu division. Dr. Anil Gupta, Joint Secretary, IIPA (J&K) conducted the proceedings of the function. The function was organized under the guidance of Er. J B S Johar, Secretary, IIPA (J&K)