SEMINAR ON "NEW VISTAS IN TOURISM"

Indian Institute of Public Administration, J&K Regional Branch in collaboration with Department of Tourism, J&K and Central University of Jammu organized a seminar on “New Vistas in Tourism”. The seminar was attended by various stakeholders of the tourism industry, officers of tourism development authorities, members of various tourism associations, faculty members and research scholars of various Universities, members of IIPA and civil society.

Professor Sandeep Kulsheshtra, Director, Indian Institute of Travel and Tourism Management, Gwalior (Under Ministry of Tourism, Government of India) in his key note address highlighted the importance of good governance in the development of tourism in the region. Highlighting the emerging trends at the international and national level, he said that it is important to involve all the stakeholders in the tourism development process. He emphasized the role of training in developing the skilled manpower and said that Jammu & Kashmir can have a competitive edge by organizing capacity building programmes.

Mr. Soujanya Sharma, Director (Tourism) in his address said that tourism is the backbone of our economy and highlighted various new initiatives sanctioned for the Jammu region including proposed sound and light show, developing mantalai, developing way side amenities and other. Inviting the participation of key stakeholders he said that the tourism trade should ensure that the tourists go back with positive experiences which will help in building the destination image of Jammu.

Earlier Dr. C M Seth in his presentation highlighted the potential of eco-tourism in the state. Citing examples from China and reflecting upon rich tourism resources of Jammu & Kashmir, he said it is important to come up with the eco-tourism policy for the state and engage the communities in the tourism process.

Captain Anil Gour presented the industry perspective and discussed about the challenges faced by the tourism industry in the state. He said that the tourism industry should be recognized as job creator, organize fam tours and also rationalize tax structure.

Professor Deepak Raj Gupta, Head and Dean, Department of Travel and Tourism, Central University of Jammu introduced the concept of Volunteer tourism for developing community based tourism. Citing both national and international examples, he said that volunteer tourism can help in engaging, educating and empowering communities.
Dr. Anil Gupta, Joint Secretary, IIPA (J&K) conducted the proceedings of the function.