Abrar Nabi
Srinagar, Aug 06 (KNS): Minister of culture tourism Gajinder Singh Shekhawat on Wednesday said that tourism will propel economy of india to third largest.
"India's tourism sector will become a major economic and employment generator, driving the nation to the third largest economy", he told reporters here at Srinagar.
"Under PM Modi's leadership, we have transformed India from the 11th to the 5th economy, and now we aim for the 3rd," he added.
He said that as India's economic prosperity increased, tourism witnessed a boom. The sector will be a key driver in elevating our economy," he said.
Speaking on the developing new tourist destinations to manage the increasing number of visitors, the Union Minister said, "all our established tourist destinations have become congested due to the surge in tourists. To decongest these areas, we need to develop new points of attraction and sites."
Addressing issues of connectivity and development in tourist spots, the minister assured that the government is committed to improve infrastructure and services.
"Tourism is primarily a matter of state governments, but we have asked all state governments to create plans for new destinations.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelThe Indian government will support these plans, whether it's connectivity for commutation or communication," he added.
The minister said that the government is making efforts to enhance the skills of tourist guides through online courses and training programs. "We have made an online course module for tourist guide skill enhancement. During the off-season, tourist guides can enhance their skills and career advancement through physical training at our tourism institutes," he added.
On political instability in neighboring countries, the minister expressed concern over its potential impact on India but assured vigilance. "The Indian government is very vigilant about the situation in our neighborhood. We are aware of the possibility of it having a negative impact on India," he said.
"The way India's borders have been secured and peace has been established, terrorism is about to end in India. There are only four districts left affected by Naxalism," he added.(KNS)