Correspondent
Assam Tourism Soars to New Heights: Industrial Status Granted to Boost Sector.
The main focus of the meeting was to collaborate and design attractive travel packages that would effectively promote the beauty of Assam. The Tourism Minister encouraged the tour operators to work closely with his department and other stakeholders to give a significant boost to the tourism sector. To help the operators understand Assam's unique offerings, the Minister promised them a tour of the state, enabling them to create personalized packages catering to the preferences of the tourists.
Assam is blessed with a diverse range of attractions, including picturesque hills, captivating wetlands, lush reserve forests, delectable cuisine, vibrant culture, charming rural landscapes, and abundant flora and fauna, making it an immersive experience for tourists and filmmakers alike. The stunning tea gardens and lush green golf courses also serve as major draws for visitors.
Understanding the pivotal role of tourism in socio-economic development, the Assam cabinet took a significant step by granting Industrial status to the tourism sector in the state. This decision came as a result of the remarkable increase in tourist footfalls - witnessing a staggering 573% rise in domestic tourists and an impressive 783% surge in foreign tourists in 2023. The Minister attributed this growth to improved law and order, absence of protests and strikes, enhanced infrastructure, and the establishment of new premium hotels, including luxurious five-star accommodations and resorts in popular tourist destinations like Guwahati, Kaziranga, and Manas.
The Minister stressed the importance of the one-on-one meeting with tour operators, stating that it had a more significant impact compared to road shows as it provided valuable feedback and suggestions. He expressed his enthusiasm in making the state's tourism sector even more vibrant and resilient in the future.
The Assam government has been actively undertaking various initiatives to promote tourism, including organizing road shows in major cities and participating in tourism marts and fairs both nationally and internationally. Additionally, there are plans in place to revamp the Assam Tourist Information Centre at Connaught Place, Delhi, to further bolster tourism promotion in the Delhi-NCR region.
A noteworthy development came in November 2022 when the Assam government launched a new tourism policy branded as 'Awesome Assam,' with a strong emphasis on sustainability. The policy document extensively highlights the state's commitment to preserving its natural and cultural heritage through responsible and eco-friendly practices.
Furthermore, to enhance tourist experiences, a comprehensive website dedicated to Assam Tourism was launched, offering tourists easy access to various services and information on a single user-friendly platform. This initiative aims to make it convenient for travelers to explore the beauty and offerings of Assam.
Assam is poised to become a prominent tourist destination, attracting visitors with its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and commitment to sustainable tourism practices. With the continued support of tour operators and the implementation of innovative policies, the state's tourism sector is set to flourish in the coming years.