Tourism in Rajasthan is progressing rapidly on the tracks of growth, powered by a double-engine approach.
Efforts are being made swiftly to establish the tourism sector as a vital component of the state's GDP. Thanks to the continuous endeavours of Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma and Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, the signing of 142 MoUs for investment in the tourism sector, before the Rising Rajasthan Investment Summit, is a noteworthy achievement. This is expected to bring in approximately ₹14,000 crores in investment and create direct employment opportunities for around 59,000 individuals.
The event, which was organised to attract investments in the tourism sector, has been aptly named the Rising Rajasthan Pre-Tourism Summit. This summit holds great significance as both Sharma and Kumari were present throughout the event. As the state's finance minister and the head of the tourism department, Kumari is making every effort to elevate Rajasthan's tourism sector, aiming to realise the ambitious projects of the central government, as envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Just as the central government is referred to as a double-engine government, tourism development in Rajasthan is racing ahead on the tracks of growth, and it will continue to do so.
Chief Minister's Pragmatic Vision: Tourism Development Alongside Water, Electricity, and Roads
During the pre-summit, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma addressed investors and articulated a clear vision for advancing tourism. He emphasised that without the development of water, electricity, and roads, tourism cannot thrive. Therefore, the development of these essential utilities is a high priority for the state government. If these three fundamental needs are met, tourism will develop alongside them.
The chief minister positioned himself as a tourist and acknowledged the invaluable suggestions from the investors present at the pre-summit, as these individuals have dedicated their lives to enhancing the tourism sector. He stressed the importance of promoting religious tourism in the state and elaborated on government initiatives aimed at boosting this sector. In his simple and sincere address, Sharma outlined the government's priorities, needs, and the expected cooperation from investors. If investors embrace the vision articulated by him at the summit, they will soon be able to proclaim that Rajasthan has been liberated from bureaucratic red tape, with the government steering towards sustainable development.
Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari: The Driving Force Behind Mainstreaming Tourism
Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari is pivotal in integrating Rajasthan tourism into the mainstream. This is no exaggeration, as she has a deep connection with the tourism sector. Kumari comes from a background focused on the preservation and promotion of tourism, and she is acutely aware of even the smallest issues faced by the sector. She understands the challenges stakeholders must navigate within various departments to resolve these issues, which is why she has emphasised the robust implementation of a single-window clearance system.
She intends to increase the tourism sector's contribution to the state's GDP, and she is actively working towards this goal. Kumari is optimistic that in the coming months, the state will be recognised as one of the leading tourism destinations in the country and the world. During her address at the summit, she reiterated this commitment. Both she and Sharma assured investors that the government stands by their side. The experience at the pre-tourism summit was unique for all investors, as they felt invited to Rajasthan under the guidance of a double-engine government that follows central policies: "Padharo Mhare Des."
Tourism Secretary Ravi Jain and the Tourism Department Team
During the summit, Tourism Secretary Ravi Jain presented a short documentary showcasing investment opportunities in Rajasthan. He explained the government's intent and the department's working style to the investors. The way Jain led the tourism summit, along with senior officials and staff executing their roles, was reminiscent of a grand Indian wedding. Observing their work ethic, it was evident that the officials are confident, that under Kumari's leadership, Rajasthan Tourism will achieve the acclaim and recognition it has long deserved as a premier tourism destination.