Punjab Tourism Launches Inagural Tourism Summit and Travel Mart in Mohali

12th September 2023, Mohali: The Punjab Tourism Summit and Travel Mart, held in Mohali, Punjab, began with a grand inaugural ceremony at Amity University. The event, which runs from September 11 to 13, marks an important milestone in Punjab’s efforts to become a leading global tourist destination.

The summit saw the participation of esteemed speakers, industry leaders, and tourism enthusiasts from India and abroad. The Honourable Chief Minister of Punjab, S. Bhagwant Mann, inaugurated the summit, highlighting Punjab’s rich cultural heritage and its commitment to tourism growth.

The ceremony also featured celebrities like Kapil Sharma, who appreciated Punjab Tourism’s promotion of tourism and the film industry in the state. Film producer Bobby Bedi, stand-up artist Sunil Pal, managing director of ITC Hotels Samir M. C., and vice president of Ramoji Film City A. V. Rao were also present.

Punjab’s Tourism Minister Anmol Gagan Maan, discussed key thematic circuits in the state, including devotional, border tourism, and wellness. She emphasized Punjab’s reputation for hospitality and ambitious goals in water and adventure tourism.

To facilitate investment, Punjab Tourism has established a single-window clearance system. They have also created a festival calendar that showcases lesser-known parts of Punjab, such as Hola Mohalla and the ‘Rangla Punjab’ festival, which celebrates food, color, and culture.

 Principal Secretary Rakhi Gupta Bhandari Shares Vision to Transform Punjab into a Premier Tourism Destination

Principal Secretary Rakhi Gupta Bhandari expressed her team’s passion and vision to establish Punjab as a highly sought-after tourism destination. She emphasized that the state possesses a diverse range of attractions, ranging from religious and wellness tourism to adventure and natural wonders. Rakhi believes that the key lies in creating a strong brand identity and effective communication strategies.

Ms Rakhi highlighted the significance of uplifting the rural heritage of Punjab, where tourists can immerse themselves in the authentic rural lifestyle, savor traditional cuisine, and bask in the tranquillity of being close to nature. This approach, she believes, will provide a unique and enriching experience for visitors while promoting the essence of Punjab’s culture and traditions.

The ongoing Punjab Tourism Summit and Travel Mart is a significant starting point in realizing these ambitions. The Principal Secretary expressed her optimism and confidence in achieving their goals through collaborative efforts. She emphasized the importance of a unified approach and reiterated that success in the tourism industry requires the involvement and commitment of various stakeholders, including government bodies, industry leaders, and the local community.

Rakhi further highlighted the need to create a brand identity for Punjab tourism. By effectively communicating the state’s vast range of attractions to a global audience, Punjab will be able to position itself as the most preferred destination for travellers seeking diverse experiences. This would include showcasing the religious and historical sites, promoting wellness tourism offerings, and attracting adventure seekers to Punjab’s captivating landscapes.

The Principal Secretary also stressed the aim to enhance rural tourism experiences. By facilitating access to rural areas and promoting them as authentic destinations, tourists can discover the serene beauty of Punjab’s countryside, engage in local activities, and connect with warm and welcoming rural communities. She acknowledged that the journey towards transforming Punjab into a premier tourism hub will require sustained efforts and collaboration among stakeholders. However, with the ongoing summit serving as a milestone, she expressed her firm belief that Punjab has the potential to achieve its dream of becoming a globally recognized tourism destination.

In conclusion, Principal Secretary Ms. Rakhi’s interview shed light on the team’s vision and passion for positioning Punjab as a top tourism destination. With a focus on brand identity, effective communication, and the promotion of rural heritage, the state aims to provide visitors with a unique and immersive experience. Through the collective efforts of all stakeholders, Punjab envisions a bright future in the global tourism arena.

Author: Anirban