Rajasthan’s tourism sector makes a case for last-mile connectivity

The state government set aside Rs 1,000 crore for tourism development and promotion –

In the last two budgets, the state government set aside Rs 1,000 crore for tourist development and promotion. The tourism and hospitality industries are requesting that the government put a strong emphasis on sustainability, last-mile connectivity to destinations outside of urban areas, and improving the quality of experience in order to draw high-value tourists. The chief minister, who also holds the finance portfolio, is scheduled to present the budget for 2023–24 on February 10.

Few states would be able to duplicate what the Rajasthan government has done for tourism, according to Apurv Kumar, head of the Federation of Hospitality and Tourism of Rajasthan (FHTR) and co-chair of CII’s Northern Region Tourism and Hospitality. Tourist arrivals, which have surpassed records, are clear evidence of the results. The attention should now turn to

Even if the business sector is currently making small strides to attain these goals, according to Kumar, the notion of ESG (environmental, social, and governance) can be applied to the tourism industry.

“We must make tourism viable so that the millions of people working in the industry can continue to find employment possibilities. We anticipate that the Budget will emphasize environmental protection, sustainability, and the adoption of best practices in these areas. Rajasthan can further set itself apart from the competition by forging new ground with this.

He claimed that in addition to becoming a fantastic travel destination, the state ought to set high standards for ethical travel. “This will draw high-end travelers because environmental responsibility is becoming more widely accepted worldwide. Rajasthan may once more outperform other states in this area, Kumar continued.

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He claimed that the fusion of tourism and culture, arts, heritage, handicrafts, and textiles has served as a tourist draw and that the magic could become even more alluring if the natural synergies were strengthened.

In addition, he asked the state administration to pressure the federal government into designating tourism as an infrastructure project, as this will enable the sector to obtain financing at more favorable terms.

“People from many areas of life are involved in this industry. It generates a lot of jobs. The industry will be able to raise capital at more affordable rates if the sector is given infrastructure status. The sector will further be revitalized with new investments and expansions because tourism already has a significant impact on the state’s economy, noted Kumar.