TFP Bureau, Raipur, August 30, 2024: A pivotal conference of Tourism Ministers from Western and Central States and Union Territories was held in Panaji, Goa, under the chairmanship of Union Tourism Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. The meeting, aimed at discussing the prospects and challenges of tourism development, was attended by Chhattisgarh’s Cabinet Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap, who outlined the state’s ambitious tourism plans for the next five years while seeking additional resources and support from the central government.
The conference focused on collaboration between states to enhance tourism infrastructure, promote new destinations, and attract private sector investment. During the event, Union Minister Shekhawat emphasized the need for a united effort to elevate India’s tourism sector to global standards.
Representing Chhattisgarh, Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap highlighted the state’s rich potential, underscoring its ancient monuments, wildlife, temples, and cultural heritage. He detailed ongoing projects such as the ‘Tribal Tourism Circuit’ under the Swadesh Darshan scheme and the near-completion work at Dongargarh under the Prasad Yojana. Kashyap also announced future initiatives, including the development of a circuit connecting five Shaktipeeths and the establishment of a ropeway at Maa Kudargadhi Devi Sthal in Surajpur district.
Minister Kashyap reiterated the state’s commitment to promoting eco-tourism, agri-tourism, and rural tourism, and mentioned plans to lease out Chhattisgarh Tourism Board properties for private sector management to enhance tourist facilities along highways.
In his remarks, Kashyap expressed gratitude for the support received from the central government and requested further assistance to propel Chhattisgarh into a leading tourism destination. He also called for the approval of new schemes and the appointment of a consultant from the central government for the development of Bilaspur and Jagdalpur under the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 initiative.
The conference, attended by key figures including Union Minister of State for Tourism Shri Suresh Gopi and tourism ministers from Goa, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh, provided a platform for states to share best practices and collaborate on innovative solutions for boosting tourism across India.
