DHARAMSALA: Speaking in Nagrota Bagwan, RA Bali, the Chairman of the Tourism Corporation, unveiled the Himachal government's comprehensive plan to elevate the state's tourism sector. With an eye on exploiting the vast tourism potential, the state is gearing up to enhance its adventure, religious, and natural tourism offerings.
Bali announced a bold initiative to attract five crore tourists annually in the future through a significant investment of ₹2500 crore, facilitated by the Asian Development Bank (ADB). An initial sum of ₹1300 crore has already been sanctioned to jumpstart the development activities.
The state government is not stopping at infrastructure alone; it has earmarked ₹400 crore in the current fiscal year's budget for tourism promotion activities, signaling a strong commitment to place Himachal Pradesh on the global tourism map. Bali highlighted Himachal's status as one of the safest destinations for tourists worldwide, an accolade that adds to the state's appeal.
A special focus is being placed on transforming the Kangra district into a tourism capital, aligning with the Chief Minister's vision. An allocation of ₹300 crore is dedicated to tourism development within the Nagrota Bagwan assembly constituency alone. This fund will support the construction of an international-level music fountain, a modern facility-equipped tourism hotel, the state's largest model school, and two sports complexes. These developments aim to provide enhanced sports facilities to the youth, fostering a conducive environment for sports and recreation.
Bali also took the opportunity to visit various departmental stalls set up to showcase the state government's achievements and initiatives over the past year. The event served as a platform for addressing approximately 190 public grievances, with most being resolved immediately and others earmarked for follow-up by departmental officials.
On this occasion Deputy Commissioner Hemraj Bairba, SDM Munish Sharma, HAS probationer Pooja, Block Congress Committee President Man Singh, Urban Committee Vice President Neeraj, along with officers and employees were also present.