Thanks to the resounding word-of-mouth publicity generated during the country's G20 presidency, India's tourism industry is gearing up for a spectacular takeoff. This global platform showcased India's breathtaking landscapes and diverse culture over a year, creating a buzz that's set to propel the nation onto the international tourism stage, as stated by Manisha Saxena, Director General of Tourism.
G20: A Grand Showcase of India's Splendour
Saxena cited the immense potential that this event has unlocked for the country's tourism sector. She spoke at the unveiling of Mastercard's flagship lifestyle program 'Priceless India,' emphasizing the Ministry of Tourism's intention to capitalize on the gains and experiences cultivated during India's G20 presidency.
Ambitious Blueprint
The recently concluded G20 summit had an ambitious design of events, which featured over 60 venues and hosted more than 200 events. This platform was not just about political discourse but also showcased India's diversity, beauty, and cultural richness.
Assets were created, experiences were carefully curated, and cultural programs were thoughtfully arranged. This massive undertaking has had a profound effect, giving rise to a dynamic community of people now equipped to host future events. This pool of knowledge and resources will significantly enrich India's capacity to host international gatherings and conventions.
Tourism Initiatives: 'I Do' and 'Meet in India'
The tourism department's recent initiatives aim to tap into the momentum gained from the G20 presidency. The 'I do' campaign is positioning India as a premier wedding destination on a global scale. India's diverse landscapes and cultural heritage make it an attractive choice for couples seeking an extraordinary wedding experience.
Additionally, the 'Meet in India' campaign centres on conference tourism, often referred to as Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events (MICE). The nation's readiness to host major events is now fortified by the facilities created at the 60 G20 venues. Instead of concentrating conventions and conferences in tier-1 cities, India offers diverse options based on regional climate, culture, and locale. This move is expected to make India a preferred destination for meeting and event planners from around the world, expanding opportunities and driving economic growth.
Mastercard's 'Priceless India': A Catalyst for Tourism
The 'Priceless India' program, unveiled by Raja Rajamannar, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer of Mastercard, seeks to further amplify tourism as a pivotal driver of India's flourishing economy. It aims to redefine experiential travel within India by offering immersive cultural odysseys across ten dynamically evolving passion points. These encompass culinary experiences, sports, entertainment, wellness, and many more.
This program comes at a crucial juncture, as India seeks to lure international and domestic travellers with compelling experiences that showcase the country's incredible diversity. It aims to provide international and domestic travellers with unique, memorable experiences that capture the essence of India's rich heritage and culture.
As India opens its arms to the world, these initiatives promise to make every traveller's journey truly priceless. These efforts are poised to transform tourism in India, offering travellers unique and unforgettable experiences in this captivating nation. With the legacy of the G20 presidency as a solid foundation, India is now ready to showcase its true potential as a global tourism destination.
(With inputs from PTI)