Ministry of Tourism Engages in a Three-Day Event at the World Travel Market in London
The Ministry of Tourism of India made a grand entrance at the World Travel Market (WTM) 2019 in London, UK, from 4th to 6th November. The India Pavilion, themed 'Incredible India - Find the Incredible You', was inaugurated by the Secretary (Tourism) and High Commissioner of India to the UK, Ms. Ruchi Ghanashyam.
The pavilion is a bustling hub of activities, offering a taste of India's vibrant culture. Visitors can immerse themselves in cultural programmes, Yoga demonstrations, Henna application, Indian food tasting, turban tying, and saree tying. These activities aim to provide a unique and authentic experience, showcasing India as an experiential destination.
The India Pavilion also promotes the 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and the Statue of Unity. These significant milestones are being highlighted to underscore India's rich history and cultural heritage.
A total of 32 stakeholders, including State Governments, Union Territory Administrations, Air India, IRCTC, Hotels, Wellness resorts, and tour operators, are participating as co-exhibitors in the India Pavilion. This collaboration aims to showcase the diverse tourism offerings across India, appealing to a wide range of travellers.
The official delegation at WTM 2019 is led by Secretary of Union Ministry of Tourism, Yogendra Tripathi, and includes Additional Director General (Tourism) Rupinder Brar. A Panel Discussion was organised on Monday, themed 'Incredible India - Find the Incredible You', and moderated by Nina Dos Santos, CNN Europe Editor.
WTM is one of the must-attend business-to-business exhibitions for the travel and tourism industry worldwide. India's participation in such events is crucial to promote its tourism offerings and attract global attention. The events provide an excellent platform to showcase India's diverse cultural heritage, rich history, vibrant cities, and natural beauty, thereby attracting tourists and boosting the economy.
India's participation at WTM 2019 is expected to focus on cultural promotion, tourist attractions, adventure and nature, and the economic impact of increased tourism. The cultural promotion includes showcasing India's diverse festivals, cuisine, and traditional arts. Major tourist destinations like the Taj Mahal, the Red Fort, and various UNESCO World Heritage Sites are being promoted to appeal to history buffs and those interested in architecture. Adventure tourism opportunities, such as trekking in the Himalayas or exploring the beaches of Goa and Kerala, are also being highlighted.
Increased tourism can significantly boost India's economy by generating revenue and creating jobs in the tourism sector. As the world continues to travel, India's participation in events like WTM 2019 is essential to stay competitive and attract global tourists.
The India Pavilion, showcasing India's vibrant culture and diverse tourism offerings, offers visitors a chance to engage in activities like Yoga demonstrations, Henna application, and saree tying, aiming to provide an authentic experience and reinforce India as an experiential travel destination. Additionally, the pavilion promotes significant historical milestones like the 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and the Statue of Unity, highlighting India's rich general-news history and cultural heritage.
