New Delhi: Union Ministry of Tourism organised a national consultative workshop on Global tourism standards at Kevadia, Gujarat, to discuss strategies for developing world-class tourist destinations. Union Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat presided over the meeting.
He said the Central Government would continue supporting tourism infrastructure. However, he stressed that States and Union Territories must also take active responsibility. Therefore, he called for integrated planning and effective destination management.
The two-day workshop brought together senior officials, industry stakeholders and experts. Participants discussed sustainable development, ease of doing business and stakeholder participation. Moreover, they reviewed methods to improve visitor experience across destinations.
Shri Suman Billa delivered the opening remarks. After that, Shri Bhuvnesh Kumar addressed the gathering and outlined policy priorities. Shri Suresh Gopi also spoke and highlighted the need for collaboration to strengthen India’s tourism ecosystem.
A detailed presentation on Global tourism standards followed during the session. Officials discussed integrated destination planning, tourism infrastructure and sustainability measures. In addition, they examined ways to enhance service quality and coordination among stakeholders.
Workshop focuses on integrated planning and sustainability
Participants reviewed the tourism model of Ekta Nagar and the Statue of Unity. The presentation highlighted integrated planning, visitor management and sustainable development practices. Furthermore, experts explained how structured planning can improve long-term destination performance.
Technical sessions covered the proposed National Adventure Tourism Framework. They also addressed ease of doing business in tourism. Additionally, officials discussed City Level MICE Promotion Bureau Guidelines and digital marketing through the Incredible India platform.
States including Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, Kerala, Telangana, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh and Tamil Nadu presented their destination strategies. They shared plans to improve infrastructure and promote sustainable tourism. Consequently, the workshop encouraged knowledge sharing among regions.
The second day will include further presentations from States and Union Territories. Officials will continue discussions on proposals aligned with Global tourism standards. The meeting aims to support competitive, sustainable and experience-driven tourism growth across India.
