Indian Tourism Ministry asked to consider relocating overseas offices
A reports in the India Times says that in view of increasing competition from different countries in attracting foreign tourists, the Indian Tourism Ministry has been asked to consider relocating its tourism offices abroad.
Calling for a review of India tourism offices abroad, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Tourism also called for “revamping” the government’s tourism website and making it more user-friendly for wider access to Indian destinations and products.
The Committee, in its latest report, observed that though the Ministry is making efforts to promote India as a preferred destination, increasingly strong competition from other players in the market cannot be ignored.
In this light the committee asked the ministry to “review the functioning of the overseas marketing offices and, if needed, relocate some of them in view of emerging tourism requirements.
Expressing disappointment at India lagging behind its neighbours in attracting foreign tourists, the Committee said this was despite the fact that the country was better endowed in terms of variety of destinations.
However, it appreciated the fact that there has been a growth of 53.1 per cent in foreign tourist arrivals and 69.8 per cent in foreign exchange earnings compared with the last fiscal.
The committee noted that the major constraints in attracting foreign tourists are inadequate budgetary support for promotion and marketing and non-availability of accommodation at major points of entry and major tourist destinations.
There is also fear about health and hygiene conditions, perceptions related to safety and security and unreasonably expensive packages compared with those provided by neighbouring countries, the Committee observed.
“The Ministry should lay emphasis on safety, security and hygiene aspects along with promotional activities through all major print and visual media at overseas markets,” the Committee said.
The Ministry should ask the Finance Ministry for adequate budgetary support, it added.
Expressing appreciation for the work done by the Ministry in its high-profile “Incredible India” campaign, the Committee recommended it should be reinforced in the global market “with more vigour and zeal.”
“The Incredible India campaign should also be done in various regional languages to boost domestic tourism,” it said.
However, the Committee expressed disappointment at the budgetary allocation of Rs 165 crore, instead of the requested Rs 188.75 crore, saying it was same as the last year’s.
“It will dampen the spirit of the Ministry and also put them in a difficulty to continue their efforts sincerely,” the Committee said.
Report by The Mole from The India Times
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