The campaign Incredible India led by Renuka Chowdhury, the Tourism Minister to attract tourists from Britain, was a great success to the pleasant surprise of many hardened travel operators who over the past few years invariably termed such campaigns as damp squib.
At a well-attended dinner function at Bombay Brasserie, the minister minced no words in saying that India was bigger than 23 countries of Europe put together. In every region "you experience different cultures, food and its own exotic attractions. An India visit is in fact experience India".
When asked whether private carriers would be allowed to fly on India-UK route, since the number of flights have been increased from 19 to 40, she restricted herself to saying that India has an open sky policy and the rules for charter flights have been relaxed. She also praised Air-India regional director AK Sharma for securing more slots for flights to Heathrow.
Most operators were excited with the information that the Tourism Ministry had collaborated with the Railways to give tourists experience of rural India on special trains.
The minister's articulation of the attractions of modern India was blended with the details of eco-friendly and rural tourism, karmic celebrations and facilities for spa treatment, "heal your body, heal your mind". She pointed out "we are hands on" for the growth of tourism, which has so far recorded over 25 per cent increase this year.
{{/usCountry}}The minister's articulation of the attractions of modern India was blended with the details of eco-friendly and rural tourism, karmic celebrations and facilities for spa treatment, "heal your body, heal your mind". She pointed out "we are hands on" for the growth of tourism, which has so far recorded over 25 per cent increase this year.
{{/usCountry}}The CEO of a charter company told Hindustan Times: "The earlier obsessive focus on the heritage and Taj Mahal et al does not attract the youth that much as does the exotic food, sanctuaries, experience of different cultures along with modern facilities."
To a query about trains by the head of an English travel house Chowdhury said, "You gave us the trains, now come and enjoy them."
Amitabh Kant, Jt secretary in the Tourism Ministry spoke about the growth of the tourism industry and outlined the startegies adopted to not only attract more tourists but also for providing more facilities and comfort to visitors from abroad.