India plans to host some of its key G20 summit meetings in ‘historic cities’ to draw attention to heritage sites, in its year of presidency.

As per reports, the meetings will be held at 55 locations across the country that apart from state capitals and metro cities and will include cities of historical importance.

Among the locations are Runn of Kutch, Siliguri, Hampi and Khajuraho. As reported by PTI, top officials of the tourism ministry have said that the idea behind choosing historic cites, among other places, to host meetings, is to put a 'spotlight on heritage sites'.

India is expected to host over 200 G20 meetings during its year-long Presidency of the G20 from December 1, 2022, to November 30, 2023.

‘These 55 locations will also include Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities which have picturesque landscape and are rich in cultural heritage, said a senior official of the Tourism ministry, as quoted by PTI. 'So, we are doing a meeting at the Runn of Kutch, one in Siliguri, there will be meetings at Hampi and Khajuraho as well,' added the official.

When asked if any of the G20 meetings will be held close to heritage sites, the official said, 'Meetings would be held in a convention hall or similar facility. But, they (participants) may be taken there for events. So, there may be events or visits to put a spotlight on these heritage sites.'

While metros such as Delhi and well-known state capitals will host meetings, smaller cities are also being included to give a more diverse and rich experience to participants, officials said.  India will assume the Presidency of the G20 for a year