President Droupadi Murmu Highlights Heritage Tourism In Parliament Address

There is a growing interest in the world towards heritage tourism in India, said President Droupadi Murmu while addressing the joint sitting of the two houses of Parliament on Wednesday (31 January).

Highlighting the achievements and various initiatives taken by the Government of India during the last 10 years, for development of tourism sector, pilgrimage destinations and historical sites across the country, the President said, “Tourism is a big sector providing employment to the youth. In the last 10 years, my government has done unprecedented work in the field of tourism. Along with the number of domestic tourists in India, the number of foreign tourists coming to India has also increased."

President Murmu added, “The reason for the growth in the tourism sector is owed to India’s growing stature. Today the world wants to explore and know India. Apart from this, the scope of tourism has also increased due to excellent connectivity.

"Building of airports at various places is also advantageous. Now, Northeast is witnessing record tourist arrivals. Now there is heightened excitement about Andaman-Nicobar and Lakshadweep islands."

She further said that the government has emphasised on the development of pilgrimage destinations and historical sites across the country which has now made pilgrimage in India easier.

"At the same time, there is a growing interest in the world towards heritage tourism in India. In the last one year, 8.5 crore people have visited Kashi. More than five crore people have visited Mahakaal. More than 19 lakh people have visited Kedar Dham," she said.

Referring to Ayodhya, the President said, "In the five days of Pran Pratishtha,13 lakh devotees have visited Ayodhya Dham itself. There is unprecedented expansion of facilities at pilgrimage sites in every part of India, East-West-North-South."

President Murmu added, “Government also wants to make India a leading destination for meetings and exhibitions related sectors. For this, facilities like Bharat Mandapam, Yashobhoomi have been created. In near future, tourism will become a major source of employment."