Asserting that Punjab’s tourism industry is going to be the driver of state’s economic growth, the state Tourism and Cultural Affairs Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu on Monday said that the Government’s endeavour is to make tourism contribute 20 percent to Punjab’s GDP.
“The State has a vibrant culture and dynamic people who have traditionally open their homes and hearts to guests from all over the globe,” said Sidhu while showcasing Punjab as a brand holding immense potential for employment generation and economic growth.
Representing the state in India Tourism Mart-2018, in which Punjab is a partner state, Sidhu said: “Golden Temple is the largest visited monument in India which sees a daily footfall of more than 1.25 lakh persons, which is even more than Taj Mahal.”
He stressed that to explore Punjab Tourism’s potential in its full strength, the Government has to act as a catalyst by building the right infrastructure and by making the right pitch in Indian and the overseas market. “As we are on a path of creating facilities for tourists in Punjab, we call the tourists from all over the globe to visit Punjab and observe its diversity and strong unity of religions, its heritage and cultural richness,” said Sidhu.
Sidhu said that Punjab has tied up with tour operators of international repute who would play a yeoman’s role in connecting with NRI Diaspora with their roots in Punjab back home.
“Punjab Government would make available arrangements regarding boarding, lodging and all other necessary amenities for the tourists at the places of religious and historical significance,” he said.
Punjab Tourism and Cultural Department secretary Vikas Pratap informed that about 18 international reputed tour and travel operators shall be visiting Amritsar and surrounding areas from September 19 for a Familiarisation Trip (FAM trip).
“Punjab had brought co-exhibitors to promote its destinations like Gobindgarh Fort, Sadda Pind and various farm stay options of Amritsar, Hoshiarpur, etc,” he said.