The Delhi Government has decided to develop the national Capital into one of the top tourism capitals of the world, said Jasmine Shah, vice-chairperson, Dialogue and Development Commission (DDC) on Wednesday, adding that the tourism industry will play a key role in accelerating economic growth in Delhi.
Addressing the fourth edition of the ‘Delhi Tourism e-Conclave’ organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) as the chief guest, Shah said that Delhi Chief Minister, Arvind Kejriwal has announced his vision for 2047 to develop Delhi into one of the top global cities, which requires the support and expertise of all stakeholders including the industry.
“The DDC and Delhi Government across various departments have been continuously designing and implementing short-term, mid-term and long-term measures towards this ambitious vision,” said Shah.
Shah highlighted some key initiatives of the Government to boost tourism in Delhi including the ‘Dekho Meri Dilli’ the Delhi tourism App launched in September which has recorded downloads from across the globe.
“The Delhi Film Policy to brand Delhi as a vibrant tourist and travel destination and monthly fairs and festivals are also recording a footfall of over 30,000 people per day.
Babasaheb-the grand musical organised by the Delhi Government was another pioneering initiative to make a grand musical theatre based on the life of Dr BR Ambedkar accessible to the general public and has also recorded a footfall of over 30,000 people every day since its launch,” said Shah.
Sharing the broad policy interventions for the future of tourism in the city, Shah said that the national Capital has the potential to become a street food capital.
“The city Government is also working towards reducing the regulatory burden on Hotels, Restaurants and Café (HORECA) and Breakfast and Bed (B&B) industries,” Shah said.
“The Government is also reviving over 500 lakes and water bodies and developing over 1,000 neighbourhood parks with world-class infrastructure. These spaces are being designed as accessible venues with all public amenities,” he said. Shah also expressed the Delhi Government’s keen interest in engaging with the CII and its industry members in branding Delhi as a top global tourism capital, while inaugurating a report drafted by KPMG regarding tourism in Delhi.