In a bold move aimed at revolutionizing the hospitality and tourism landscape, the Uttar Pradesh government has unveiled plans to attract investments worth Rs 32,000 crore into the sector. A senior government official revealed that the state is gearing up to accommodate an anticipated annual tourist footfall of 850 million by 2028, signaling a remarkable growth trajectory.
The focal point of this ambitious endeavor lies in bolstering hospitality offerings across popular tourist destinations such as Varanasi, Ayodhya, Prayagraj, and Agra. The state is set to add approximately 80,000 new accommodation units through the development of hotels, resorts, and homestays, catering to the diverse needs of travelers.
One notable aspect of Uttar Pradesh’s strategy is the emphasis on preserving and leveraging heritage properties like forts and palaces. These historical gems are being made available for private sector development, with incentives provided to transform them into heritage hotels, enriching the tourism experience.
Moreover, the state is actively promoting rural tourism, with a focus on farm stays that offer authentic experiences infused with local culture, cuisine, and folklore. An agreement with rural homestay providers underscores the government’s commitment to nurturing grassroots tourism initiatives, fostering economic growth in rural areas.
Minister Jaiveer Singh underscored the state’s support for unique countryside farm stays, highlighting subsidies offered under the Tourism Policy 2022 to incentivize their establishment. Selected villages are being transformed into rural tourism hubs, creating avenues for cultural exchange and economic empowerment.
In addition to enhancing accommodation options, Uttar Pradesh is diversifying its tourism portfolio to include wellness centers and adventure tourism activities. With over 500 tourism and infrastructure projects underway in key destinations, the sector is poised to generate over 250,000 new job opportunities, providing a significant boost to employment.
Religious tourism, particularly in Ayodhya following the consecration of the Lord Ram temple, has witnessed a surge in interest. The state government projects an annual tourism revenue of Rs 55,000 crore in the initial years, reflecting the immense potential of Uttar Pradesh as a premier destination for travelers, both domestic and international.
As Uttar Pradesh charts a course towards becoming a hub of hospitality and tourism excellence, these initiatives underscore a commitment to sustainable growth and the preservation of cultural heritage, promising an enriching experience for visitors from around the globe.
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