2nd edition of 'Paryatan Parv' to begin September 16 for promoting domestic tourism

The tourism ministry would organise the second edition of 'Paryatan Parv' from September 16 to September 27 across the country to promote tourist sites, especially among domestic travellers, a ministry official said on Friday.

Tourism secretary Rashmi Verma told reporters that the programme will be inaugurated by Home Minister Rajnath Singh on September 16 at the Rajpath lawns here.

"The programme is being organised with the objective of drawing focus on the benefits of tourism, showcasing the cultural diversity of the country and reinforcing the principle of 'tourism for all," Verma said.

She said 32 states and Union territories, along with different departments of the government, are collaborating with the ministry to organise 3,150 activities across India as part of the programme.

The event will be based on three main components - 'Dekho aapna desh' - encouraging domestic tourists to travel within India, 'Tourism for all' - promoting tourism across social classes, and 'Tourism and governance' - interactive sessions with stakeholders.

While celebrations will be held across the country with the help of state governments, at Rajpath in the national capital, activities will continue for the full 12 days. Eighteen theme-based pavilions will be set up by states. It would also have 54 food stalls, craft bazaar and exhibitions will be held there.

This time, the ministry has also included yoga in the events. Its demonstration, training, therapy would be held by Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga everyday on the Rajpath lawns.

In 2017-2018, 1.8 billion visits were recorded by domestic travellers to places of tourist interest, Verma said, adding it was a 18 per cent growth from the previous year.