Uttar Pradesh government today inaugurated 'Lucknow Balloon Festival' as part of the state's first tourism day.
Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav said his government was working on improving tourism as it would generate more employment opportunities and also benefit the state economically.
The three-day festival was inaugurated by UP Principal Secretary Navneet Sehgal.
UP government had recently decided to celebrate February 14 as 'Tourism Day' from this year.
A 'Photo and Exhibition Festival' was also inaugurated today showcasing historical buildings and architectural remains of the state capital.
The state government was making efforts to associate more people with tourism activities through a slogan writing competition, Sehgal said.
The winners of 'Your Lucknow and Your Slogan' contest were given a free hot air balloon ride on the occasion.
He said such events attracted people of all ages thereby promoting tourism activities in the state.
