News

Odisha Tourism Industry Seeks Dynamic Policy Changes For Unstoppable Growth

Odisha’s travel and hospitality sector has called for an immediate revision of the state’s tourism policy, implemented in 2022, citing its ineffectiveness in developing tourism infrastructure and failing to attract both domestic and international visitors. In a feedback report submitted to the Chief Minister on behalf of the industry, the Hotel & Restaurant Association of Odisha (HRAO) emphasized the need for urgent amendments to the 2022 tourism policy. The report highlights that, despite Odisha’s immense potential for tourism growth, the state has struggled to achieve the prominence of destinations like Goa, Rajasthan, Kerala, and Madhya Pradesh. The Association stressed that prioritizing tourism infrastructure is essential for driving the sector’s development and boosting its visibility. Despite the government creating land banks and distributing them through auctions, these plots are often acquired at high premiums by major real estate developers to construct shopping malls and residential complexes. Acknowledging the significant lack of quality accommodations at key tourist destinations, the Hotel & Restaurant Association of Odisha (HRAO) has proposed that land be allocated specifically to select hoteliers at IPR rates, coupled with streamlined approvals and capital investment subsidies from the government. HRAO has also recommended leasing out the state-run ‘Panthanivas’ properties to private hoteliers under a public-private partnership (PPP) model. This initiative aims to enhance standards, improve efficiency, and indirectly boost tourism in those areas. Additionally, HRAO suggests forming a State Tourism Development Board, chaired by the Deputy Chief Minister, who also serves as the Tourism Minister. The board would include members from the private sector, fostering collaboration between the government and industry stakeholders to drive effective tourism development. HRAO has also urged the government to prioritize the development of Chilika Lake as a premier ecotourism destination. Describing Chilika Lake as a “tourism goldmine,” the association emphasized the need for the state government to focus on enhancing eco-tourism initiatives and building the necessary infrastructure to promote the region effectively. The state needs top-tier branding and marketing strategies, according to the association. Comprehensive campaigns across electronic, print, and social media platforms are essential to draw both domestic and international tourists while also encouraging investors to explore opportunities in the tourism sector.

Read more

Uttar Pradesh Launches “Dekho Apna Desh – People’s Choice 2024” Campaign

Uttar Pradesh, one of India’s most vibrant states, has launched a dynamic new campaign aimed at promoting its key religious, cultural, historical, and natural landmarks. The “Dekho Apna Desh – People’s Choice 2024” campaign, spearheaded by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, is designed to engage the public in identifying the best tourist destinations across the state. Running until November 25, 2024, this campaign invites citizens, students, youth tourism clubs, teachers, officials, and elected representatives to vote for their favorite sites and share their travel experiences. Promoting Uttar Pradesh’s Rich Heritage and Tourism Potential The initiative, launched in Ayodhya, invites the people of Uttar Pradesh to participate in voting for their favorite tourist spots, helping to shape the future of tourism in the state. The campaign encourages participants to visit designated tourist destinations, share selfies, and upload them via QR codes at various points. Exceptional contributors will be rewarded with exciting prizes, further incentivizing community participation. In his speech at the campaign’s launch, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized the growing global significance of Uttar Pradesh as a prime tourist destination. “Last year, Uttar Pradesh welcomed over 480 million tourists—almost double the state’s population. The land of Lord Ram, Krishna, and Buddha continues to attract the highest number of domestic tourists in the country. Our goal is to increase international tourism by showcasing the state’s vast cultural, historical, and religious heritage.” The Chief Minister further stated that ongoing improvements in infrastructure, including better facilities at tourist spots, roadside hotels, wedding venues, eateries, and enhanced connectivity, are aimed at enhancing the tourist experience. The state government is committed to positioning Uttar Pradesh as a global tourism hub, with the “Dekho Apna Desh – People’s Choice 2024” campaign acting as a stepping stone in achieving this ambitious goal. Transforming Tourism with Citizen-Driven Insights The key to success for this campaign lies in its citizen-driven approach. As participants contribute their ideas and vote for the best destinations, the government of Uttar Pradesh is gathering crucial data to enhance tourism experiences. By focusing on both existing and emerging destinations, the state is laying the foundation for long-term growth in its tourism sector. The valuable feedback received will help the government to identify areas in need of improvement, allowing for better planning and more effective tourism strategies. Uttar Pradesh’s tourism strategy also includes promoting its local heritage, diverse culture, and natural beauty. By engaging the public through this campaign, the state aims to strengthen its position on the global tourism map, offering an enriching experience for tourists from all over the world. Looking Ahead The “Dekho Apna Desh – People’s Choice 2024” campaign will continue to run until November 25, 2024, with an aim to capture the hearts of millions of participants. Uttar Pradesh is already seeing the benefits of citizen engagement in shaping the future of tourism, and the campaign is expected to result in greater recognition for the state’s diverse tourism assets. As Uttar Pradesh works toward positioning itself as a world-class tourist destination, the contributions from citizens, influencers, and tourism stakeholders will play a critical role in driving the state’s success on the global stage. This campaign is not just about voting; it’s about fostering a shared sense of pride and ownership among Uttar Pradesh’s people, ensuring the state’s tourism industry continues to thrive for generations to come.

Read more

Delhi-Kashmir direct trains to start from January 2025

Very soon, you will be able to reach Kashmir from Delhi in direct trains. As per the reports, trains on this route will be operational from January 2025. This will also mark the completion of the ambitious Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project. Referring to this, officials have confirmed that most of the project work is finished, with the remaining tasks, including Tunnel T-33 and the Reasi-Katra section, expected to be completed by December 2024. Also, as the direct train is all set to run from New Delhi and Baramulla in January 2025, which Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate, reportedly on January 26, 2025, will mark the start of decades long dream of connecting northern Kashmir to the country's vast rail network. With 38 tunnels totalling 119 km, including India's biggest transportation tunnel, T-49, which is 12.75 km long, the USBRL project is an engineering marvel. The project also features 927 bridges, including the famous Chenab Bridge, the highest arch railway bridge in the world. Standing 359 m above the riverbed, the bridge surpasses the Eiffel Tower in height by 35 m. Designed with cutting-edge materials to endure wind speeds of 260 km/h and the strongest earthquakes, it highlights India’s engineering prowess. The 63-km final stretch, connecting Sangaldan to Katra, is undergoing final safety inspections. During a recent visit, Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu expressed optimism that the railway would transform connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir, promoting global competitiveness and economic prosperity. The project's preparedness is further advanced by the Reasi-Katra phase, which includes four stations along a 17-km length, being completed by December. This monumental project has achieved several milestones over the years: the Baramulla-Qazigund section in 2009, Qazigund-Banihal in 2013, Udhampur-Katra in 2014, and the Banihal-Sangaldan service inaugurated in February 2024. Upon completion, the Delhi-Baramulla train will span approximately 700 km, offering travellers a seamless journey through India’s diverse landscapes, from the plains of Delhi to the snow-capped peaks of Kashmir.

Read more

You can now book monument tickets for sightseeing through Delhi Metro’s new app

Good news for explorers and history lovers! The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) in collaboration with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has come up with a great plan to allow easy sightseeing in Delhi for visitors. The new collaboration is of a new Delhi Metro app that allows visitors to book tickets for ASI-managed monuments directly through DMRC's Momentum 2.0 mobile app. A look at some of the prime features of the app: Monuments covered: Visitors can book tickets for iconic landmarks such as Humayun's Tomb, Lal Quila (Red Fort), Qutub Minar and Purana Qila are part of this initiative. Unified Ticketing System: The new QR-based ticketing system lets visitors book metro and monument tickets together in a single transaction. Historical Signages: Informative boards with historical facts will be placed at select metro stations, providing tourists with insights into Delhi's rich heritage. Cultural Promotion: DMRC and ASI will host public events and use digital platforms to raise awareness of Delhi’s cultural significance. It’s an user-friendly feature designed to enhance the travel experience, making it easier for both locals and international tourists to explore Delhi’s historical wonders. Benefits: With this integrated system, visitors can plan their trips more conveniently by booking both metro and monument tickets in one go. This initiative not only simplifies travel but also highlights Delhi’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage, offering a seamless journey through the city’s historical treasures. Special Arrangements for IITF 2024: Along with the monument ticketing feature, DMRC has made visiting the India International Trade Fair (IITF) 2024 easier. Tickets for the event at the Bharat Mandapam Complex can now be booked online through the Delhi Sarathi app starting November 11. Golf cart facility: The addition of QR-coded tickets and 8-seater golf carts for navigating the event venue ensures a comfortable experience, particularly for families, the elderly, and those with mobility challenges. Educating commuters about heritage: This initiative not only simplifies access to monuments but also educates commuters about their historical significance. The placement of ASI boards at metro stations encourages a deeper understanding of Delhi's cultural legacy. A forward-thinking step: The DMRC-ASI partnership is a forward-thinking approach to promoting cultural tourism in Delhi. By combining convenience with heritage education, it offers an enhanced travel experience while making the city's historical sites more accessible to all. This initiative reflects a vision to merge modern convenience with the celebration of Delhi's rich history, making the city’s cultural treasures more enjoyable and reachable for everyone.

Read more

Bahrain Attracts Cruise Travel to Boost Economy in Tourism Industry

Bahrain has officially launched the 2024-2025 cruise season with the arrival of the first cruise ship at Khalifa Bin Salman Port (KBSP). This marks a significant milestone for the kingdom’s thriving tourism sector, setting the stage for a season packed with economic and cultural growth. Operated by APM Terminals, the port rolled out a grand welcome for international cruise visitors, showcasing Bahrain’s legendary hospitality and warmth. Strategic Focus on Tourism Growth The 2024-2025 cruise season underscores Bahrain’s commitment to enhancing its position as a premier destination for global cruise tourism. The state-of-the-art terminal at KBSP is designed to accommodate the world’s largest and most advanced cruise ships, ensuring seamless passenger handling and unparalleled amenities. With its strategic location and robust operational capabilities, the port is expected to generate increased economic activity and foster collaborations across Bahrain’s travel and hospitality sectors. MSC Euribia: A Sustainability Icon A highlight of the season is the arrival of MSC Euribia, one of the most environmentally advanced cruise vessels globally. The ship features cutting-edge energy-efficient technologies and systems that significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This aligns with Bahrain’s national sustainability goals and APM Terminals’ global decarbonization strategy, demonstrating a shared commitment to eco-conscious practices. APM Terminals’ Leadership in Maritime Operations Matthew Luckhurst, Managing Director of APM Terminals Bahrain, expressed his enthusiasm for the new cruise season. “We are delighted to kick off the 2024-2025 cruise season at Khalifa Bin Salman Port today, continuing to support Bahrain’s economic, trade, and tourism goals,” he said. Luckhurst emphasized APM Terminals’ dedication to delivering exceptional service while promoting sustainable growth, reinforcing Bahrain’s vision of becoming a global hub for tourism and trade. Economic Impact and Cultural Promotion The 2024-2025 cruise season is poised to drive significant economic activity, benefiting Bahrain’s travel and hospitality sectors. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the kingdom’s rich heritage, vibrant culture, and unique attractions. Collaborations across the tourism ecosystem will further enhance Bahrain’s appeal as an international travel destination. A Thriving Season Ahead As the cruise season progresses, Bahrain is set to welcome a diverse range of international visitors, contributing to its economic and cultural growth. The kingdom’s focus on sustainability, collaboration, and innovation ensures a promising future for its cruise tourism sector.

Read more

Emirates Revolutionizes Air Travel Experience with Q3 Campaign

Emirates’ Q3 campaign highlighted fleet upgrades, luxury enhancements, and innovation, showcasing its commitment to superior customer experiences and brand values. Emirates’ advertising campaign for the third quarter of 2024 (July 1 to September 30) highlighted its unwavering commitment to enhancing the customer experience by focusing on cutting-edge fleet upgrades and technological innovation. The campaign aimed to boost brand awareness and showcased major refurbishment initiatives for the Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 fleets, which included introducing premium economy seating, enhanced business class configurations, and upgraded interiors across all classes. These efforts underline Emirates’ dedication to delivering a superior travel experience, according to a report by GlobalData, a prominent data and analytics company. GlobalData’s latest publication, “Decoding Emirates’ YouTube Advertising Strategy,” examines the key themes and values presented in the airline’s top 10 YouTube advertisements. Key elements such as Innovation, Luxury, Quality, Reliability, Prestige, and Safety were central to Emirates’ messaging. Highlights of Emirates’ Advertisement Focus Areas Fleet Modernization and Refurbishment: The campaign prominently featured Emirates’ extensive fleet refurbishment program, which covered 110 Airbus A380s and 81 Boeing 777s. These upgrades showcased new premium economy seating and overall enhancements to passenger comfort, reinforcing the airline’s commitment to providing a world-class travel experience. Premium Cabin Enhancements: The advertisements emphasized luxurious upgrades across all cabin classes, including leather seats, improved business class configurations (1-2-1 layout), and the addition of premium economy seating. These features positioned Emirates as a leader in offering a refined and comfortable travel experience. Focus on Personalized Customer Service: One standout advertisement featured Rachida, a 101-year-old frequent flyer, symbolizing Emirates’ dedication to catering to passengers of all ages. This narrative demonstrated the airline’s emphasis on personalized care and exceptional service. Corporate Social Responsibility Initiatives: An advertisement spotlighting the Emirates Airline Foundation and a specially designed A380 livery celebrated the airline’s commitment to humanitarian efforts. The inclusion of children’s artwork on the aircraft fostered a strong emotional connection, highlighting the brand’s compassionate values and social responsibility. Technological Innovation: Another ad showcased Emirates’ use of the FlightPulse app, a tool that improves safety, fuel efficiency, and pilot training. By embracing advanced technology, the airline positioned itself as an industry innovator, promoting its vision of safer and more efficient operations, aligned with its “Fly Better” slogan. This comprehensive advertising approach not only bolstered Emirates’ brand image but also reinforced its reputation as a leader in luxury, innovation, and customer-centric service in the aviation industry.

Read more