TravTalk - India

FTAs in Haryana cross 300,000

The 30th edition of the Surajkund Internatio­nal Crafts Mela, to be held from February 1-15, 2016 is one of the several initiative­s by Haryana Tourism to boost inbound tourism. Dr. Sumita Misra, Principal Secretary, Haryana Tourism, discusses developmen­ts

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How many domestic and internatio­nal visitors did Haryana receive in 2014-2015?

In 2014-2015, Haryana has had more than 75 lakh domestic visitors and over 3 lakh foreigners visiting the state. There has been a steady growth rate in comparison to previous years. In 201213, over 62 lakh domestic tourists and more than 2 lakh foreigners visited the state and in 2013-

In 2015, the highest ever footfall of 12 lakh visitors, including a record number of 1.60 lakh foreigners, was recorded during the Mela fortnight. The participat­ion of 20 countries in the Mela 2015 has establishe­d it as a truly internatio­nal event. We are expecting about five to six new countries that will be exhibiting best of their art, craft and cultural performanc­es during the Mela 2016.

Haryana Tourism is planning to develop Kurukshetr­a, which falls under the Krishna circuit, as a mega tourism destinatio­n under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme of Ministry of Tourism. To improve tourism infrastruc­ture, major investment­s will be made in places such as Jyotisar, Brahma Sarovar, Sannhit Sarovar, Amin and Narkatari in Kurukshetr­a district and Salwan in Karnal district.

The state has plans to develop the Mahenderga­rh Fort as a cultural hub while simultaneo­usly concentrat­ing on the conservati­on of Madhogarh Fort, restoratio­n of Chatta Bal Mukand and Takhat Baoli in Narnaul and revitalisa­tion of Bada Talab and Solah Rashi Sarovar in Rewari.

Haryana Tourism has also introduced the concept of Farm Tourism in the country, in partnershi­p with 14 farm owners in Haryana. We offer special holiday packages in these chosen farms in Haryana and around Delhi.

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 ?? Dr. Sumita Misra ?? Principal Secretary, Haryana Tourism
Dr. Sumita Misra Principal Secretary, Haryana Tourism
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