Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur called on Union Minister for Tourism K.J. Alphons at New Delhi, today and urged him to sanction three schemes of Rs. 300 crore of the State government to promote religious tourism circuit in the state, promote eco-adventure tourism to highlight the scenic and virgin tourism spots on world tourism map. He also invited Union Minister of State for Tourism to Himachal Pradesh and said that he himself will take him to the tourist destinations of the State. Shri K.J. Alphons whole heartedly accepted the invitation of the Chief Minister.The Union Minister of State for Tourism assured the Chief Minister that the Union Government will expend all possible support to this hill state for exploitation and expansion of its tourism potential. He expressed happiness that Himachal Pradesh was emerging as favorite tourist destination due to its calm and pollution free environment, its rich culture and moreover the hospitality of its people and because of Dev Bhoomi, its religious places were the centre of attraction and belief to the devotees.In the meeting, Minister of State for Tourism directed the Officers of his department to invite State officials to Delhi for giving presentation on expansion and potential of tourism in Himachal Pradesh.
Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur told the Union Minister of State for Tourism that Nature had bestowed Himachal Pradesh with grandeur and beauty and the state due to its diverse geographical conditions, attracts tourists throughout the year. He said that the focus should be on tourism in the state which was not given before, but now the state government had accorded top priority to the tourism sector and special emphasis was being given to strengthen infrastructure in virgin natural places. He said it was the endeavour of state government that domestic and foreign tourists spend more time here and recollect sweet memories.Shri Jai Ram Thakur said that Himachal Pradesh had immense potential for adventure tourism and adventure sports like mountaineering, biking, river rafting and para-gliding adding that state was considered as paradise for these adventure sports.He said that government was working prominently on exploitation of hidden employment potential in tourism sector.The Chief Minister said that Himachal Pradesh was also a major centre of religious tourism and religious tourism circuits will be developed here to provide devotees more facilities. Chief Minister also urged the Centre to provide funds generously for widespread publicity of tourism sites in the state.The Chief Minister honoured Union Minister of State for Tourism with Himachal Shawl and Cap.