Governor Kavinder Gupta today released the poster of the 'Chalo Himachal' campaign at Lok Bhavan during a courtesy call by members of the Govind Sagar Adventure & Water Sports Association. The initiative aims to promote adventure tourism and water sports activities across Himachal Pradesh, particularly in the State's major reservoirs and lakes.
Releasing the campaign poster, the Governor lauds the Association's efforts to promote Himachal Pradesh as a premier destination for adventure and eco-tourism. He said that tourism is one of the major pillars of the State's economy and initiatives showcasing Himachal's immense natural beauty and adventure potential would significantly contribute to attracting more visitors while creating employment and livelihood opportunities for local youth.
Shri Gupta commended the Association for its sustained efforts towards developing adventure tourism and said that all stakeholders should continue working collectively to strengthen the tourism sector and present Himachal Pradesh as a preferred destination for both domestic and international tourists.
Founder Member of the Association, Ishan Akhtar briefed the Governor about the 'Chalo Bilaspur, Chalo Himachal' campaign. He informed that throughout the year, the Association proposes to organize a series of adventure sports activities at Govind Sagar Lake and Kol Dam in Bilaspur district, Pong Dam in Kangra district and Chamera Dam in Chamba district.
He said that the proposed events include water sports championships, paragliding competitions, car and motorcycle racing championships, besides an international open water swimming championship covering nearly 50 kilometres from Bilaspur to Bhakra Dam. These activities, he said, are aimed at promoting Himachal Pradesh on the global tourism map while generating new opportunities for employment and local economic development.
On the occasion, the Governor was felicitated by Ishan Akhtar and Executive Member Bilal Ahmad Shah. Association President Saraj Akhtar, Hemraj Thakur, Advocate Imran Khan, Pawan Sharma and other office-bearers and members were also present on the occasion.