Saurabh Gupta | 24 Nov, 2011
Union Minister for Tourism, Subodh Kant Sahai Wednesday asked industry to help the government in achieving the set target of about 25 million new jobs in the sector during the 12th Plan period.

Speaking at 'India Heritage Tourism Conclave 2011' organised by PHD Chamber in New Delhi, the minister said, "Tourism sector has the maximum potential to generate employment opportunity. We hope to generate 25 million jobs in the sector during the 12th Plan period. But the government can not succeed in its mission without help from the industry."

"The industry should sensitize the states about the potentiality of the sector and approach them with investment proposals to give shape to the government's vision," Sahai added.

As per the Planning Commission estimate, an investment of Rs 10 lakh in tourism sector can create almost 80,000 employment. The industry should approach state governments with road-maps to tap the immense potential of the tourism sector, Sahai said.

Urging the industry for public-private participation in creating jobs, the Minister said employing local people in the hospitality industry around heritage sites will not only address the acute shortage of manpower in the industry, but also give those people a sense of belonging and prevent massive migration to cities.

Reiterating the Ministry's slogan of Atithi Devo Bhava (Guests are akin to Gods), Sahai said, "Creating a friendly and hygienic atmosphere for tourists is of utmost importance. Otherwise, it will bring bad publicity to the country." He stressed on the need of community participation to create a great tourist-friendly atmosphere.

"The tourism sector can provide a great fillip for maintaining 8-10 percent growth of the economy. There have been efforts at the individual level to attain this. What we need now is a concerted effort from all the stakeholders, including the government, industry and public to increase the momentum," said Salil Bhandari, President, PHD Chamber.

Navneet Dhawan, Co-Chairman of PHD Chamber’s tourism committee, stressed on the importance of public-private participation in preserving India’s heritage structures.

"Parents should sensitize and encourage their children in the preservation efforts since they will be the future brand ambassadors of our heritage," he said.