Tuesday, August 6, 2024
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In an exclusive interview with Travel And Tour World, Sandeep Arora, Director of Brightsun Travel, India, shared his insights on the India Union Budget’s focus on boosting spiritual tourism. Arora highlighted the budget’s emphasis on developing infrastructure and promoting lesser-known spiritual destinations across Indian states.
Travel And Tour World: How does the 2024 Union Budget aim to boost spiritual tourism in India, and which states are receiving special focus?
Sandeep Arora: The 2024 Union Budget is set to significantly enhance spiritual tourism in India, focusing specially on Bihar and Odisha. In Bihar, key spiritual and historical sites which include Bodh Gaya, Rajgir and Nalanda are set to undergo major development. Bodh Gaya, renowned for its connection to Lord Buddha will receive dedicated enhancements to solidify its standing as a major pilgrimage site. Rajgir celebrated for its Jain temples and sacred hot springs, will see developments aimed at promoting religious and wellness tourism. Additionally, efforts will be made to revitalise Nalanda to its former glory. Inspired by the successful Kashi Vishwanath Temple Corridor project, the Vishnu Path and Mahabodhi Temple Corridors are also set for development to boost their appeal to Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain visitors. In Odisha, the focus is on promoting religious and beach tourism, tapping into the state’s rich cultural heritage and scenic coastline.
Travel And Tour World: What are the key religious and historical sites in Bihar and Odisha that will benefit from the new initiatives in the 2024 Budget?
Sandeep Arora: Bodh Gaya, Rajgir and Nalanda, plus the Vishnu Path and Mahabodhi Temple Corridors in Bihar. Religious sites in Odisha that are likely to benefit from the new initiatives include Jagannath Temple in Puri, Konark Sun Temple and Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar.
Travel And Tour World: How will the improvement of infrastructure and connectivity in offbeat destinations enhance tourism in India according to the 2024 Budget?
Sandeep Arora: The 2024 Union Budget focuses on enhancing infrastructure and connectivity in offbeat destinations to boost tourism in India. By improving accessibility, the government aims to diversify tourist offerings, alleviate pressure on popular sites, and promote sustainable tourism. Investments in highways, expressways, and rail networks aim to connect remote areas to major cities, making travel easier for tourists. The Regional Connectivity Scheme (UDAN) and new helicopter services will improve access to remote and hilly destinations.
The 2024 budget allocates funds for developing accommodations, visitor centres, and amenities to cater to diverse tourist needs. Expanding Wi-Fi and digital payment systems will enhance connectivity and convenience for travellers. Conservation projects and community involvement are prioritised to protect natural habitats and preserve cultural heritage, promoting ecotourism.
Additionally, activities like trekking and wellness retreats attract niche markets, enhancing adventure and wellness tourism. By focusing on sustainable and responsible tourism, the budget seeks to drive economic growth and position India as a more attractive destination for both domestic and international visitors.
Travel And Tour World: What potential does Odisha hold for religious and beach tourism, and how is the 2024 Budget addressing this?
Sandeep Arora: Odisha, with its rich cultural heritage and stunning coastline, holds significant potential for religious and beach tourism, which the 2024 Union Budget aims to harness. The state is home to the revered Jagannath Temple in Puri, a key Hindu pilgrimage site and part of the Char Dham Yatra, drawing millions of devotees annually.
The budget has allocated funds to improve infrastructure around the temple, including better roads, enhanced facilities for pilgrims, and improved crowd management systems. The Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site is also receiving attention. The budget emphasises on conservation efforts and promoting the site as a major attraction for both domestic and international tourists. Similarly, the Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar, is set to benefit from improved accessibility and preservation efforts.
Odisha’s extensive coastline, featuring pristine beaches like Puri Beach, Chandrabhaga Beach, and Gopalpur Beach, offers immense potential for beach tourism. The budget plans to promote beach tourism by developing infrastructure such as resorts, restaurants, and recreational facilities to attract more visitors. Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest coastal lagoon and a biodiversity hotspot, is also a focus, with initiatives to promote eco-friendly tourism and preserve the lake’s natural habitat.
Travel And Tour World: In what ways is the 2024 Union Budget expected to impact the local economy in regions with new tourism initiatives?
Sandeep Arora: The 2024 Union Budget will significantly impact local economies in regions with new tourism initiatives by driving economic growth and community development. Enhanced tourism infrastructure, including improved roads, railways, and airports, will boost accessibility, benefiting both tourists and local residents. The development of hotels, resorts, and visitor centres will create direct employment opportunities in construction, hospitality, and services, while also stimulating indirect jobs in sectors like agriculture and retail. Increased tourist demand will bolster local businesses, from shops and eateries to artisans selling regional crafts, thus supporting local economies. Private sector investment in tourism infrastructure and public-private partnerships will further stimulate growth.
