Our Real Heritage for Sustainable Future, says HP Governor
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PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) organized its flagship event – 11th International Heritage Tourism Conclave with the theme ‘Heritage as a key driver of Sustainability’ on 22 April 2022 at WelcomHeritage Elysium Resort & Spa, Shimla.
Building on the previous 10 editions, the Conclave deliberated on how tourism and culture sectors can work together more collaboratively and increase public-private partnerships to ensure the protection of Cultural and Natural Heritage while extending benefits to local communities.
Inaugurating the Conclave, Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, Governor, Government of Himachal Pradesh, said, “Himachal Pradesh is a rightly chosen destination for heritage conclave. He mentioned that he has himself explored some scenic and picturesque destinations in the state and said that every place he visited has potential to be the heritage site. He said heritage does not exist only in buildings, but also rivers, lakes, forests, temples and culture.
He further added, “For promoting tourism in the state, the idea of bird festival should be started in Himachal Pradesh which will invite bird watchers, bird photographers and bird lovers not only from India but worldwide. To solve the problem of rough terrain and connectivity, sustainable infrastructure development is an important element. Not only sustainable infrastructure but also environment friendly practices and activities are required to support sustainable tourism. We must preserve our environment, our real heritage for sustainable future.”
In his presidential address, Pradeep Multani, President, PHDCCI, said, “PHDCCI stands committed towards strengthening the Tourism sector in India, especially Heritage Tourism. The idea of Heritage Tourism Conclave was conceived in the year 2011. With our collective efforts and your constant support, we continued the series successfully, year after year. Past 10 Heritage Tourism Conclaves held in different parts of the country speak volumes about our commitment to boost the sector.”
PHDCCI and its Knowledge Partner – ORG India jointly released a Knowledge Report titled ‘Heritage as a key driver of Sustainability’. The report gives a holistic view on heritage tourism across the world and in the country. The report provides ample scope and opportunities towards preservation of world’s cultural and natural heritage.
Dhian Chand, Managing Director, Kufri Hotels, said, “Tourism creates immense opportunities for inclusive growth and sustainable development through job creation, regeneration of rural and urban areas and appreciation and protection of natural and cultural heritage. Heritage Tourism in India is a real treasure as there are numerous cultural, historical and natural resources. Some cities have become famous due to the presence of these heritage sites.”
Rajan Sehgal, Co-Chair – Tourism & Hospitality Committee, PHDCCI, said, “A great deal of tourism relies on places with natural, indigenous and historic significance which tourism products are based. In order to respect the cultural significance of the destination, people involve in tourism industry need to be sensitive to cultural groups who have a special interest in them and they need to be directly involve in the planning and promotion of the destination.”