Uttar Pradesh is sharpening its focus on tourism-led job creation as part of its broader USD 1 trillion economy vision, with the aim to increase total tourism-led employment to 5% by 2024, in a phased manner, which is currently at around 1.4%. The sector is expected to play a much larger role in employment over the next two decades. Officials say the strategy hinges on expanding tourism...

Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department has initiated the development of two prominent spiritual sites in Prayagraj district, to strengthen the religious tourism. The Falahiri Baba Temple in Karchana and the Durga Temple at Devi Dham Pachdeva in Soraon tehsil will be developed and beautified with an investment of over INR 3.46 crore, aimed at enhancing infrastructure and providing improved facilities...

The project will be implemented through a Public Private Partnership model to ensure professional management and quality facilities, while overall oversight will remain with the government.

This initiative aims to further enhance the overall experience of pilgrims, tourists and students.

In 2024, Meerut recorded 37.78 lakh visitors, while between January and June 2025, the number reached 10.6 lakh, reflecting the growing interest in religious and cultural tourism in the region.

“This initiative is aligned with the state’s broader goal of achieving a one trillion dollar economy,” said Jaiveer Singh, Tourism and Culture Minister.

The institute will soon commence training classes for guides based in Varanasi and Kannauj.