PARYATAN MITRA AND PARYATAN DIDI

TAG: GS-: ECONOMY

CONTEXT: Recently, on World Tourism Day, the Ministry of Tourism launched initiatives called “Tourism Mitra” and “Tourism Didi”,

EXPLANATION:

About Paryatan Mitra & Paryatan Didi:

• Paryatan Mitra and Paryatan Didi are two initiatives launched by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, on World Tourism Day, September 27, 2024.

• Aim: To empower locals in key tourist destinations as ambassadors, enhancing tourist experiences while promoting employment and community engagement.
•  The 5Ps of Tourism – People, Place, Product, Planet, and Promotion. 

The program was piloted in six tourist destinations:

• • Orchha, Madhya Pradesh
  • Gandikota, Andhra Pradesh
  • Bodh Gaya, Bihar
  • Aizawl, Mizoram
  • Jodhpur, Rajasthan
  • Sri Vijaya Puram, Andaman & Nicobar Islands

The Ministry of Tourism has selected 50 tourism destinations across India for the implementation of Paryatan Mitra and Paryatan Didi.

Key features of this initiative:

• Empowering local communities: The initiatives focus on empowering local communities, especially women and youth, to serve as ambassadors and storytellers of their destinations.

• • Locals trained in hospitality, safety, sustainability, and local storytelling.

• Enhancing tourist experiences: By providing trained local guides, the initiatives aim to improve the tourist experience by offering personalized assistance, insights into local culture, and recommendations for attractions and activities.
• Promoting responsible tourism: Paryatan Mitra and Paryatan Didi promote responsible tourism practices, such as sustainability, environmental protection, and cultural sensitivity.

• • Training in digital literacyfor promoting tourism products globally.

• Creating employment opportunities: The initiatives provide employment opportunities for local people, contributing to the economic development of tourism destinations.
• Promoting local products and handicrafts: Paryatan Mitra and Paryatan Didi can help promote the sale of local products and handicrafts, supporting the livelihoods of local artisans and craftsmen.

• • Focus on women and youth for developing tourism experiences like heritage walks and food tours.

The initiatives are expected to have a significant impact on the tourism industry in India by enhancing the overall tourist experience and promoting responsible tourism practices.

Source:

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2059407