The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India successfully concluded the third G20 Tourism Working Group meeting from May 22nd to 24th, 2023 in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting focused on various key deliverables and priorities related to tourism.
During the meeting, all G20 members were requested to submit their suggestions in writing by May 26th, 2023. These suggestions will form part of the final draft of the roadmap, which will be prepared in consultation with the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). The roadmap will be presented at the 4th Tourism Working Group Meeting in Goa in June, followed by the tourism declaration at the Ministerial Meet.
The meeting witnessed high-quality discussions from national and international delegates and experts. Several successful side events were organized, including a side event on “Film Tourism for Economic Growth and Cultural Preservation.” The event focused on strategies to promote film tourism, with discussions on the potential of Jammu and Kashmir as a film tourism destination and the impact of films on promoting destinations.
A draft ‘National Strategy on Film Tourism’ was unveiled during the event, providing a roadmap for harnessing the role of films in promoting tourist destinations. Panel discussions and presentations by representatives from G20 member countries and international organizations highlighted the economic benefits and global promotion of film tourism.
In addition to the main meeting, two side events were organized on the second day. The first event focused on promoting “Incredible India through Film Tourism,” and a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Ministry of Tourism and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry for the promotion and development of film tourism in India.
The second side event centered around “Ecotourism as a Vehicle to Achieve Sustainable Development Goals.” It included discussions on various challenges and opportunities for developing ecotourism in India, and a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Ministry of Tourism and the Confederation of Indian Industry for the promotion and development of ecotourism.
Throughout the meeting, the delegates had the opportunity to experience the local attractions and culture of Srinagar, including a Shikara ride on Dal Lake, visits to Mughal Gardens, Pari Mahal, and Polo View Market. They also visited the Art and Craft Bazaar, where they witnessed local handicrafts and had hands-on experiences with DIY activities. The meeting concluded with a cultural evening and dinner for all the delegates, where they enjoyed various music and dance performances showcasing the cultural richness of the region. The delegates also had the chance to savor Kashmiri cuisine, including the famous Kashmiri Wazwan.
Overall, the 3rd G20 Tourism Working Group meeting in Srinagar focused on advancing the priorities of Green Tourism, Digitalization, Skills, Tourism MSMEs, and Destination. It aimed to accelerate the transition of the tourism sector and achieve the targets for the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
