Tourism minister Prahlad Singh takes on independent responsibilities
In a recent address, Prahlad Singh Patel, the Minister of State (Independent Charge) for the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, outlined his ambitious plans to promote tourism in the country in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of 'New India'.
Patel emphasised the importance of proper branding and promotion of India's rich cultural diversity, which he believes is a major draw for tourists from around the world. He stated that works done in the last five years will be taken forward at a much greater pace and in a time-bound manner.
To achieve this, Patel has launched a multipronged strategy focused on inclusivity, industry engagement, policy facilitation, and cultural promotion. One of the key initiatives is the promotion of inclusive tourism, with plans to showcase India's growing inclusive tourism sector at events like the IGLTA Foundation LGBTQ+ Travel Symposium 2025.
The minister has also engaged with tourism trade bodies such as the Outbound Tour Operators Association of India (OTOAI) to address key outbound tourism issues, such as taxation policies impacting international travel. This collaboration aims to boost tourism flows and international partnerships essential to fulfilling the Prime Minister's vision of a dynamic, globally connected 'New India'.
Patel's involvement in key cultural and commemorative events linked to the tourism and cultural heritage sectors further bolsters efforts to preserve and promote India's rich cultural history as part of its tourism identity.
In addition to his focus on the tourism sector, Patel has expressed interests in a wide range of social and cultural activities, including the preservation of Indian culture, development of rural areas, farmers' welfare, and promotion of sports.
Prior to his appointment as the Minister of State for Tourism, Patel was a member of several Parliamentary Committees in the 16th Lok Sabha. His commitment to his constituency, Damoh Lok Sabha Constituency in Madhya Pradesh, has been evident throughout his career.
With his extensive experience and passion for India's cultural heritage, Patel is well-positioned to lead the Ministry of Tourism in its efforts to promote India as a vibrant, inclusive, and globally competitive tourist destination, contributing significantly to the vision of 'New India'.
- Engaging with tourism trade bodies such as the Outbound Tour Operators Association of India (OTOAI), Minister Patel intends to address issues related to taxation policies impacting international travel, an integral part of his policies and legislation regarding tourism.
- As part of his multipronged strategy, Patel is planning to showcase India's growing inclusive tourism sector at events like the IGLTA Foundation LGBTQ+ Travel Symposium 2025, a move that directly aligns with his focus on politics and general news related to policy-and-legislation in the tourism sector.
