A vision for growth and development

Known for its rich cultural heritage and historical charm, Rajasthan is moving towards a modern approach to tourism while preserving its authenticity. The state government’s vision involves developing infrastructure, promoting sustainable tourism and attracting domestic and international tourists. Through various initiatives and projects, the state ensures that it remains one of the top tourist destinations globally. In fact, its tourism strategy is multifaceted, focussing on modernising infrastructure, promoting sustainability and leveraging its rich cultural heritage.

The state is taking steps to blend tradition with innovation, making it a leading tourist destination while ensuring inclusive growth for local communities and providing investor-friendly policies. With new initiatives in place and a forward-thinking approach, Rajasthan’s tourism industry is poised for a prosperous future. In an exclusive interview with BW Hotelier, Vijaypal Singh, Commissioner of Tourism, Government of Rajasthan, shares details on initiatives to attract investors, upcoming tourism projects, role of local communities in preserving the state’s cultural identity and more...

How do you plan to blend modern experiences with Rajasthan’s rich heritage without compromising authenticity?
Rajasthan has maintained a delicate balance between modernisation and preserving its rich cultural and historical identity. The state’s approach involves introducing modern infrastructure and services such as better roadways, hospitality standards and tourist amenities, without altering the essence of historical sites and experiences. Projects like the Swadesh Darshan scheme aim to modernise facilities at religious and heritage sites while keeping their spiritual and cultural value intact. The state government’s commitment to heritage preservation is evident through the conservation efforts in places like Jodhpur’s walled city and the restoration of the Keshavrai Patan Temple in Bundi.

What initiatives is the state government implementing to attract domestic and international investors?
The state has launched several initiatives to make the tourism sector more investor-friendly. A key step is the introduction of a single window system which simplifies the approval process for tourism-related projects. This system allows for smooth business operations, ensuring that domestic and international investors face minimal bureaucratic hurdles. Additionally, the state has provided various tax exemptions and benefits under the Tourism Industry Status, encouraging businesses to invest in hotels, adventure tourism, ecotourism, and other tourism services.

The establishment of the Rajasthan Tourism Infrastructure and Capacity Building Fund with an allocation of `5,000 crore showcases the state’s focus on developing world-class infrastructure, which will help attract both international and domestic investors.

How do you envision leveraging technology, such as virtual reality or AI, to enhance the tourist experience and bring Rajasthan’s cultural treasures to life?
Rajasthan is exploring new technologies like virtual reality (VR) and artificial intelligence (AI) to enrich tourist experiences. Virtual tours of Rajasthan’s forts and palaces can provide global tourists with a glimpse of the state’s heritage before they even arrive. AI-powered guides can enhance the learning experience at historical sites, offering personalised tours and information in multiple languages. Such tech-enabled experiences would not only cater to tech-savvy travellers but also position Rajasthan as a forward-thinking tourist destination while preserving its rich history.

Please elaborate on specific initiatives designed to ensure safety, comfort and inclusivity for women travellers.
Rajasthan is actively promoting women-friendly tourism by focussing on safety and inclusivity. The state has established the Tourism Assistance Force which ensures the security and comfort of tourists, including women. Additionally, the government is working on creating more women-centric tourist facilities, such as female guides, women only tours and women-managed homestays, enhancing inclusivity. Efforts to provide safer and well-lit transportation services, particularly in popular tourist destinations, further support Rajasthan’s aim to make the state a preferred destination for women travellers.

Are there any upcoming tourism projects that are set to launch soon and how do these align with Rajasthan’s goal of sustainable tourism development?
Yes, Rajasthan has several new tourism projects in the pipeline that focus on sustainability. The promotion of eco-tourism and adventure tourism is part of this vision. Sites like Sambhar Lake and Khichan Conservation Reserve are being developed as eco-tourism hubs, highlighting the state’s commitment to environmental conservation. The government’s initiatives to minimise the environmental impact of tourism by promoting eco-friendly infrastructure align with its broader goal of sustainable tourism development. Adventure tourism sites are also being identified and developed, catering to modern travellers looking for unique and exciting experiences while preserving the state’s natural beauty.

With the increasing trend of ‘workcations,’ how is Rajasthan positioning itself as a destination for remote workers looking for inspiring places to live and work? 
Rajasthan’s focus on upgrading its tourism infrastructure and promoting eco-friendly tourism can make it an ideal destination for remote workers. The state’s serene desert landscapes, historical cities and tranquil rural areas provide a perfect environment for people seeking workcations. The promotion of lesser-known destinations, combined with improved internet connectivity and better amenities, positions Rajasthan as an attractive option for digital nomads and remote workers.

What role do you think local communities play in preserving Rajasthan’s cultural identity, and how is Rajasthan Tourism engaging them in the state’s tourism strategies?
Local communities are vital to preserving the state's cultural identity. The state government is working to involve local communities in various tourism projects, ensuring that they benefit from the industry's growth. The promotion of rural tourism, where tourists can experience traditional Rajasthani life, is one such initiative that directly involves local people. Through such projects, Rajasthan aims to empower local communities, allowing them to showcase their culture, arts, crafts, and traditions while boosting the local economy.

How is the state preparing to tap into the growing MICE segment, and what unique advantages does it offer for MICE tourism?
Rajasthan has a natural advantage in the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sector due to its magnificent palaces, forts, and luxury hotels that serve as perfect venues for high-profile events. The state's iconic settings combined with modern amenities make it a favoured destination for corporate events and international conferences.