Amity University Noida hosts guest lecture on World Tourism Day 2024

On World Tourism Day 2024, Amity University Noida hosted a guest lecture by Pushpraj Singh, Maharaja of Rewa, who discussed the theme of 'Peaceful Tourism.' 

Addressing the students, Pushpraj Singh, Maharaja of Rewa & Chairman HHR Group of Hotels, averred, “Tourism is essential for spreading peace and harmony in the society. When one is calm, composed and peaceful, they impress others and make them also peaceful. Tourism brings us close to nature and the fresh air and environment energise our bodies and minds. Madhya Pradesh is one of major tourist attractions in the world, known for its wildlife sanctuaries and tigers. Wildlife not only includes animals but also includes rare plants and trees which have medicinal properties and are used to cure many diseases.”

The event included a panel discussion on 'Peaceful Tourism Practices,' featuring experts who underscored the connection between travel and peace.

Balvinder Shukla, Vice Chancellor Amity University Uttar Pradesh, stated, “Maharaja Shri Pushpraj Singh ji has been instrumental in the development of the tourism industry of India and has done commendable work to bring recognition to the country’s leading tourist destinations. The country needs such humble people who work for the benefit of the society and spread peace and solidarity. The role of tourism is very important in the Prime Minister's mission of self-reliant India. Today, Indian tourism is among the top five tourism industries in the world and particularly Madhya Pradesh, which is culturally, historically and spiritually rich attracts a large number of tourists.”

Deliberating upon 'Peaceful Tourism Practices' during a Panel Discussion, G G Saxena, Senior Vice President, Total Synergy Consulting Private Limited, said, “People are travelling to religious places and serene places in search of peace therefore there is a strong synergy between peace and tourism. “

Kaynat Kazi, Award-winning Solo Woman Traveller, Author, & Vlogger said that tourism needs to be experienced and felt from the heart. India’s art, culture and architecture is unique, and every region has its own local cuisine, therefore we must take pride in Indian tourism and promote it in the world.”

Dr (Chef) Rajeev Goyal, President, India Food Tourism Organisation (IFTO), said that we learn to take decisions by travelling to different places since travel plan involves a lot of decisions which need to be made, for e.g., where to travel, where to stay, how to reach the destination, etc. Travelling enriches us with a lot of knowledge and experience therefore it is important to travel and experience new places.”

Vinod Zutshi, Former Secretary Tourism, Ministry of Tourism, Govt, of India said that tourism is the generator of peace and enhances cross-cultural understanding, serving as a bridge between difference cultures and perspectives. It propels economic growth, environment sustainability and conservation and helps in promoting unity in diversity.”