TNR News Network
Dharamshala — As part of the Tourism Week celebrations themed “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” the Department of Tourism, Travel & Hospitality Management at Central Himachal Pradesh University organised a vibrant array of activities on the fifth day of the festival.
Under the visionary guidance of Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Sat Prakash Bansal and the Tourism Society, the day featured a Stakeholders Conclave, a National Tourism Quiz Competition, and an exciting Treasure Hunt. The Stakeholders Conclave brought together experts, officials, and students from tourism, environmental, and cultural sectors to discuss various dimensions of sustainable tourism.
The National Tourism Quiz saw enthusiastic participation from students across the country, showcasing their knowledge and passion for the field. The day concluded with a Treasure Hunt involving 25 teams and nearly 80 students, promoting teamwork, creativity, and cultural awareness among participants.
Chief Guest Prof. Sunil Thakur (Dean, Student Welfare) emphasized that tourism is not merely an economic activity but a powerful medium for cultural pride and social inclusion. He encouraged students to embrace the mantra of “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” and become environmentally conscious travelers and professionals.
Special Guest Mr. Vinay Dhiman (Tourism Development Officer) highlighted tourism’s role as a cultural and social nucleus, capable of curbing rural-to-urban migration and generating opportunities in both organized and unorganized sectors.
Engineer Varun Gupta (Regional Officer, Himachal Pradesh Pollution Control Board, Dharamshala) delivered an insightful PowerPoint presentation on environmental laws, pollution control, solid waste management, e-waste, and green building concepts. He stressed the adoption of energy-efficient and eco-friendly practices in the hospitality sector.
The Waste Warriors Team also participated, sharing their experiences and advocating for sustainable lifestyles and community-based waste management. An interactive Q&A session followed, allowing students to engage with experts on practical challenges and solutions.
At the close of the event, all participants pledged to adopt eco-friendly practices and work toward a safer future for coming generations. The day’s events were coordinated by Prof. Debasis Sahu and co-coordinator Prof. Amit Gangotia. Active involvement from young faculty, researchers, and students made this one of the university’s most expansive celebrations.
For over a decade, Tourism Week at Central Himachal Pradesh University has evolved beyond a calendar event into a bridge between academic learning and practical experience. The 2025 edition holds special significance, aligning with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, India’s “Viksit Bharat @2047” vision, and Himachal Pradesh’s growing identity as a sustainable tourism hub.
The university reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing graduates who are academically sound, socially responsible, and environmentally aware—ready to lead the tourism sector with sustainability, inclusivity, and cultural pride at its core.
