Sudhanshu Sharma
The Institute of Vocational Studies, Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla, successfully organised a one-day workshop on “Awareness and Sensitization for Rural Sustainable Tourism Development.” The program aimed to explore tourism opportunities in rural areas, connect local communities, and particularly empower women and youth by highlighting self-employment prospects.
Around 75 participants—including panchayat representatives, members of women’s groups, and self-help group members—from different regions of the state took part enthusiastically. The sessions provided detailed insights into the concept of rural tourism, its potential, challenges, and its economic, social, and cultural dimensions.
Key Highlights
- Inaugural Session: Prof. Joginder Dhiman, Dean Planning, HPU, served as the chief guest. He emphasized that Himachal Pradesh, with its natural beauty, rich culture, and traditional lifestyle, holds immense tourism potential. Planned and sustainable rural tourism, he said, could strengthen local economies and generate new employment opportunities, with panchayat representatives playing a crucial role.
- Special Address: Prof. Chander Mohan highlighted tourism as not just an economic activity but also a medium of cultural exchange. He urged participants to identify and preserve local traditions, folk art, handicrafts, and cuisine, while promoting them through tourism.
- Keynote Lecture: Prof. Amit Gangotia from Central University, Dharamshala, elaborated on rural tourism’s diverse aspects. He explained how homestays, local cuisine, handicrafts, trekking, agri-tourism, and cultural programs can boost rural tourism. He stressed the importance of environmental conservation and sustainable use of resources to safeguard natural heritage for future generations.
Interactive Discussions
Participants engaged in dialogue sessions, sharing experiences and ideas. They showed keen interest in training, infrastructure development, and awareness of government schemes to promote rural tourism.
Valedictory Session
HPU Pro Vice-Chancellor Prof. Rajendra Verma, the chief guest, underlined rural tourism’s role in holistic development. He noted that community participation could make tourism a driver of both economic prosperity and social empowerment. He presented certificates of appreciation to participants and encouraged them to spread awareness in their respective regions.
Organizers’ Perspective
- Dr. Preeti, workshop convener, highlighted rural tourism as a powerful tool for women’s empowerment, enabling them to run homestays, market local products, and promote traditional cuisine and crafts.
- Prof. Sonia Khan, Director of the Institute, welcomed guests and participants, stressing the institute’s commitment to linking academic activities with community development.
Experts also trained participants in practical aspects of tourism management, communication with visitors, hygiene, and hospitality. Participants described the workshop as highly beneficial and called for similar training programs in the future.
The workshop not only enriched knowledge but also inspired rural communities—especially women and youth—to explore tourism opportunities. Organizers expressed hope that this initiative would strengthen sustainable tourism development in Himachal Pradesh’s villages, enhancing both economic and social well-being.
