Special Program Organized at Dwat Mahadev on World Tourism Day Deputy Commissioner Mukesh Repswal Attends as Chief Guest
Subhash Mahajan
Chamba
Deputy Commissioner Mukesh Repswal has emphasized that Chamba district holds immense tourism potential and that connecting rural tourism with local livelihoods is a vital step forward. He was addressing the gathering as chief guest at a special program organized under the Chalo Chamba initiative at Dwat Mahadev on the occasion of World Tourism Day.
Extending warm greetings to all residents on World Tourism Day, the Deputy Commissioner said that tourism is not only a medium to showcase natural and cultural heritage to the world but also a powerful tool to strengthen the livelihoods of local communities.
He highlighted that Chamba’s natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, religious sites, and unique rural traditions make it a significant destination for tourism. By linking tourism with local livelihoods, new opportunities for employment and self-employment can be created for youth, women, and self-help groups.
Repswal underlined that local culture, traditional cuisine, agriculture, handicrafts, indigenous products, and homestays are the true strengths of rural tourism. Promoting and preserving these elements will not only boost the local economy but also open new livelihood avenues in rural areas. During the program, he also visited stalls set up by various self-help groups and appreciated their efforts.
He further stressed the importance of using digital technology and artificial intelligence to promote Chamba’s tourist destinations, local products, and cultural heritage at a wider scale. This, he said, would provide tourists with better information and facilities while connecting local tourism businesses with new markets.
The program’s central theme was to integrate rural tourism with livelihoods, community participation, culture, traditional knowledge, and local products. Self-help groups showcased local products and traditional food items, presenting the region’s rich culinary heritage as part of the tourism experience.
Groups such as Him Sakhi, Him Swaad, Gabdika, and Dwat Mahadev displayed traditional delicacies and local produce. Through these exhibits, visitors experienced the authentic flavors and traditions of the region.
Pahad Trust shared valuable insights on traditional seeds and indigenous agricultural knowledge, while sessions on adventure activities and equipment provided informative experiences for participants. The program also featured folk dances, village tours, experience-sharing sessions, and plantation drives.
Deputy Commissioner Repswal, along with other officials, visited local homestays and interacted with operators and community members. They discussed opportunities in rural tourism, hospitality, traditional cuisine, and ways to enhance tourist experiences.
Communities from Mystic Village Khajjiar and Mystic Village Dwat Mahadev also actively participated, sharing their experiences related to local culture, traditions, and rural tourism. The NotOnMap team played a key role in organizing the event and strengthening community participation.
Similar programs and activities were also held in Sural, Dalhousie, and Khajjiar, where local communities, tourism stakeholders, and institutions took part enthusiastically.
The event was attended by District Tourism Development Officer Rajiv Mishra, District Revenue Officer Vikramjeet Singh, Economist from the Rural Development Department Vinod Kumar, representatives of tourism-related institutions, self-help groups, and a large number of local residents.
