India Boosts Tourism with 'Paryatan Mitra' and 'Paryatan Didi' Initiatives

On World Tourism Day, the Ministry of Tourism launched the 'Paryatan Mitra' and 'Paryatan Didi' initiatives to enhance tourist experiences across India's major destinations. These programs train locals to become tourism ambassadors, focusing on hospitality, cleanliness, and sustainability, with a special emphasis on empowering women and youth.

The Ministry of Tourism unveiled nation-wide initiatives 'Paryatan Mitra' and 'Paryatan Didi' on World Tourism Day, aimed at enriching tourist experiences across India's top destinations. The initiatives align with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of using tourism for social inclusion, job creation, and economic development.

Piloted in six key tourist sites—Orchha (Madhya Pradesh), Gandikota (Andhra Pradesh), Bodh Gaya (Bihar), Aizawl (Mizoram), Jodhpur (Rajasthan), and Sri Vijaya Puram (Andaman & Nicobar Islands)—the programs aim to train locals such as cab drivers, hotel staff, tour guides, and street vendors in hospitality, cleanliness, and sustainable practices.

These locals, transformed into tourism ambassadors and storytellers, enhance tourist experiences by sharing the cultural and historical significance of their regions. The initiative focuses on empowering women and youth to develop new tourism offerings like heritage walks, food tours, and homestays, extending to digital training for broader audience reach.

The training emphasizes hospitality in line with the 'Athithi Devo Bhava' philosophy, ensuring a high-quality tourist experience. Since the pilot launch on August 15, approximately 3,000 individuals have been trained, contributing to vibrant and positive interactions with visitors.

(With inputs from agencies.)