Dismayed to note that in last 1 year, only one model rural cluster identified: Par panel

New Delhi, Feb 3 (PTI) – A parliamentary committee has commended the Ministry of Tourism’s Best Village Competition but expressed disappointment over the slow implementation of its rural tourism initiatives. The panel highlighted that in the past year, only one Model Rural Cluster has been identified, with no substantial progress on the ground.

The committee's observations were part of a report titled "Action Taken by the Government on the Recommendations/Observations of the Committee contained in its Three Hundred Fifty Seventh Report on the subject Development of Niche Tourism (including Spiritual Tourism), Theme-based Tourist Circuits and Potential Tourist Spots," which was presented in Parliament on Monday.

Strengthening India’s Tourism Promotion Abroad​

The panel also reviewed the promotion of Indian tourism abroad, acknowledging the competence of Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) officers but suggesting that trained Tourism Ministry officers be posted in Indian missions worldwide to enhance promotional efforts.

In response, the Ministry of Tourism stated that it would collaborate with the MEA to explore this possibility. The committee also noted that the MEA is considering designating Tourism Officers in all Indian missions, in addition to the existing 20 officers stationed in top source markets for tourism. The panel recommended expanding this initiative to more missions abroad.

To address gaps in tourism promotion, the committee suggested virtual meetings between the two ministries, involving key stakeholders such as tour operators, to strengthen international tourism marketing. The panel also raised concerns over the limited number of meetings held by tourism officers with foreign tourism agents and Indian stakeholders, urging the ministry to ensure more frequent and structured engagements.

Focus on Rural and Border Tourism​

While appreciating the Best Village Competition, the committee criticized the lack of tangible progress in rural tourism development. It particularly emphasized the Vibrant Villages Programme, which targets far-flung, border-area villages in challenging terrains.

Highlighting Uttarakhand’s border villages, the committee recommended that the Ministry of Tourism prioritize the development of a Model Rural Cluster in the state, given its rich cultural heritage and traditional significance.

India’s Weak Global Standing in MICE Tourism​

The panel also raised concerns over India’s limited presence in the global MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry, despite being one of the world's fastest-growing economies. The country accounts for less than 1% of the global MICE market, with its ranking at 28th place in the 2019 International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) report.

Indian cities fare poorly in global MICE rankings, with only seven cities making it into the top 475 worldwide. Delhi ranks the highest at 75th place (37 meetings), while Ahmedabad is at the 424th position (4 meetings). Even Goa, a premier tourist destination, is ranked at 307th place with just eight meetings.

The committee stressed that while India's outbound MICE market is expanding rapidly, efforts must be intensified to position the country as a global MICE destination.

With these recommendations, the parliamentary panel has urged the Tourism Ministry to take swift action to improve rural tourism development and enhance India's global tourism promotion strategy.