In a strategic move to tap into a new tourism market, India’s Ministry of Tourism is venturing into wedding tourism, seeking to cater to couples from around the world looking to tie the knot in enchanting Indian locales. Union Tourism Minister G Kishan Reddy emphasized that the Ministry is dedicated to overseeing every aspect of a wedding journey, ensuring a seamless experience “from the first hello to the final I do.” While the country has previously promoted medical and wellness tourism, this foray into wedding tourism signifies a new approach.
The initial focus will be on 25 select destinations, which are being positioned on the global stage as prime wedding locations. India’s rich cultural heritage lends itself well to this endeavor, with plans to spotlight various wedding options, including royal weddings that exude opulence, picturesque beach weddings, and idyllic Himalayan weddings that boast natural beauty.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has previously endorsed the concept of wedding tourism, aligning it with the nation’s broader goals of promoting religious and cultural tourism. This new direction aligns with India’s ongoing efforts to showcase its multifaceted attractions and create an all-encompassing tourist experience.
BJP Strategist Explores Kerala’s Political Landscape
Radha Mohan Agarwal, the newly appointed national general secretary of the BJP, is making significant strides in Kerala’s political landscape. As the upcoming by-election for the Puthuppally constituency approaches on September 4, Agarwal has taken a proactive approach, immersing himself in the campaign. Accompanied by his wife Ragini, who hails from Kerala and serves as his interpreter, Agarwal is engaging in meetings with local socio-cultural figures to bolster the party’s reputation.
Despite Agarwal’s assertion that he is not directly intervening in the campaign of BJP candidate G Lijin Lal, his presence has generated mixed reactions among local leaders. While Agarwal’s efforts to cultivate goodwill for the party are evident, insiders report some reservations among local party members.
G20 Health Ministers Embrace Culture in Gandhinagar
The conclusion of the G20 Health Ministers’ meeting in Gandhinagar witnessed a unique fusion of culture and diplomacy. A cultural program and dinner brought together senior officials from the health ministry and foreign delegates in a joyous display of unity. The beats of ‘garba,’ a traditional dance form, resonated as senior officials, including Ministers of State for Health Bharati Pravin Pawar and S P Singh Baghel, as well as Health Secretary Sudhanshu Pant, enthusiastically joined the dance.
While Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya cheered on from the sidelines, the event symbolized a harmonious convergence of global health leaders celebrating both professional collaboration and cultural exchange.