Tourism capital's basket remains empty

Lokmat News Network

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: Disappointment prevailed amongst tourism stakeholders as Maharashtra's tourism capital, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (erstwhile Aurangabad), was left out of the state budget. The hopes of receiving financial ‘support’ for the city in the annual budget faded. Meanwhile, tourism experts expressed disappointment, as there was not even a mention of the district during the budget presentation.

The district is home to two world heritage sites, Ellora and Ajanta caves, along with several other iconic tourist destinations such as Bibi Ka Maqbara and Devgiri Fort. Currently, there is a wait for many initiatives to boost tourism in the tourism capital. In the state budget, there was mention of significant allocations for the development of various monuments, pilgrimage sites, and tourism infrastructure to preserve the state's cultural heritage. Besides, funds for ‘Jal Paryatan’ in Sindhudurg and Satara districts had also been approved. However, there was no clear mention of what would be given to the tourism capital.

Announcement in 2010, but what next?

In 2010, the state government declared Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar as the tourism capital of Maharashtra. However, there isn't even a signboard indicating this title in the city. The question is being raised about what has been achieved for tourism growth in the past 15 years. To boost tourism, there is a need to promote infrastructure development, film tourism, sports tourism, adventure tourism, and cultural tourism.

Need for a boost in medical tourism

A medical tourism policy has also been formulated. Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar has seen an increase in the network of corporate hospitals. Patients from across the country and even abroad come to the city for treatment. There was an expectation that the government would prioritise Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar to boost medical tourism. However, the budget has left disappointed, with no substantial support or provisions for this sector.

Facing the challenges

The president of Marathwada Tourism Development Organisation Jayant Gore said, “ While the budget allocation is a positive step, the tourism industry still faces challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, a shortage of skilled labour, and limited marketing efforts. To address these challenges, it is essential for both the government and private sector stakeholders to work together to develop a comprehensive strategy to promote tourism.”