The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India (Northern Region), took center stage at the prestigious Taj Mahotsav and the ‘Agra Beyond Taj’ Conference, held in Agra. The event brought together over 150 tourism stakeholders, media representatives, influencers, and YouTubers to discuss sustainable tourism practices and promote Agra’s cultural and heritage sites beyond the iconic Taj Mahal.
Dr. R.K. Suman, Regional Director (North), Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, inaugurated the conference by outlining the Ministry’s guidelines and policies. He stressed the importance of showcasing Agra’s lesser-known heritage sites in a sustainable manner to enhance the visitor experience and extend tourist stays in the region.
The conference featured a panel of distinguished speakers, including Shri Rajiv Narain, Vice President of SPHEEHa; Shri Ved Khanna, President of ADTOI and former President of the Tourism Guild of Agra; Mr. Shakti Singh, RTO, Agra & Aligarh Region, UP Tourism; Mr. Pankaj Gupta from SPHEEHa; Mr. Arun Dang, former President of the Tourism Guild of Agra; Ms. Soity Banerjee from Outlook Responsible Tourism Initiative; Mr. Ashu Gupta, Sustainability Expert; and Mr. Ram Pratap, Chairman of Chambal Safari, Agra. Mr. Sandeep Shukla, Assistant Director, Indiatourism Agra, and Mr. Rajiv Saxena, President of the Tourism Guild of Agra, also contributed to the discussions.
A dynamic panel discussion and an interactive Q&A session allowed participants to engage with experts on sustainable tourism practices and the promotion of Agra’s hidden gems. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Rajiv Saxena.
In the evening, attendees explored the vibrant Taj Mahotsav at Shilp Gram, Agra, enjoying cultural performances and handicraft stalls. They also visited the Taj Mahal and other underrated heritage sites in the city, gaining a deeper appreciation for Agra’s rich cultural tapestry.
On February 28, participants will embark on a familiarization (FAM) tour to Fatehpur Sikri, Keoladeo National Park in Bharatpur, and Lohagarh Fort in Rajasthan. This tour aims to highlight lesser-known destinations near Agra, encouraging tourists to extend their visits and explore the region’s diverse offerings.
The Ministry of Tourism’s initiative reflects its commitment to promoting heritage tourism sustainably, ensuring a holistic and enriching experience for travelers while boosting local economies. By showcasing Agra’s hidden treasures, the Ministry aims to create a lasting impact on India’s tourism landscape.
