Jaipur: The state is widening its tourism strategy beyond its iconic heritage destinations by promoting emerging regions such as Banswara, Bundi and Shekhawati, while simultaneously strengthening domestic tourism to counter the impact of global geopolitical uncertainties on international travel.Addressing stakeholders, tourism secretary Suchi Tyagi Wednesday said the govt is working to position Rajasthan as a destination offering a diverse range of experiences rather than being known only for its forts and palaces. She urged tour operators, hoteliers and travel companies to incorporate emerging destinations into their itineraries and invest in hospitality infrastructure to create sustained tourist footfall.She announced that the state’s first domestic travel mart will be held in Jodhpur next month. The event, held in Jaipur for the past five years, is being shifted to Jodhpur for the first time.While the govt is investing in infrastructure, connectivity and policy reforms, she said the private sector must play a leading role in developing tourism experiences and supporting balanced regional growth. The objective, she said, is to make Rajasthan a year-round destination, with newer circuits complementing established tourism hubs such as Jaipur, Udaipur and Jaisalmer.Speaking on the occasion, tourism commissioner Rukmani Riar said the department is also working on a homestay policy to expand accommodation options, while the Centre is preparing an adventure tourism policy that will benefit states including Rajasthan.Riar said the department would intensify its focus on domestic tourism this year through roadshows across the country in partnership with industry stakeholders to offset any decline in foreign tourist arrivals.Surendra Singh Shahpura, president of Federation of Hospitality and Tourism of Rajasthan (FHTR), which is organising the Rajasthan Domestic Travel Mart (RDTM), announced that special focus will be given to the Marwar region this year, with promotional roadshows planned in Bikaner, Jaisalmer and Jodhpur ahead of the main event to showcase the region’s heritage, desert landscapes, wildlife, culture and hospitality.
