TBM Staff - Mumbai
In a significant step towards enhancing rural tourism and sustainable livelihoods in Uttar Pradesh, two Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) were signed at the UP Tourism Directorate in Lucknow. The MOUs were signed by Mukesh Kumar Meshram, Principal Secretary, Tourism and Culture, Uttar Pradesh, Deepa Ranjan, Mission Director, UPSRLM, Eesha Priya, Special Secretary, Tourism, Uttar Pradesh, and other distinguished guests.
The first MOU was signed between the Directorate of Tourism, Uttar Pradesh, and the State Rural Livelihood Mission (UPSRLM). This five-year agreement aims to promote tourism and develop tourism infrastructure while empowering rural communities through sustainable livelihood development and improved access to financial services.
Under the MOU, the Directorate of Tourism will focus on identifying and addressing infrastructure gaps in selected villages, developing tourism infrastructure, mobilising communities for tourism activities, organising capacity-building programs, and promoting homestays. UPSRLM, on the other hand, will identify potential Self-Help Groups (SHGs), mobilise communities, and build the capacity of SHG members through training programs.
The second MOU was signed between UPSRLM and Manyawar Kanshiram Institute of Tourism Management, Department of Tourism, Government of Uttar Pradesh. This partnership aims to develop a sustainable model for promoting food service enterprises in the state. UPSRLM will develop replicable models of sustainable food service enterprises with technical support from the Institute.
The initiatives aim to transform the state’s tourism landscape and create a vibrant tourism ecosystem that benefits both tourists and local communities. Promoting rural tourism will significantly boost local economies, provide diverse livelihood opportunities, and enhance infrastructure to host a variety of tourism experiences. To this end, 229 villages have already been identified for tourism development. These efforts will empower rural communities through skill development training and promoting their art, craft, culture, and cuisine.
Jaiveer Singh, Minister of Tourism and Culture, Uttar Pradesh, emphasised that these MOUs are a proof of the state’s commitment to elevating the entire tourism ecosystem. Mukesh Kumar Meshram, Principal Secretary, Tourism and Culture, Uttar Pradesh, noted that the collaboration with UPSRLM and Manyawar Kanshiram Institute is a significant stride towards sustainable tourism and community empowerment. Deepa Ranjan, Mission Director, UPSRLM, added that the partnership will empower rural communities by integrating them into the tourism value chain, creating new opportunities for economic growth and sustainable development. Eesha Priya, Special Secretary, Tourism, stated that the synergy between tourism development and rural livelihood enhancement is crucial for the holistic growth of the state.
