The Hindu Business Line : `TN must be projected as all-season tourist spot'

THE inherent potential of Tamil Nadu to be an all-season tourism destination for foreigners is well realised and this needs to be showcased and aggressively marketed, said the Commissioner for Tourism and the Managing Director of Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation, Mr Shakthikanta Das.

Ms Das inaugurated the three-day `Madurai Travel Mart', organised by Travel Club and the District Collectorate along with the Confederation of Indian Industry and the Tamil Nadu Chamber of Commerce and Industry here.

He said Tamil Nadu has diverse potential in terms of climate, culture, sanctuaries, seashores, falls, monuments, life-style and practices, spiritual tours, medi-care and conferences, in addition to well-known tourist spots. If the period of stay of the tourists is stretched a bit, tourism will get a fillip in the State and generate more employment opportunities.

The State has now adopted a three-pronged approach towards tourism. The focus is on creating adequate infrastructure in tourism spots, aggressive publicity and attractive packages.

Adequate funds for these purposes is not lacking, said Mr Das. Participation in international tourism fairs, advertisements and articles about Tamil Nadu in international travel magazines are also on, he said.

If a country like Malaysia can attract 13 million tourists a year, our tourism treasures can be exploited through proper efforts, Mr Das said. The travel mart by the stakeholders is a good step, he said.

The District Collector, Mr D. Raajendiran, in his address, said since tourism has become an industry, with scope for employment and foreign exchange earnings, both the Central and State Governments have given it top priority.

The Commissioner of Police, Mr Vijay Kumar, announcing the formation of a `tourist police' wing for the first time in the State, said the police wing would assist tourists in parking lots and patrol the Meenakshi temple and the Thirumalai Nayak Mahal.

Mr Sakthikanta Das released a CD on the Madurai Travel Mart. Prizes were given to the winners of the World Tourism Day competitions.

Earlier, Mr C. Nagendra Prasad, Chairman, Tamil Nadu chapter of the Indian Association of Tour Operators, inaugurated the exhibition organised by Travel Club. The fair has about 24 stalls of leading industry players.