New Delhi: On the occasion of World Tourism Day, today, the Union Tourism Minister G Kishan Reddy said his ministry is talking to various stakeholders for the recovery of the tourism sector affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, while stressing that vaccination is key for its revival.

As part of the  World Tourism Day, the Union tourism ministry organised a conference on ''Tourism for Inclusive Growth'' here. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla was the chief guest at the event. Speaking on the occasion, Reddy emphasised that the tourism sector was the worst-hit during the pandemic, adding that ''The government has taken various measures for its revival and recovery, including five lakh free VISAs for foreign tourists.''

The minister said the Centre has also announced various packages and relaxations for the sector in the aftermath of the pandemic.

Asserting that the country has immense potential for tourism, Reddy said his ministry has been organising various events for promoting tourism in far-flung and unexplored areas of the country. A similar event was also organised for promoting tourism in the northeast, he added. He adds tourism is the growth engine of the economy and the country has a huge potential in this sector as it offers a wide range of destinations from beaches to deserts.

Vice President Venkaiah Naidu to be conferred Assam’s highest civilian award

Varun Gandhi urges Adityanath: Increase purchase price of sugarcane as farmers in distress

'Dekho Hamari Delhi' app that provides information about city's tourist spots: Kejriwal