In a remarkable move towards enhancing sustainability and
creating job opportunities for women in the tourism sector, Madhya Pradesh (MP)
has launched the 'Sankalp: Safe Tourism Campaign.' This ambitious initiative,
initially launched as a 15-day campaign from August 10 to 25, aims to
revolutionize tourism in the state. The campaign will subsequently be
implemented in phases, encompassing 50 tourist destinations grouped into 20
clusters.
Empowering Women Through Tourism
At the heart of the 'Sankalp: Safe Tourism Campaign' lies
the idea of empowering women through tourism. The project has received approval
from the Central Ministry of Women and Child Development Department under the
'Nirbhaya Scheme.' It is being executed in collaboration with UN Women, Women
and Child Development, Urban Development and Housing Department, and the Police
Department. The overarching goal is to create a safe and conducive environment
for women by providing them with training and raising awareness about their
safety.
Diverse Opportunities for Women
One of the most exciting aspects of this initiative is the
diverse range of opportunities it offers to women in the tourism sector. For
instance, women will be trained to become boat operators at Omkareshwar, a
popular tourist destination located approximately 80 km from Indore. These
skilled operators will host and guide tourists, showcasing the region's beauty
from a unique perspective. In addition to this, women will also be groomed as
storytellers, enabling them to narrate the rich history of the state to eager
travelers.
Transforming Villagers into Boat Operators
In a heartening development, more than a dozen women from
local villages are currently undergoing training to become proficient boat operators,
ready to ferry tourists. If all goes as planned, the first batch of trained
boat operators will be ready to take on their roles within the next two months.
This is a significant step towards making tourist destinations not only
women-friendly but also economically empowering for local communities.
Diverse Training Program
Under the 'Safe Tourism Destination for Women' program
initiated by the state tourism board, women are receiving training in a wide
array of sectors. This includes hospitality, security, driving, photography,
and self-defense, among others. The overarching objective is to transform MP's
tourist destinations into safe havens for women travelers.
A Commitment to Safety and Inclusivity
MP Tourism Principal Secretary Sheo Shekhar Shukla
reaffirmed the state's commitment to making tourist destinations safe and
welcoming for all. He shared that they have embarked on an ambitious project to
train 10,000 women in various hospitality-related roles, encouraging their
active participation in the tourism industry. Additionally, they are also
providing self-defense training to 40,000 women in and around 50 destinations
to ensure the safety of women travelers.
Cluster-Based Approach
Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board has divided the state into 20
clusters, encompassing 50 tourist spots. This approach allows for focused
training initiatives tailored to the unique characteristics of each cluster.
Omkareshwar is among the first destinations to benefit from this program, with
training already underway. The second phase will include Maheshwar and other
water bodies, where tourists frequently engage in boating activities.
In conclusion, MP's 'Sankalp: Safe Tourism Campaign' not
only promises to transform the tourism landscape of the state but also offers a
beacon of hope for women in local communities. By empowering women with skills
and opportunities, Madhya Pradesh is not only creating women-friendly tourist
destinations but also fostering sustainable tourism that benefits all
stakeholders.
Women-Friendly Tourism Destinations Under the 'Sankalp:
Safe Tourism Campaign'
The 'Sankalp: Safe Tourism Campaign' in Madhya Pradesh is
set to transform several tourism destinations into women-friendly hubs. Here
are some of the key destinations that will benefit from this empowering
initiative:
1. Omkareshwar: Located 80 kilometers from Indore,
Omkareshwar is a picturesque town known for its spiritual significance. Women
here are being trained as boat operators and storytellers to provide a unique
and enriching experience for tourists.
2. Maheshwar: Known for its scenic beauty and historical
heritage, Maheshwar is another destination where women will play an integral
role in enhancing the tourist experience.
3. Water Bodies: Numerous water bodies in Madhya
Pradesh, such as lakes and rivers, are part of this initiative. Women will be actively
involved in activities like boating and guiding tourists through the serene
waters.
4. Historical Sites: Historical sites and monuments
across the state will benefit from women-trained guides who will share the rich
history and cultural heritage of these locations.
5. Wildlife Sanctuaries: Madhya Pradesh boasts
diverse wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. Women will participate in
activities like nature guiding and wildlife photography, adding an extra layer
of knowledge and experience to visitors.
6. Cultural Events: Women will be involved in
organizing and managing cultural events, ensuring tourists have a deep and
immersive cultural experience during their visit.
7. Handicraft and Souvenir Shops: In addition to
frontline roles, women will be encouraged to start and manage handicraft and
souvenir shops, promoting local craftsmanship.
8. Homestays: Some women will offer homestay options,
allowing tourists to experience the warmth and hospitality of Madhya Pradesh's
culture firsthand.
9. Local Cuisine: Women will also participate in
promoting local cuisine, sharing the flavors and traditions of the region
through food festivals and culinary experiences.
10. Adventure Tourism: For those seeking adventure,
women-trained instructors will lead activities like trekking, camping, and
outdoor sports.
FAQs
1. How can tourists support this initiative? Tourists
can actively participate by choosing women-led services and experiences during
their visit, such as guided tours, boat rides, and homestays.
2. Is this initiative limited to domestic tourists, or is
it open to international travelers as well? The 'Sankalp: Safe Tourism
Campaign' is open to all tourists, both domestic and international, who visit
Madhya Pradesh.
3. Are there any safety measures in place for women
travelers in addition to the training of local women? Yes, as part of the
campaign, 40,000 women are receiving self-defense training to ensure a safe
environment for women travelers.
4. How can women in Madhya Pradesh join this initiative?
Women interested in participating can connect with the Madhya Pradesh Tourism
Board and local authorities to explore training and employment opportunities.
5. What are some unique cultural experiences that
tourists can expect through this program? Tourists can expect cultural
immersion through activities like traditional dance performances, art
exhibitions, and culinary tours led by local women.
6. How will tourists be informed about women-led services
and experiences in Madhya Pradesh? The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board will
actively promote and market women-led services and experiences through various
channels, including their official website and tourist information centers.
7. Can tourists provide feedback on their experiences
with women-led services? Yes, tourists are encouraged to provide feedback
on their experiences, which will help enhance and improve the quality of
services offered by women in the tourism sector.
8. Are there any plans to expand this initiative to other
states in India? While the 'Sankalp: Safe Tourism Campaign' is currently
focused on Madhya Pradesh, its success may serve as a model for similar
initiatives in other states to empower women in tourism across the country.
For more information on this initiative and to explore
these women-friendly destinations, visit Sankalp Official Web Site
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