PR No – 82
21st March, 2025
New Delhi
Himalayan Tourism Samman and Conclave 2025: Pioneering Sustainable Tourism in the Himalayas
The PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) successfully hosted the Himalayan Tourism Samman and Conclave at Hotel Madhuban, Dehradun, on March 21, 2025. This landmark event brought together industry leaders, environmental experts, and business pioneers to chart a sustainable future for tourism in the Himalayan region. With a focus on fostering cross-border collaboration, empowering local communities, and preserving the region’s ecological and cultural heritage, the conclave set a new benchmark for responsible tourism development.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by distinguished personalities, including Mr. Hemant Kochhar, Chair of PHDCCI Uttarakhand; Mr. Sumit Aggarwal, Co-Chair of PHDCCI Uttarakhand; Shri Pitambar Joshi, President of the Kanchanpur Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Nepal; Ms. Anjali Bharthari Ravi, Co-Convenor of INTACH; Dr. Pradeep Mehta, State Head Uttarakhand, UNDP; and Mr. P K Patro, Managing Director (CCF) of Uttarakhand Eco Tourism Development Corporation.
The conclave featured thought-provoking discussions on critical topics such as, Sustainable Tourism Development strategies to balance tourism growth with ecological preservation; Creating income-generating opportunities for Himalayan villages through eco-tourism; Ensuring tourism activities respect the region’s fragile ecosystems and Leveraging radio, film, social media, and digital platforms to promote the Himalayas as a global destination.
Mr. Ravi Bankar, Founder of Genesis Leisure Consulting, emphasized the potential of health and wellness tourism, while Mr. Hemwant Adhikari from Radio Divine 90.4 FM highlighted the role of local radio in community engagement and tourism promotion. Mr. Mukul Agarwal, a renowned film and television personality, discussed the transformative impact of film and digital media on the tourism economy.
Dr. Pankaj Tewari, Executive Director of Aarohi Society, shared innovative approaches to uplifting rural Himalayan communities through tourism. Ms. Anjali Bharthari Ravi advocated for inclusive tourism, ensuring accessibility for all, while Mr. Mayank, Centre Head of The Tourism School, explored the growing influence of blogging and vlogging in shaping travel trends.
The event saw participation from representatives of tourism and hospitality sectors, government agencies, and NGOs, all united in their commitment to preserving the Himalayan region’s natural and cultural heritage while driving sustainable economic growth.
The highlight of the conclave will be the Himalayan Tourism Samman award ceremony on March 22, 2025. This prestigious event will honor individuals, organizations, and initiatives that have made exceptional contributions to eco-tourism, heritage conservation, and sustainable development in the Himalayas.
The Himalayan region, with its unparalleled natural beauty and cultural richness, is a global treasure. However, unchecked tourism poses significant threats to its ecosystems and communities. The Himalayan Tourism Samman and Conclave represents a bold step toward ensuring that tourism development is both sustainable and inclusive, safeguarding the region for future generations.
As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, the Himalayan Tourism Samman and Conclave offers a blueprint for sustainable tourism that other regions can emulate.
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Warm Regards,
Media Division, PHDCCI