By Chandan Singh | New Delhi | Page 3 News Worldwide
New Delhi — Delhi is set to redefine its global image as more than just a stopover destination, with Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announcing an ambitious roadmap to position the capital as a leading international tourism hub.
Speaking at a tourism stakeholders’ conference on Saturday, Ms Gupta said the city would emerge as a “global favourite”, driven by expert inputs that will shape a new and comprehensive tourism policy. The conference brought together policymakers, industry leaders and domain experts to deliberate on a wide spectrum of sectors, including heritage, hospitality, spiritual, medical and wellness tourism, alongside night tourism and digital innovation.
The event was attended by Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra, Managing Director of the Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation Suneel Anchipaka, and representatives from allied industries.
Emphasising the need for a strategic shift, Ms Gupta said Delhi must move beyond being perceived merely as a transit point. “It is time we position Delhi as a destination city where tourists stay longer, immerse themselves in experiences, and return repeatedly,” she said, adding that stakeholder feedback would be incorporated into future policies.
Highlighting Delhi’s strengths, the Chief Minister pointed to iconic landmarks such as Parliament of India, Rashtrapati Bhavan, India Gate and Prime Ministers Museum, along with heritage sites like Red Fort and Qutub Minar. She also underscored the capital’s rich cultural diversity and cuisine as key attractions for visitors.
Ms Gupta said the government is placing strong emphasis on enhancing Delhi’s brand positioning, with plans to develop it as a hub for tourism, as well as medical and educational excellence. She added that large-scale concerts, film festivals and cultural events are being actively promoted to boost the city’s global appeal, alongside digital innovation and night tourism initiatives.
On the sidelines of the conference, the Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation signed key agreements with Agoda, MakeMyTrip Foundation and Sabhyata Foundation to foster collaboration in digital tourism, infrastructure development and sustainable practices.
Tourism Minister Mr Mishra outlined a series of measures aimed at transforming the sector, including the establishment of a dedicated tourism board, a single-window clearance system, beautification of major entry points and the development of a Unity Mall. “With support from the central government, Delhi will be developed into a distinct global tourism destination that reflects the face of a changing India,” he said.
Both leaders expressed confidence that the conference would mark a turning point for Delhi’s tourism landscape, with tangible outcomes expected in the near future.
