The tourism summit organized by the Punjab government last year also proved to be highly successful.

Chandigarh: The Punjab government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is fully committed to transforming the state into a prominent hub for tourism. With a rich cultural and historical heritage showcased through Mughal, Sikh, and British-era buildings, Punjab is poised to attract visitors from around the world. Chief Minister Mann is keen to put Punjab on the global tourism map and is personally overseeing these efforts.

The government's goal is to elevate Punjab to a leading position in the tourism sector compared to other states in India. Among major initiatives, Ranjit Sagar Lake has been identified as a significant project aimed at enhancing the state's tourism appeal. To boost this sector, the state government has implemented pro-investor and pro-industry policies. Notable heritage sites such as Durbar Hall and Gol Kothi in Kapurthala, Sangrur Kothi, Aam Khas Bagh in Sirhind, the Pinkashia Tourist Complex in Rupnagar, and Kulara Island in Pathankot have been developed for tourism.

Thanks to the concerted efforts of the state government, Punjab has been awarded the 'Best Tourism Villages of India 2024 Award,' recognizing its achievements in farm tourism at the national level. Village Hansali in Fatehgarh Sahib district has earned this prestigious accolade in agricultural tourism. This recognition is largely attributed to the continuous efforts of Hansali Organic Farm owner Sukhchain Singh Gill and his son Pawel Gill, along with the dedicated support of the Punjab Tourism Department. Hansali has emerged as an exemplary rural destination for agro-based tourism and organic farming. It is noteworthy that Sardaran, a village in Gurdaspur district, received the Best Tourism Village of India 2023 award last year.

The Department of Tourism is wholeheartedly dedicated to supporting initiatives that enhance tourism and economic development in the region. The state government remains committed to maintaining and developing tourism properties and institutions. Additionally, there is a strong focus on eco-tourism, adventure tourism, water tourism, and wellness tourism, all of which hold great potential for further promoting Punjab.

As part of a global campaign to popularize the state as a tourist destination, the Punjab government organized the seven-day Rangla Punjab Mela in February with great enthusiasm. This marks the first time under the current government that heritage fairs and festivals are being celebrated with a dedicated budget of Rs 15 crore. The tourism summit organized by the Punjab government last year also proved to be highly successful.

Furthermore, Chief Minister Mann has pledged to develop medical tourism in Punjab, particularly in Jalandhar. He emphasized that this initiative will not only elevate the medical and health sector but also provide the NRI community with accessible treatment close to home.