Indo-Bhutan Tourism Seminar Held in Phuentsholing
Indo-Bhutan Tourism Seminar Held in Phuentsholing
Phuentsholing, Bhutan, December 23, 2024 – A milestone event titled “Cultures in Harmony: Indo-Bhutan Seminar on Tourism” was held today at Hotel Palm, Phuentsholing. Organized by the Consulate General of India in Phuentsholing in collaboration with the Bhutan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI), the seminar brought together stakeholders from both nations to discuss the future of tourism and explore avenues for enhanced cross-border collaboration.
The seminar commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, a gesture symbolizing the unity and harmony between India and Bhutan. Distinguished dignitaries in attendance included Uttar Kumar Rai, Consul General of India in Phuentsholing; the Thrompon of Phuentsholing Thromde; the Regional Secretary of the BCCI; the Regional Director of Immigration, MoICE; Captain Shacha of the Royal Bhutan Police; and the Deputy Chief of Bhutan’s Department of Tourism. Representatives from Alipurduar’s tourism sector, hoteliers and tourism stakeholders from Phuentsholing & Jaigaon, the EDO Chhukha, and the Chairman of the Pachu Community added to the diversity and significance of the gathering.
The seminar delved into key issues and opportunities for regional tourism growth. Discussions revolved around the facilitation of tourist entry and exit protocols at land ports, the immigration clearance process, Bhutan’s tourism policies, and the development potential of Chhukha Dzongkhag and Phuentsholing Thromde. One of the highlights was an engaging session on the unexplored Duars region, an area with vast untapped potential as a travel destination.
Participants actively engaged in a vibrant Q&A session, exchanging ideas and insights on overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities in the tourism sector. The event also featured a business-to-business (B2B) session, creating a platform for Indian and Bhutanese stakeholders to forge partnerships and explore collaborative ventures.
The seminar concluded with a networking lunch, fostering further dialogue in a relaxed setting. The event not only emphasized the shared cultural and economic ties between India and Bhutan but also highlighted the region’s vast potential as a global tourism hub.
By promoting sustainable growth and mutual benefits, the “Cultures in Harmony” seminar marked a significant step forward in strengthening Indo-Bhutan relations in the tourism sector.
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