Govt to observe tourism week, month involving youths

The government has decided to observe 'Tourism Week' and 'Tourism Month' in phases, engaging the public, especially the younger generation, to ensure inclusive and sustainable growth in the country's travel and leisure industry.

This was revealed on 26 September at a press conference on the occasion of World Tourism Day, which will be celebrated in Bangladesh, as in other parts of the world, under the theme of "Tourism and Peace".

"Tourism is not solely the responsibility of the government. The public is a key stakeholder, and private sector entrepreneurs must also come forward to promote the industry," said Civil Aviation and Tourism Secretary Nasreen Jahan at the briefing at the secretariat.

Highlighting the critical role of public participation, she stated that tourism currently contributes 3.02% to the country's GDP, while the National Industrial Policy of 2022 identifies 12 subsectors within the tourism industry, offering vast employment opportunities.

She also mentioned that the government will implement various initiatives following the recently completed 'Tourism Master Plan' to ensure the sector's comprehensive development.

Additionally, Nasreen Jahan announced a special initiative to provide training to family members of the heroic martyrs of the July-August uprisings, enabling them to contribute to the tourism industry.

In response to a question, the secretary stated that an initiative has been taken to gain the confidence of both domestic and international tourists regarding the improvement of the country's security situation following the July-August mass uprising. 

All Bangladeshi missions abroad have been instructed to promote the improved scenario of Bangladesh while efforts are underway to convince various countries to withdraw their travel advisories for the nation.

The secretary also highlighted the different programmes that have been organised to celebrate World Tourism Day in the country tomorrow.

Regarding this year's theme, "Tourism and Peace", she explained that tourism plays a vital role as a catalyst in the process of building peace, fostering positive attitudes among various countries, cultures, and peoples.

Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation Chairman AKM Aftab Hossain Pramanik, Bangladesh Tourism Board CEO Abu Taher Md Jaber, Member of the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh SM Lablur Rahman, and the ministry's Additional Secretary Begum Fatema Rahim Veena were also among those who spoke.

The Civil Aviation and Tourism Ministry, along with its affiliated organisations, the Tourist Police, and other government and private entities, has planned a series of events to celebrate this day with great enthusiasm.

The programmes include a colourful rally starting at 8:00am from the Tourism Building in Agargaon, followed by a seminar at 9:00am in the 'Shailpropat Hall' of the Tourism Building, focusing on the day's theme.

Special discounts have been announced by hotels, motels, and restaurants for this occasion, while Biman Bangladesh Airlines is offering special ticket discounts. The Bangladesh Tourism Corporation will organise a live cooking show, and painting and essay competitions will be arranged for children at tourism centres in each district to spread awareness about tourism.

On this occasion, the President and the Chief Advisor have already issued messages, and special supplements will be published in newspapers. Since 1980, the UN's tourism body has proclaimed this day, which has been celebrated with due reverence in member countries worldwide.