Jaipur, January, 2020: Tourism has immense potential in Rajasthan, much is being done and much more needs to be done if we are to truly exploit it. Rajasthan has only exploited 20 percent of its tourism potential. There is need to focus on ethical and sustainable tourism by way of which we leave minimal impact on the places we visit. This was stated by Minister of Tourism, Government of Rajasthan, Shri Vishvendra Singh. He was speaking on the topic of ‘Sustainable and Responsible Tourism’ at the unveiling of the book ‘Secrets of Amber. Come Walk With Me In My Beloved Amber’ by Dr Rashmi Dickinson at the Jaipur Literature Festival (JLF) at Hotel Diggi Palace. The Minister was in conversation with the author and Dr. Edward Dickinson.

The Minister further said that Rajasthan has the maximum number of heritage hotels in the country. Special concessions are being extended by the State to heritage properties which has contributed to this large figure. Smaller interventions can take us a long way towards practicing responsible tourism. Without losing money and making heavy duty investments, we can make a conscious effort to source food locally, employ locals and involve the global community. By recycling waste, valuing our water and electricity, reducing plastic waste we can keep culture and environment at the heart of our businesses. The Government of Rajasthan is in the process of formulating a ‘New Tourism Policy’ taking initiative to maximise, socialize and economise benefits to the local communities, conserve natural resources, protect heritage and begin awareness in a campaign mode.

Talking about the book, author, Dr. Rashmi Dickinson said “The book contains accounts of 12 walks in and around the heritage town of Amber. It was during my walks that I realized that there are parts of Amber which are in a very dilapidated condition, even some of the main parts. If we have responsible tourism in Amber, both the visitors and local people would benefit. She further announced that all royalties from book will be contributed to ‘Amber Ladies Collective’. The collective will support orphaned and destitute women. These women will be further trained to become licensed tour guides for Amber.”