SHIMLA/GREATER NOIDA: Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu addressed the India International Hospitality Expo-2023 today at Greater Noida, inviting hoteliers and entrepreneurs to invest in Himachal Pradesh's booming hospitality industry.

He said state is an all-season tourism destination, offering peaceful surroundings, scenery, and a friendly law & order system.

He said state government is seeking investments in five and seven-star hotels, health and wellness centers, and old age homes.

He also pointed out the increasing popularity of home stays among visitors seeking to experience the state's rich culture and traditions.

To improve tourist accessibility, the state government is working on enhancing air connectivity by constructing heliports in all district headquarters. The flights are already operational from Delhi to Shimla and Dharamshala. Plans are underway to expand Kangra airport to accommodate larger jets, he said.

CM assured tourists that the government remains committed to their well-being.

He cited recent instances where he personally oversaw relief and rescue operations during heavy rains and floods, ensuring the safe evacuation of over 70,000 tourists, including those stranded in sub-zero temperatures.

Vice Chairman HPTDC, R.S. Bali, highlighted the state's ambitious projects, particularly in Kangra district, which aims to become a favored wedding and pre-wedding destination. He reassured that most places in the state are now safe for travel, with efforts being made to restore the infrastructure affected by recent floods.

Sukhu inaugurated the Himachal Pavilion, featuring Himachali cuisine, and held a fruitful meeting with members of IEML and the Hotel Industry to discuss the government's plans for promoting tourism.

Present at the event were  Chairman of Indian Expo Mart Ltd (IEML), Rakesh Kumar; Managing Director HPTDC, Amit Kashyap; Advisor to HP Government at Delhi, Nandita Gupta; PRC, S.K. Singla; and Resident Commissioner Meera Mohanty.