Pune district is set for a comprehensive tourism development plan in the upcoming days, including paragliding, cycling events and hot air balloon festivals, etc, said Deputy Chief Minister and Pune district guardian minister Ajit Pawar during progress meet on Monday.
Pawar highlighted the planned transformation of Pune district into a major tourism destination by enhancing heritage forts, ancient temples, scenic ghats and by introducing adventure sports culture. Additionally, hosting of international paragliding competition at Mulshi, a grand cycling challenge in all talukas, a hot air balloon festival in Baramati and Indapur and water sports facilities at Pawna dam.
Furthermore, cultural festivals such as music, drama, literature, poetry and storytelling will also be organised. Tourists will have the opportunity to join their hands for an adventurous experience including motor boating, zip-lining, etc, he added.
Pawar said, "Our target is to increase tourist footfall in Pune district to 10 million within the next 5 years generating approximately 50,000 direct and 5 lakh indirect jobs. Only 14 per cent of foreign tourists for Maharashtra are visiting Pune. This percentage needs to be increased in the future. This initiative would contribute Rs 10,000 to 15,000 crore to the district's revenue."
Furthermore, he emphasised that the plan will include creating of particular district tourism logo, slogan and branding for Pune district. A well-known personality will be appointed as the brand ambassador to promote tourism in Pune, he stated.
