Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Mar 21: The two day International Conference on “Sustainable Destination Excellence: Rebuilding from Crisis and Disasters” organized by School of Hospitality and Tourism Management (SHTM), University of Jammu concluded today.
Sunil Sharma, Minister of State for PWD and Revenue, was the chief guest on the occasion while JU Vice-Chancellor Prof R D Sharma presided over the function. The conference was attended by faculty members, research scholars from various national level universities, members of civil society, representative of industry, trade and commerce and students.
Sunil Sharma, in his address, said that tourism industry is highly vulnerable to crisis and disasters and that the focus towards sustainable development is the prerequisite to ensure the growth of this sector. He said that Universities should play a pivotal role in producing trained manpower that can supplement with professionals in highly service oriented industry.
Prof R D Sharma said that tourism should be developed responsibly and the development should not be at the cost of destroying the natural resources.
Prof Manoj Dixit, Director, Institute of Tourism Studies, University of Lucknow, in his valedictory address, highlighted various forms of crisis that the tourism industry can encounter. He suggested that the industry should be prepared for potential crisis situations and focused on 4R’s of Crisis Management i.e. Reduction, Readiness, Response and Recovery.
Prof Keshav Sharma, Dean, Faculty of Business Studies, JU, said that the local residents should not exploit the natural resources to ensure the preservation and protection of tourism industry
Prof Parikshat Singh Manhas, Director, SHTM and conference convener said that due to the resilience capacity of the tourism industry in J&K State, there has been sustained growth despite facing tremendous pressures over last 3 decades. He also presented the detailed conference report.
Dr Anil Gupta presented vote of thanks while Dr Suvidha Khanna conducted proceedings of the function.
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