MP Khandelwal advocates national religious tourism policy

The Member of Parliament from Chandni Chowk and secretary general of the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), Praveen Khandelwal, has advocated the establishment of a national religious tourism policy, citing the significant economic potential demonstrated by the ongoing Maha Kumbh mela at Prayagraj.

“With an estimated 60 crore pilgrims expected to take a holy dip during the event, it is projected to generate a business of over Rs 3 lakh crore,” Khandelwal said, stressing the need to capitalise on religious tourism.

Khandelwal said the success of the mela underscored the urgent need for a structured policy to promote religious tourism across India.

“The public has given us the duty of opposition and the AAP will show what a strong opposition it is,” he said, emphasising that the event highlighted both challenges and opportunities within the sector.

“The absence of a comprehensive policy results in challenges related to infrastructure, safety, hygiene and the overall management of religious sites,” Khandelwal stated. He believes that a well-structured national religious tourism policy can address these issues while unlocking the vast economic, cultural and employment potential of the sector.

Khandelwal outlined several key aspects of the proposed policy, including the modernisation and conservation of religious sites, improving infrastructure such as transportation, accommodation and sanitation, and promoting eco-friendly tourism.