indian states increase marketing to attract tourists

INDIAN states are bracing themselves for a tough fight to attract tourists to their regions next year.

Public perception that India is close to the conflict in Afghanistan has persuaded many would-be visitors to change travel plans away from the country.

Each state intends to increase its marketing during 2002 to convince people that India is unaffected by the war and it is safe to travel.

Maharashtra, which has Bombay at its heart, is very popular with visitors under normal circumstances, but tourism chiefs have admitted that numbers have declined in recent weeks.

Ashish Singh, managing director of the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation, said: “We must show people that Afghanistan is far away from us.

But it is very difficult as there is this misconception we are near the war. In fact Bombay is as far away from Kabul as London is from Istanbul.”

Singh is spearheading a £2 million drive by the state to promote itself as safe. Press and marketing campaigns will feature in foreign countries, including the UK. Education tours for travel agents and other industry staff will also be arranged.

“We will be very aggressive with our promotions,” added Singh.

Part of the marketing push will involve the new luxury train journey across the state. The Deccan Odyssey has comfortable carriages, a colonial style restaurant and plush fittings. Hotels will also be part of the drive.

Taj Hotels, Resorts and Palaces general manager sales Gev Patel confirmed bookings had dropped. “Things are not as good as they could be,” he said.

Patel said his sector of the industry should not just discount to get people back, but also explain that India is safe and is not affected by terrorism or war.