UP emerging as tourism hub under CM Yogi, says minister

Gorakhpur: Uttar Pradesh has emerged as a new tourism hub under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, said state tourism and culture minister Jaiveer Singh on Sunday.Addressing a gathering after inaugurating the Gorakhpur Mahotsav at Champa Devi Park near Ramgarh Tal, the minister said that before 2017, UP was often referred to as a ‘Bimaru' state but rapid development is now visible due to improved law and order and focused governance. He said the state govt was making continuous efforts to promote tourism and culture, and festivals like Gorakhpur Mahotsav played an important role in showcasing Uttar Pradesh's rich cultural heritage at national and international levels.Singh said the festival not only helps in preserving culture but also strengthens local employment and economic activities by boosting tourism. He said Purvanchal's folk traditions, cuisine, traditional arts and local products were being given a platform through the event, which was encouraging local artists and craftsmen. Exhibitions related to handicrafts, books, khadi, ODOP products, local cuisine and tourism have also been organised and are drawing appreciation from visitors.He said the seven-day festival would feature cultural, literary and entertainment programmes, offering a glimpse of the cultural diversity of the state.MP Ravi Kishan Shukla said that under the guidance of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Gorakhpur and Uttar Pradesh were reaching new heights of development, not only in infrastructure and industry but also in creating opportunities for youth in arts, sports and entrepreneurship.