Tourism Conclave “Integrating Tourism into Mainstream Development & Medical Value Travel” 8th October 2010: Shahjehan, Hotel Taj Palace, New Delhi SUGGESTED PROGRAMME 1000-1030 Hrs: Registration and Tea 1030-1130 Hrs: Inaugural Session 1130-1245 Hrs: Plenary Session - I: Integrating Tourism into Mainstream Development Integrated development of tourism along with mainstream development in the country is being actively debated at various forums within the tourism sector and at the governmental level. The issue however is “Development” and there is a need to find means and ways to ensure the same. Integrating the development of tourism with the mainstream development through convergence of resources would definitely help tourism grow at a fast pace. The Tourism Industry has a huge potential for employment and revenue generation in India and session would lay emphasis on Integration of Tourism into mainstream development for the growth of the sector. Q&A 1245- 1400 Hrs: Plenary Session – II: – Niche Tourism – Destination India Travel through Indian states and cities brings to light rich culture, heritage and the geographical richness of India. India has the Tourism Potential and attractions to captivate all types of tourists whether it is adventure, culture, pilgrimage, scenic mountain beauty, beautiful beaches wildlife, hill stations & & heritage. It is these Niche Products that the different states of India provide that makes Tourism in India a must visit destination for both domestic and International Tourists. Q&A 1400- 1430Hrs: Networking Lunch 1430-1545 Hrs: Plenary Session III: Responsible & Sustainable Tourism Practices – A Way Forward The session would explore ways to promote Responsible and Sustainable Tourism Practices. Resource demands of tourism have severe impacts upon the environment. With the increased footfalls of tourists, the deep need today is that tourism like other sector be planned and managed suitably. Tourism ought to be initiated at any location with the help of local community. The involvement of local community helps maintaining the appropriate tourism development. To cause large growth in sustainable development, there is need that codes, ethics and some fair guidelines be appointed. Q&A 1545-1700 Hrs: Plenary Session IV: Policy Initiatives on Medical Tourism by Ministry of Tourism -Panel Discussion While India has always been receiving patients from the Western countries of United States and Britain, lack of quality medical services has prompted tourists from neighboring countries such as Afghanistan, SAARC, Middle East etc to travel to India for treatment. Apart from dramatically lower costs, India offers the availability of latest medical technologies, world class infrastructure and a growing compliance on international quality standards, as well as a vastly English speaking workforce. The Indian Ministry of Tourism’s 13 overseas offices are stocked with information for those intending to travel to India for medical treatment. Ministry of Tourism India (MoT) is planning to extend its Market Development Assistance (MDA) scheme to cover Joint Commission International (JCI) and National Accreditation Board of Hospitals (NABH) certified hospitals. The extension of validity of Medical visas (M-Visa) is also being looked into. 1700-1715 Hrs: 1715 – 1830 Hrs: Networking Tea Showcasing Indian Healthcare * 15 minute Audio Visual Sessions / Brief Talks by Major Service Providers- Paid slots 1830* Hrs onwards : Fortis Hospitals Max Healthcare Apollo Group Medanta: Medi City Columbia Asia Sound & Light Show, Cultural Show & Dinner Hosted by Ministry of Tourism at Red Fort * Coach will leave for Red Fort at 1830hrs from Taj Palace Hotel.