Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], April 3 (ANI): The Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) has witnessed a record growth and major infrastructure rebuilding is being done in the state, highlighting significant strides in tourism infrastructure and revenue growth, RS Bali, Chairman of the HPTDC, on Friday said the state government is working on a long-term vision to transform Himachal Pradesh into a premier global tourism destination.

Addressing mediapersons here, Bali said the natural beauty and cultural richness of Himachal Pradesh continue to attract visitors from across the world, and the government is committed to further enhancing tourism potential through strategic investments and reforms.

'Under the guidance of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, we have focused on introducing new initiatives and strengthening existing tourism infrastructure to ensure long-term benefits for the people of the state,' Bali said.

He said that despite limited resources and ongoing renovation of key properties, HPTDC has recorded a sharp rise in turnover from around Rs 80 crore to approximately Rs 110 crore, crossing the Rs 100 crore mark for consecutive years.

Bali attributed the achievement to improved operational efficiency and the dedication of HPTDC employees.'This growth has come even as several major hotels were shut for renovation and modernisation. It reflects the commitment of our workforce and better management practices,' he added.

The Chairman said that many HPTDC properties, including heritage hotels, are undergoing phased renovations to remain competitive with private players. Three major hotels in Manali are currently being upgraded with financial assistance from the Asian Development Bank.

He also highlighted major upcoming projects, including Rs 45 crore renovation of the historic Hotel Holiday Home in Shimla, Rs 20 crore investment in Hotel Hamir, and Rs 35 crore development of a tourism complex at Jwala Ji.

In addition, tourism infrastructure projects such as heliports in Palampur and Hamirpur, and tourism complexes in Nadaun and Dehra are being developed with central assistance.

Bali described the expansion of Kangra airport as a 'game changer' for the state's tourism sector. He said the project, backed by an investment of around Rs 2,000 crore, will enable larger aircraft operations and significantly boost tourist inflow.

'The expansion will improve connectivity and bring thousands of tourists daily, benefiting hotels, transport operators, shopkeepers and local businesses,' he said.

He further announced a major Rs 180 crore tourism project at Nagrota Bagwan, which will feature a five-star hotel, a large convention and wedding facility, and an international-standard musical fountain with the Dhauladhar ranges as backdrop.

'This will position Himachal as a leading wedding destination, similar to Jaipur, Udaipur and Goa,' Bali said.

Among administrative reforms, Bali said HPTDC will soon set up a 24x7 call centre and a flying squad to monitor operations, ensure transparency in billing, and improve service quality.

He added that tie-ups with private travel platforms have also been initiated to enhance bookings and generate advance revenue, an initiative he described as a first-of-its-kind move for a government tourism corporation.

Bali reiterated that the government remains focused on sustainable tourism growth while ensuring economic opportunities for local communities.

'Our aim is not just to increase tourist numbers, but to create a tourism ecosystem that benefits every section, from hotel owners and taxi operators to small vendors,' he said. (ANI)