World Tourism Day celebrations begin at SHTM University of Jammu
JAMMU, September 26: School of Hospitality and Tourism Management (SHTM) in collaboration with Skill Incubation Innovation Entrepreneurship Development Centre (SIIEDC) University of Jammu organized an insightful event focussing on “Tourism Entrepreneurship: Prospects and Challenges” on the eve of World Tourism Day. Shri Vivekanand Rai IRS, Director, Jammu Tourism was the Chief Guest during the occasion and Prof. Rahul Gupta, Registrar University of Jammu was the Guest of Honour.
Shri Vivekanand Rai IRS, Director Jammu Tourism in his address shed light on the diverse avenues within the tourism industry that present promising opportunities for entrepreneurs. While addressing the students, he emphasized that they should come forward and exploit immense entrepreneurial opportunities that the tourism industry offers. From sustainable tourism ventures to technology-driven innovations, he highlighted the myriad ways entrepreneurs can contribute to the growth of the sector.
Professor Rahul Gupta, appreciated the efforts of SHTM and SIIEDC in putting together such a thoughtful event that will not only benefit students, but also stakeholders, and society at large. Professor Alka Sharma, Director, SIIEDC, emphasized the significance of innovation and creativity within the tourism industry, as well as the role of these events in fostering responsible entrepreneurial curiosity among young individuals. Earlier, Dr. Anil Gupta in his welcome address expressed that the event aims to bridge the gap between theory and practice, equipping aspiring entrepreneurs with the knowledge and inspiration they need to succeed.
The event also featured “Prayatan-pe-Charcha,” a stimulating panel discussion on tourism entrepreneurship. Ms. Sunaina Mehta JKAS, Joint Director of Jammu Tourism, served as the Guest of Honour. Distinguished speakers, including Mr. Ishaan Verma, Director of J&K Startups Association, Ms. Nishu Pandit, Director of Authentic Journeys India and Beyond, Mr. Maval Nagpal, Managing Director of Kaffberry Jammu, and Mr. Sonaad Gupta, Founder of Villagio Movement, discussed the numerous opportunities and challenges in the tourism and hospitality industry in the Jammu region.
Another highlight of the event was the Start-Up Fair, a competitive event that saw participation from students of various departments of the University of Jammu and local colleges..Prof. Varsha Mehta, Dean Faculty of Business Studies, University of Jammu was the guest of honour in the Fair. The event was judged by Ms. Rubal Sood, entrepreneur, Kitchen Moxie, Jammu, Mr. Aamir Farooq, MD Atlas events, Jammu, Chef Subhash Bhatt, Executive Chef, Country Inn and Suites by Radisson, Jammu.
In addition to discussions and competitions, the event featured “RELISH,: Skill Based Food Seminar presented by ARC, Hospitality Institute for the civil society. Dr.Suvidha Khanna, event secretary coordinated the event along with faculty members Dr. Poonam Sharma, Dr. Nikita Dogra, Dr. Priyanka Sharma, Dr. Rajesh Sharma, Honeyka Mahajan and Tapas Tandon.
(NOTE: PRESS RELEASE PUBLISHED AS RECEIVED)
