Nagpur District Can Be Developed as a Tourism Hub—Kumar Ashirwad

Nagpur, May 11: Neighboring Madhya Pradesh has made significant strides in wildlife tourism. Similarly, Nagpur district can also be transformed into a dedicated tourism district, as it is home to the Pench Tiger Reserve, Ramtek Fort, and numerous other tourist attractions. Nagpur District Collector Kumar Ashirwad today expressed his intention to boost the tourism industry and attract investment to the region through these avenues.
Speaking at an interactive session organized by the Press Club, Nagpur, Ashirwad engaged in a candid discussion with journalists. He further emphasized that, alongside providing tourism amenities, the marketing of tourist destinations is equally crucial. In rural areas, tourism can be expanded to include forest safaris and jungle adventure activities. This endeavor can be executed more effectively through private sector initiatives than solely through government channels; however, this will necessitate certain policy changes. The growth of the tourism industry will, in turn, contribute to increased employment opportunities. Tourism development, he noted, is a long-term planning process.
**Investment and Industries Are on the Way!**
Ashirwad stated that a substantial volume of investment and new industries are currently poised to enter the district. These include sectors such as chemicals, pharmaceuticals, automotive mechanics, and engineering. Care is being taken to ensure that local issues do not pose obstacles to their establishment. Industries typically face challenges related to land acquisition and water supply; these hurdles will be resolved proactively to create a conducive environment for industrial growth and investment. Over the next two and a half months, he plans to engage with people from various sectors to gain a comprehensive understanding of the district's issues, including the concerns of common citizens and farmers.
**Nagpur is "Very Hot"**
Ashirwad remarked, "I arrived in Nagpur after having served in Delhi and other locations. Nagpur is truly *garam* (hot)!" Given the prevailing high temperatures, several villages are currently facing water shortages. Consequently, preparations have begun to work on two fronts simultaneously: undertaking repairs of water pumps and borewells in affected areas, and making necessary arrangements in anticipation of the upcoming monsoon season. SIR at 65 percent...
Ashirwad spoke at length regarding the issue of the SIR (Stock Inventory Ratio). He further stated that this figure represents the preliminary SIR; since taking charge, he has successfully raised it from 35 percent to 65 percent. He noted that the gas supply has been doubled, a measure that has effectively eliminated queues at all gas agencies, with the exception of three specific agencies. He acknowledged that the remaining issues stem from difficulties in distribution, and efforts are currently underway to resolve them. He also provided candid and detailed responses to journalists' inquiries concerning various topics, including cases involving explosives, the sale of uncertified seeds, and the operations of agricultural supply centers. Press Club President Pradeepkumar Maitra introduced the District Collector to the gathering. Present on the dais during the event were Brahma Tripathi, Ranjit Deshmukh, Sunny Shende, and others.