MOT shines in twin states

A lot of promotion and ground work is being done by India Tourism Hyderabad, across the two states of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, not only of central ministry initiatives but also locally. rom promoting Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav the focus is also to make sure that tour operators in the region go for MOT approval process during the lean period.

Nisha Verma

Sharing how Indiatourism offices have changed, Satarupa Datta, Assistant Director, India Tourism Hyderabad Office, elaborates, “In 1998, the offices used to bustle with life, because they were the information centres for tourists. When we started, we were trained to be hospitable, well-mannered, and presentable. Those trainings lasted for life and were very valuable.”

However, she says that since then, the direct information queries have reduced. “In the digital world, information has become more accessible. It’s a sea change with websites, apps, and Google. However, our information service still has some credibility. We still get a lot of requests digitally. There is also the number 1363, which is 24/7 information hotline in many languages. Today, anybody can apply for an approval and ask for any kind of scheme, “she elaborates.

Women in travel

Datta claims that tourism is a natural place for women. “Women are inherently hospitable and nurturing, which makes us naturals in this profession. I learnt a lot from so many women I met in my earlier days in the industry. It has been a very safe place for working women. We have had many association heads, director generals and additional director generals who are women. It’s the women who have been running this industry, “she claims.

Initiatives in twin states

She reveals that many of the MOT schemes are being implemented in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. “We should bring everyone into the fold of the MOT. Our aim is to standardise the service and to give Incredible India credibility to our customers. The Hyderabad office has reached out to all tour operators in AP and Telangana to apply for MOT approval. We have been pushing this during the lean period because it was a 43 pages document and they can devote time now, and it’s not so difficult. Now, more applications are being submitted, “she insists.

Another thing they are promoting is the Incredible India Tourist Facilitator Certification Course (IITFC ). “We are encouraging both the staff and women to attend the course. Also, it is a requirement for applying for MOT recognition. Many tour operators and their staff are going for this during this period. We are also promoting Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav and Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat to create a feeling of patriotism and unity. We are involving the youth in the region too. Since everything is open, we hope to start physical programmes soon, “she shares.Datta also informs that the MOT has taken up many projects in Telangana and AP. “There is an eco-tourism project, a tribal project, along with heritage projects. Recently, two PRASHAD schemes have been sanctioned, one in Bhadrachalam and one in Jogulamba, “she informs.

Connectivity

Datta applauded the connectivity and roads in Telangana and AP. “Local transport like trains and buses is available. For those opting for a road trip, there are fantastic places to travel. The roads are beautifully done and very well maintained with roadside facilities. The eco-tourism circuit, tribal circuit, and adventure activities are not too far from Hyderabad. Ramappa Temple, a world heritage site, takes only four hours from Hyderabad. Telangana tourism has got accommodation facilities right on the Ramappa Lake. One can also visit Laknavaram, which is a beautiful reservoir, and one can indulge in adventure tourism activities here. “Even the Statue of Equity, is not too far from the airport and is ideal for transit passengers,” she highlights.

Working with trade

After the first wave, informs Datta, “We conducted our first roadshow where travel agents and tour operators from the Buddhist circuit—Varanasi, UP, and Bihar—came to Hyderabad. The response was good from both sides since we also have Buddhist products. We even conducted Fam tours and took AP and Telangana tour operators to Chhattisgarh, which has amazing tribal products and has great connectivity. The delegates were mesmerised and lots of people are travelling from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana to Chhattisgarh with their help.”