Pune : Now, reading room and library facility at MTDC properties
Maharashtra, is known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, has become a popular tourist destination for travelers from all over the world. To enhance the positive effects of tourism and promote responsible tourism, Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) has announced plans to start reading rooms/libraries in tourist accommodations across the state.
Responsible tourism is a concept that aims to create awareness among all stakeholders about the importance of sustainable and ethical tourism practices. Along with promoting tourism, MTDC believes in nurturing cultural heritage and traditions. As part of this initiative, MTDC plans to increase the reading culture among tourists and the younger generation by providing access to books and information about Maharashtra’s history, culture, saints, revolutionaries, and other subjects in Hindi, English, and Marathi languages.
Mangalprabhat Lodha, Minister of Tourism, Skills, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Women and Child Development, Government of Maharashtra, emphasized that the aim is to make tourists’ stay in MTDC accommodations entertaining and memorable. The addition of libraries will provide tourists with opportunities to expand their knowledge and immerse themselves in the rich heritage of Maharashtra.
MTDC has already started libraries at regional levels and in some tourist accommodations, including Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar in Mahabaleshwar. Plans are underway to start reading rooms/libraries at other tourist accommodations, such as Lonar and Fardapur, in the near future. These libraries will offer a wide range of books and materials for tourists, including children and senior citizens, to indulge in reading and gain insights into Maharashtra’s culture and history.
Shraddha Joshi Sharma, Managing Director of MTDC, has directed all Senior/Regional Managers and Tourist Accommodation Managers to quickly identify suitable locations for starting libraries and ensure ample availability of books on various subjects. The initiative aligns with MTDC’s commitment to hospitality and responsible tourism, which also includes promoting local cuisine and reducing plastic pollution to keep the environment clean.
With these efforts, MTDC aims to enrich the tourism experience for visitors to Maharashtra and instill a love for reading and learning about the state’s rich heritage among tourists and the younger generation. Deepak Harane, Regional Manager of Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation, is leading the implementation of the reading room/library initiative in various tourist accommodations across the state.
Nividita Kelapure
