The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee presented the National Tourism Awards in various categories today (March 18, 2013) at a function at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.

Speaking on the occasion, the President welcomed the institution of the national tourism awards and said that it would give an impetus and encourage all players in the tourism sector. He said that new categories of awards would promote India as a year-round destination. The awards would also encourage States and Union Territories to develop effective mechanisms for maintaining cleanliness and safeguarding heritage spots, he added.

The President stressed on the importance of sustainable, "green” tourism and called upon host communities to be more conscious and proactive with regard to tourist destinations in their respective areas.

Among the dignitaries present on the occasion were Dr. K. Chiranjeevi, Minister of State for Tourism (Independent Charge) and Shri Parvez Dewan, Secretary (Tourism).