Three day National Conference on Silk Route Tourism : The Revival of Tributaries of Cultural and Archaeological Heritage sponsored by Ministry of Tourism, GOI,organized by School of Business Studies, commenced today at Central University of Jammu. The focus of the conference is to address various issues related to culture, heritage and tourism, not only in Silk route region but also in the global context. Prof. Devanand, Dean School of Business Studies apprised the audience regarding the conference, its theme and its importance.

Mr. Parvez Dewan, (IAS), Former Secretary Tourism, GOI in his inaugural address highlighted that Silk Route is not merely a caravan road but over the period of time it has emerged as a civilization in itself. He talked about the history of modern tourism and also the various categories of tourists. The keynote address was delivered by P. Stobdan (IFS), Former Indian Ambassador to Krygyztan. He applauded the role of Central University of Jammu for taking such initiatives. Talking about the current scenario,he stressed upon the importance of geopolitics. Mr. Saleem Beg, Former Director General Tourism, stressed upon the need of opening up of border as a prerequisite for the growth of peace.

Prof. Ashok Aima, VC CUJ in his presidential remarks highlighted upon the need of revival of Silk Route Tourism. He also apprised the audience about the various collaborations in form of 18 MOUs which the Central University of Jammu has signed till date for the growth and development of students and the society.

Earlier Dr. Jaya Bhasin, Head, Department of Tourism and Travel Management and HRM & OB welcomed the guests. She highlighted upon the history and importance of Silk Route for the world. She further informed that the three day event will be having three plenary sessions and seven technical sessions spread across thematic areas including discussion on issues, perspectives and marketing and economic aspects pertaining to Silk Route Tourism. The conference shall lead to road map for development of Silk Route Tourism.

The formal vote of thanks was presented by Prof. Lokesh Verma, Academic Coordinator, CUJ. Around 70 papers shall be presented during the three day event. The outcome of the conference will be published in the form of a book.

Later during the day, plenary discussion was held chaired by Mr. Saleem Beg, wherein eminent panelists viz Prof. Parikshit Singh Manhas, Director SHTM, JU, Prof. Manu Mittal , Centre for Silk Route Tourism,JNU, Prof. Inayat Zaidi, JMI, Mr. Sonam Wangchuk, President, Himalayan Cultural Heritage discussed the issues and linkages related to tourism across the dimensions of Silk Route and its tributaries.

The session was moderated by Prof. K. Prabhakar, eminent Professor from Chennai.This was followed by technical session wherein around ten researchers presented their research work in the area.