Mahakumbh aims to boost tourism in Uttar Pradesh and create jobs for more than 45,000 families

The Yogi Adityanath government plans to take Uttar Pradesh’s tourism sector to the next level through a focused skill development initiative, with the upcoming Mahakumbh in Prayagraj expected to generate direct or indirect employment for over 45,000 families. This monumental event, scheduled for 2025, is expected to attract millions of pilgrims and tourists, creating significant demand for trained local service providers.

In an effort to prepare for this wave, extensive training programs are underway across Prayagraj. These programs are designed to upskill local vendors, boaters, street vendors and tour guides so that they are equipped to meet the needs of visitors with professionalism and customer-friendly service. By empowering these service providers, the government is not only supporting existing businesses, but also laying the foundation for new employment opportunities around religious tourism destinations, contributing to the region’s economic growth.

The Yogi government’s comprehensive tourism strategy took root with the launch of the Tourism Policy 2022, approved on November 16, 2022. This policy envisages a substantial investment inflow of Rs 20,000 crore and aims to generate 10 lakh jobs, boosting the position of Uttar Pradesh as a tourist friendly state. A key pillar of this strategy is connecting local service providers with targeted skills development programs, equipping them with essential service delivery and management skills. Highlighting the reach of the campaign, Regional Tourism Officer Aparajita Singh said training sessions have been launched for a wide range of tourist-oriented roles. From skippers and tour guides to street vendors, service providers are trained in hospitality, hygiene and communication skills to enhance the visitor experience. The government also promotes responsible tourism by sensitizing service providers to maintain a clean and hospitable environment at tourist locations. A notable initiative within this campaign focuses on skippers who navigate the rivers near religious sites. The Tourism Department is providing training to 2,000 skippers to broaden their skills, allowing them to perform a dual role as river guides. The initiative, undertaken in collaboration with the Manyavar Kanshiram Tourism Management Institute, has already trained 300 boaters, equipping them with the skills to enhance the tourism experience by sharing insights on the cultural and spiritual significance of the area. “We are committed to preparing a robust, skilled workforce for the Mahakumbh 2025,” Singh said. “Our goal is to support livelihoods while improving the quality of service to our visitors.” Training for tour guides is also progressing rapidly. Assistant Professor Prakhar Tiwari of Manyavar Kanshiram Tourism Management Institute, who oversees the programme, reported that seven batches of guides have completed the course, resulting in 420 well-trained guides ready to assist pilgrims and tourists.

The government’s efforts also extend to street vendors and taxi drivers. Recognizing the important role of street vendors in providing accessible goods to both locals and tourists, the Tourism Department has launched a training program that focuses on customer service skills and hygiene standards. So far, 600 street vendors and 600 taxi drivers in Prayagraj have registered, while 250 vendors and 120 drivers have already completed their training.

With the Mahakumbh acting as a catalyst, Uttar Pradesh’s tourism sector is undergoing a transformative phase, with skill development programs creating a wide range of employment opportunities for local youth. Singh estimates that more than 45,000 families will benefit from this initiative, which will secure income through tourism-related functions and promote a sustainable environment for the growth of industry around important religious sites.