Union Minister for Tourism Subodh Kant Sahai today called upon the Tour Operators of South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation, SAARC countries to explore the possibility of tourism in the region. Addressing the SAARC tour operators conclave in New Delhi, he said that the SAARC region has immense growth potential which has not been fully utilized.

Highlighting the cultural diversity of the region, Mr Sahai said, it has the combination of scenic landscapes, natural beauty and ethnic multiplicity. These facts make the SAARC region a great tourist attraction. The Minister said that as per the World Tourism Organisation's report, the international tourist arrivals to Asia and the Pacific are projected to increase from 204 million in 2010 to 535 million by 2030.

Most of the new arrivals will be to the destinations in Asia in particular. Noting the recently held G- 20 Summit in Mexico's resolution, Mr Sahai said that it acknowledged tourism as the major sector for employment generation, particularly for the youth and women. The resolution also refers tourism as a tool for poverty reduction and economic growth.

Mr Sahai said, the government is planning to organize an International Buddhist Conclave in Varanasi in September this year with a view to showcasing and projecting Buddhist heritage of India. India has a rich ancient Buddhist Heritage with several important sites associated with the life of Lord Buddha.