Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat graced the WION Iconic Tourism Summit &amp; Awards 2026 in New Delhi on Wednesday as the chief guest and in his address pointed out the misconceptions about travel in India, especially when it comes to solo women travellers, and insisted that isolated incidents should not be allowed to define the experience of millions of tourists visiting and travelling across the country.&nbsp;The minister said that the perception fails to account for the sheer scale of travel in India. Citing billions of domestic trips across the country, he questioned how many complaints involving solo women travellers had been recorded in comparison with that volume, while adding that even a single incident should not happen.&nbsp;<h2>Defends India’s travel safety record, cites advisories for Italy, US, and UK</h2>&nbsp;Shekhawat said the government and states are taking steps to make travel safer and comfortable and have set up dedicated tourist police stations in several states.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Union Minister compared travel advisories issued for destinations like Italy, the US, England and Paris with the way safety concerns are discussed in India.The advisories warn travellers about protecting passports and valuables, avoiding isolated areas after dark and questioned why such warnings do not automatically lead to those countries being broadly described as unsafe.&nbsp;&nbsp;Shekhawat also invoked India’s deep-rooted philosophy of “Atithi Devo Bhava”, saying visitor safety and hospitality remain central.&nbsp;<h2>‘Delhi is changing’: Kapil Mishra invites industry to partner in capital’s transformation</h2>&nbsp;Delhi Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra, who was the guest of honour, said Delhi is undergoing a transformation and invited the tourism industry to become a partner in shaping the capital’s future as a global destination. He said the government is looking at ways to create new experiences for visitors and announced that Pitampura Haat would be transformed into a PM Unity Hub, while the Garden of Five Senses is being revamped to make it more appealing.Mishra invited stakeholders from the tourism industry to work with the government on the next phase of Delhi’s tourism growth.&nbsp;Mishra also highlighted Delhi’s diverse historical legacy, and said memorials would be developed to honour figures like Anangpal Tomar and the Jat community.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Delhi is changing,” Mishra said, urging the tourism industry to be part of that transformation and “become a partner” in building the capital’s tourism ecosystem.&nbsp;The WION Iconic Tourism Summit and Awards 2026, presented by VFS Global in association with Red Hat Communications, in New Delhi on Sep 23 brought together key voices from across the tourism ecosystem and the discussions panned around sector’s future, emerging opportunities, evolving trends and the challenges that could shape its growth in the years ahead.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Slovakia ambassador springs surprise with reply in chaste Hindi&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Robert Maxian, ambassador of Slovakia to India, switched to Hindi at the summit and said that India is his second home.&nbsp;When asked if he could speak Hindi, the Slovak ambassador responded warmly, saying, “Bharat mere liye doosra ghar jaisa hai (India is a second home for me).”&nbsp;Kevin Kelly, Ambassador of Ireland to India, said India has now become a priority market for Tourism Ireland, which has set up an office in Mumbai last year to tap into the growing interest from Indian travellers.Diplomats from Nicaragua, Greece and Sri Lanka also made their points on tourism for their countries as emerging and enduring destinations for Indian travellers, each highlighting unique offerings, from untouched nature and volcanoes to island-hopping and shared civilizational ties.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Year’s most talked-about film, Hanuman Ansh, boosts spiritual tourism</h2>&nbsp;Hanuman Ansh, one of the year’s most talked-about films about Neem Karoro Baba, has significantly boosted the profile of the sacred Kainchi Dham shrine in Uttarakhand.&nbsp;&nbsp;The film’s director, Dr Vishal Chaturvedi, spoke about the movie, foreseeing its success, the overwhelming response it has received and the boost it has given to spiritual tourism. Besides, footfall at other places linked to Neem Karoli Baba has almost increased three-fold after the film’s release.

Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat pointed out that travel advisories for Italy, the US, UK and Paris warn travellers about protecting passports and valuables, avoiding isolated areas after dark and questioned why these warnings do not make those countries unsafe.

Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat graced the WION Iconic Tourism Summit & Awards 2026 in New Delhi on Wednesday as the chief guest and in his address pointed out the misconceptions about travel in India, especially when it comes to solo women travellers, and insisted that isolated incidents should not be allowed to define the experience of millions of tourists visiting and travelling across the country. The minister said that the perception fails to account for the sheer scale of travel in India. Citing billions of domestic trips across the country, he questioned how many complaints involving solo women travellers had been recorded in comparison with that volume, while adding that even a single incident should not happen. Defends India’s travel safety record, cites advisories for Italy, US, and UK Shekhawat said the government and states are taking steps to make travel safer and comfortable and have set up dedicated tourist police stations in several states. The Union Minister compared travel advisories issued for destinations like Italy, the US, England and Paris with the way safety concerns are discussed in India. The advisories warn travellers about protecting passports and valuables, avoiding isolated areas after dark and questioned why such warnings do not automatically lead to those countries being broadly described as unsafe. Shekhawat also invoked India’s deep-rooted philosophy of “Atithi Devo Bhava”, saying visitor safety and hospitality remain central. ‘Delhi is changing’: Kapil Mishra invites industry to partner in capital’s transformation Delhi Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra, who was the guest of honour, said Delhi is undergoing a transformation and invited the tourism industry to become a partner in shaping the capital’s future as a global destination. He said the government is looking at ways to create new experiences for visitors and announced that Pitampura Haat would be transformed into a PM Unity Hub, while the Garden of Five Senses is being revamped to make it more appealing. Mishra invited stakeholders from the tourism industry to work with the government on the next phase of Delhi’s tourism growth. Mishra also highlighted Delhi’s diverse historical legacy, and said memorials would be developed to honour figures like Anangpal Tomar and the Jat community. “Delhi is changing,” Mishra said, urging the tourism industry to be part of that transformation and “become a partner” in building the capital’s tourism ecosystem. The WION Iconic Tourism Summit and Awards 2026, presented by VFS Global in association with Red Hat Communications, in New Delhi on Sep 23 brought together key voices from across the tourism ecosystem and the discussions panned around sector’s future, emerging opportunities, evolving trends and the challenges that could shape its growth in the years ahead. Slovakia ambassador springs surprise with reply in chaste Hindi Robert Maxian, ambassador of Slovakia to India, switched to Hindi at the summit and said that India is his second home. When asked if he could speak Hindi, the Slovak ambassador responded warmly, saying, “Bharat mere liye doosra ghar jaisa hai (India is a second home for me).” Kevin Kelly, Ambassador of Ireland to India, said India has now become a priority market for Tourism Ireland, which has set up an office in Mumbai last year to tap into the growing interest from Indian travellers. Diplomats from Nicaragua, Greece and Sri Lanka also made their points on tourism for their countries as emerging and enduring destinations for Indian travellers, each highlighting unique offerings, from untouched nature and volcanoes to island-hopping and shared civilizational ties. Year’s most talked-about film, Hanuman Ansh, boosts spiritual tourism Hanuman Ansh, one of the year’s most talked-about films about Neem Karoro Baba, has significantly boosted the profile of the sacred Kainchi Dham shrine in Uttarakhand. The film’s director, Dr Vishal Chaturvedi, spoke about the movie, foreseeing its success, the overwhelming response it has received and the boost it has given to spiritual tourism. Besides, footfall at other places linked to Neem Karoli Baba has almost increased three-fold after the film’s release.

Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat pointed out that travel advisories for Italy, the US, UK and Paris warn travellers about protecting passports and valuables, avoiding isolated areas after dark and questioned why these warnings do not make those countries unsafe.

WION Iconic Tourism Summit 2026 busts travel safety myth, highlights spiritual tourism boost to Kainchi Dham

Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said that a lot of misconceptions were being spread about travel in India, especially when it comes to solo women travellers. Comparing travel in India with travel to European nations like Italy, the India tourism minister acknowledged that “even one incident of misbehaviour with a woman traveller is like a smear on our face (a matter of disgrace)” but said that across the nation, steps are being taken to make travel a more pleasant experience for everyone, including foreigners and tourists. He insisted that isolated incidents should not be allowed to define the experience of millions of tourists visiting and travelling across the country.<h2>How safe is India for solo women travellers? Gajendra Shekhawat answers</h2>Speaking at the WION Iconic Tourism Summit &amp; Awards 2026 in New Delhi on Wednesday (Sep 23), Shekhawat recalled a question put to him by a journalist at an earlier event: “India is not safe for solo women travellers. When will it become safe?”The minister said that such a perception fails to account for the sheer scale of travel in India. Referring to the billions of domestic trips made across the country, he questioned how many complaints involving solo women travellers had been recorded in comparison with that volume.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/charaiveti-charaiveti-gajendra-shekhawat-invokes-vedas-at-wion-iconic-tourism-summit-says-india-on-course-to-become-developed-nation-by-2047-1790142464304">‘Charaiveti, Charaiveti’: Gajendra Shekhawat invokes Vedas at WION Iconic Tourism Summit, says India on course to become developed nation by 2047</a><h2>‘Even one incident is a black mark’</h2>At the same time, Shekhawat acknowledged that any incident involving a woman traveller is serious and can affect India's image as a destination. “If out of our 4.3 billion trips, an incident happens with even a single traveller, and I say responsibly that a single incident is a black mark on our face, it should not happen,” he said.Shekhawat said the government and states had been taking steps to make travel safer and more comfortable, including setting up tourist police and dedicated tourist police stations in several states. “We have worked on improving our infrastructure,” he said, adding that even a single incident remained unfortunate and that efforts must continue to prevent such cases.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-iconic-tourism-summit-value-based-sustainable-tourism-is-need-of-the-hour-1790152534971/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-iconic-tourism-summit-value-based-sustainable-tourism-is-need-of-the-hour-1790152534971/embed</a><h2>Shekhawat questions media coverage</h2>Shekhawat also criticised the way incidents involving tourists are sometimes covered, arguing that intense coverage of a single case can create a broader negative impression of the country. He said that when one such incident occurs, Indian media can focus on it continuously for days and questioned whether that ends up harming the tourism sector itself.“But when a single incident happens, the entire media in India covers nothing else for 48 hours straight. Who are we harming? Ultimately, we are causing gross damage to our own country, working to permanently damage our own sector,” he said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wion-iconic-tourism-summit-awards-2026-union-minister-shekhawat-says-experiential-travel-the-next-big-trend-1790147146651">WION Iconic Tourism Summit &amp; Awards 2026: Union Minister Shekhawat says 'experiential travel' the next big trend</a><h2>Comparing India with global destinations</h2>Shekhawat compared travel advisories issued for destinations such as Italy, the US, England and Paris with the way safety concerns are discussed in India.He cited advisories that warn travellers abroad about protecting passports and valuables or avoiding isolated areas after dark and questioned why such warnings do not automatically lead to those countries being broadly described as unsafe. "I asked her (the journalist), 'Have you ever been to Italy?'...When you go there, you receive travel advisories. Right in those advisories, it is written: keep your purse, your passport, your camera, and your mobile hidden inside; otherwise, someone will snatch them. What kind of advisories do we get in the US? That you should not walk down narrow paths after dark. What is the condition of England? What is the condition of Paris? No one talks about that."The minister's argument was not that India has no safety concerns. Rather, he said the response should distinguish between individual incidents and the experience of the much larger number of people who travel across the country without reporting such problems.He also invoked India's traditional tourism philosophy of “Atithi Devo Bhava”, saying visitor safety and hospitality remain central to how the country should approach tourism.

Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat has addressed one of the most debated questions around India’s tourism image: how safe is the country for solo women travellers? Here's what he said at WION's Iconic Tourism Summit and Awards 2026.

Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said that a lot of misconceptions were being spread about travel in India, especially when it comes to solo women travellers. Comparing travel in India with travel to European nations like Italy, the India tourism minister acknowledged that “even one incident of misbehaviour with a woman traveller is like a smear on our face (a matter of disgrace)” but said that across the nation, steps are being taken to make travel a more pleasant experience for everyone, including foreigners and tourists. He insisted that isolated incidents should not be allowed to define the experience of millions of tourists visiting and travelling across the country. How safe is India for solo women travellers? Gajendra Shekhawat answers Speaking at the WION Iconic Tourism Summit & Awards 2026 in New Delhi on Wednesday (Sep 23), Shekhawat recalled a question put to him by a journalist at an earlier event: “India is not safe for solo women travellers. When will it become safe?” The minister said that such a perception fails to account for the sheer scale of travel in India. Referring to the billions of domestic trips made across the country, he questioned how many complaints involving solo women travellers had been recorded in comparison with that volume. Also read | ‘Charaiveti, Charaiveti’: Gajendra Shekhawat invokes Vedas at WION Iconic Tourism Summit, says India on course to become developed nation by 2047 ‘Even one incident is a black mark’ At the same time, Shekhawat acknowledged that any incident involving a woman traveller is serious and can affect India's image as a destination. “If out of our 4.3 billion trips, an incident happens with even a single traveller, and I say responsibly that a single incident is a black mark on our face, it should not happen,” he said. Shekhawat said the government and states had been taking steps to make travel safer and more comfortable, including setting up tourist police and dedicated tourist police stations in several states. “We have worked on improving our infrastructure,” he said, adding that even a single incident remained unfortunate and that efforts must continue to prevent such cases. https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-iconic-tourism-summit-value-based-sustainable-tourism-is-need-of-the-hour-1790152534971/embed Shekhawat questions media coverage Shekhawat also criticised the way incidents involving tourists are sometimes covered, arguing that intense coverage of a single case can create a broader negative impression of the country. He said that when one such incident occurs, Indian media can focus on it continuously for days and questioned whether that ends up harming the tourism sector itself. “But when a single incident happens, the entire media in India covers nothing else for 48 hours straight. Who are we harming? Ultimately, we are causing gross damage to our own country, working to permanently damage our own sector,” he said. Also read | WION Iconic Tourism Summit & Awards 2026: Union Minister Shekhawat says 'experiential travel' the next big trend Comparing India with global destinations Shekhawat compared travel advisories issued for destinations such as Italy, the US, England and Paris with the way safety concerns are discussed in India. He cited advisories that warn travellers abroad about protecting passports and valuables or avoiding isolated areas after dark and questioned why such warnings do not automatically lead to those countries being broadly described as unsafe. "I asked her (the journalist), 'Have you ever been to Italy?'...When you go there, you receive travel advisories. Right in those advisories, it is written: keep your purse, your passport, your camera, and your mobile hidden inside; otherwise, someone will snatch them. What kind of advisories do we get in the US? That you should not walk down narrow paths after dark. What is the condition of England? What is the condition of Paris? No one talks about that." The minister's argument was not that India has no safety concerns. Rather, he said the response should distinguish between individual incidents and the experience of the much larger number of people who travel across the country without reporting such problems. He also invoked India's traditional tourism philosophy of “Atithi Devo Bhava”, saying visitor safety and hospitality remain central to how the country should approach tourism.

Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat has addressed one of the most debated questions around India’s tourism image: how safe is the country for solo women travellers? Here's what he said at WION's Iconic Tourism Summit and Awards 2026.

WION Iconic Tourism Summit & Awards 2026: How safe is India for solo women travellers? Shekhawat pushes back against ‘misconceptions’

Tourism is evolving beyond traditional sightseeing, with travellers increasingly looking for meaningful, personalised experiences. At WION’s Iconic Tourism Summit, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat explained how AI could transform the way people plan their journeys, while emphasising that technology cannot replace the human touch at the heart of travel.


WION Iconic Tourism Summit: 'Moving Towards Making India Developed Nation by 2047'

Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said experiential travel is emerging as the next major trend in tourism, with travellers increasingly seeking meaningful experiences and seamless journeys rather than conventional sightseeing.Speaking at the WION Iconic Tourism Summit &amp; Awards 2026 in New Delhi on Wednesday (Sep 23), Shekhawat said tourists today want a more “experiential” and wholesome journey, while stressing that tourism growth must also remain sustainable and value-driven.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wion-iconic-tourism-summit-awards-2026-how-safe-is-india-for-solo-women-travellers-shekhawat-pushes-back-against-misconceptions-1790151316942">WION Iconic Tourism Summit &amp; Awards 2026: How safe is India for solo women travellers? Shekhawat pushes back against ‘misconceptions’</a><h2>The next big trend in tourism</h2>“Experiential travel is the next big trend,” Shekhawat said, pointing to changing traveller preferences and the growing influence of technology in deciding where and how people travel. He said travellers are increasingly using social media and artificial intelligence to discover new destinations but argued that technology cannot entirely replace the human element in travel.“Human touch can never be replaced by AI,” Shekhawat said.The minister also highlighted the importance of the experience tourists receive once they arrive at a destination. He said even a single negative experience for a foreign visitor can create wider negative perceptions. “A foreign tourist having one bad experience creates negative vibes,” he said, stressing that every stakeholder in the tourism ecosystem needs to act with sincerity and honesty.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-iconic-tourism-summit-value-based-sustainable-tourism-is-need-of-the-hour-1790152534971/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-iconic-tourism-summit-value-based-sustainable-tourism-is-need-of-the-hour-1790152534971/embed</a><h2>Tourism as an instrument of peace</h2>Shekhawat also described tourism as more than an economic activity, calling it a “vital instrument for peace diplomacy”.He said India's approach to tourism should draw from the country's traditional belief of “Atithi Devo Bhava”, or the idea that a guest is divine. “We need to reflect on our ancient belief: Guest is divine,” he said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/charaiveti-charaiveti-gajendra-shekhawat-invokes-vedas-at-wion-iconic-tourism-summit-says-india-on-course-to-become-developed-nation-by-2047-1790142464304">‘Charaiveti, Charaiveti’: Gajendra Shekhawat invokes Vedas at WION Iconic Tourism Summit, says India on course to become developed nation by 2047</a>Shekhawat said the focus should ultimately be on value-based tourism that is sustainable, suggesting that the next phase of tourism growth must balance traveller expectations with responsible and lasting development.The WION Iconic Tourism Summit &amp; Awards 2026, presented by VFS Global in association with Red Hat Communications, brings together voices from government, diplomacy, aviation, hospitality and technology to examine the forces reshaping global travel, including mobility, tourism infrastructure, technology and changing traveller expectations.

Tourism is moving beyond conventional sightseeing, with travellers increasingly seeking meaningful and personalised experiences. At WION’s Iconic Tourism Summit, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat explained why AI may transform travel planning but cannot replace the human touch.

Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said experiential travel is emerging as the next major trend in tourism, with travellers increasingly seeking meaningful experiences and seamless journeys rather than conventional sightseeing. Speaking at the WION Iconic Tourism Summit & Awards 2026 in New Delhi on Wednesday (Sep 23), Shekhawat said tourists today want a more “experiential” and wholesome journey, while stressing that tourism growth must also remain sustainable and value-driven. Also read | WION Iconic Tourism Summit & Awards 2026: How safe is India for solo women travellers? Shekhawat pushes back against ‘misconceptions’ The next big trend in tourism “Experiential travel is the next big trend,” Shekhawat said, pointing to changing traveller preferences and the growing influence of technology in deciding where and how people travel. He said travellers are increasingly using social media and artificial intelligence to discover new destinations but argued that technology cannot entirely replace the human element in travel. “Human touch can never be replaced by AI,” Shekhawat said. The minister also highlighted the importance of the experience tourists receive once they arrive at a destination. He said even a single negative experience for a foreign visitor can create wider negative perceptions. “A foreign tourist having one bad experience creates negative vibes,” he said, stressing that every stakeholder in the tourism ecosystem needs to act with sincerity and honesty. https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-iconic-tourism-summit-value-based-sustainable-tourism-is-need-of-the-hour-1790152534971/embed Tourism as an instrument of peace Shekhawat also described tourism as more than an economic activity, calling it a “vital instrument for peace diplomacy”. He said India's approach to tourism should draw from the country's traditional belief of “Atithi Devo Bhava”, or the idea that a guest is divine. “We need to reflect on our ancient belief: Guest is divine,” he said. Also read | ‘Charaiveti, Charaiveti’: Gajendra Shekhawat invokes Vedas at WION Iconic Tourism Summit, says India on course to become developed nation by 2047 Shekhawat said the focus should ultimately be on value-based tourism that is sustainable, suggesting that the next phase of tourism growth must balance traveller expectations with responsible and lasting development. The WION Iconic Tourism Summit & Awards 2026, presented by VFS Global in association with Red Hat Communications, brings together voices from government, diplomacy, aviation, hospitality and technology to examine the forces reshaping global travel, including mobility, tourism infrastructure, technology and changing traveller expectations.

Tourism is moving beyond conventional sightseeing, with travellers increasingly seeking meaningful and personalised experiences. At WION’s Iconic Tourism Summit, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat explained why AI may transform travel planning but cannot replace the human touch.

WION Iconic Tourism Summit & Awards 2026: Union Minister Shekhawat says 'experiential travel' the next big trend

Indian Union Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, while speaking at WION's Iconic Tourism Summit and Awards 2026, said that India was well on its way to becoming a developed nation by 2047."India's first quarter growth stunned the world," he noted while presenting the keynote address at the WION Summit. "Despite geopolitical turbulence, India stands firm," he added.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wion-iconic-tourism-summit-awards-2026-union-minister-shekhawat-says-experiential-travel-the-next-big-trend-1790147146651">WION Iconic Tourism Summit &amp; Awards 2026: Union Minister Shekhawat says 'experiential travel' the next big trend</a><h2>'Charaiveti, Charaiveti': India on course to Viksit Bharat 2047 goal</h2>Drawing from India's cultural heritage, the Vedas, Shekhawat noted that they tell us to keep moving, keep going. "Charaiveti, Charaiveti...our sages told us the wisdom of moving in pursuit of knowledge and new opportunities."“Change is eternal, but in modern times the pace of transformation is rapid,” he said, adding that “PM Modi has laid the roadmap for rapid strides for a developed nation by 2047." These themes form the backdrop to the WION Iconic Tourism Summit &amp; Awards 2026, being held in New Delhi on September 23. The summit brings together government representatives, diplomats and leaders from tourism, aviation, hospitality and technology to examine issues ranging from visas and mobility to tourism infrastructure, cultural diplomacy and travel technology. Diplomats from nearly 20 countries are expected to participate, giving the discussions a broader international dimension. Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wion-iconic-tourism-summit-awards-2026-how-safe-is-india-for-solo-women-travellers-shekhawat-pushes-back-against-misconceptions-1790151316942">WION Iconic Tourism Summit &amp; Awards 2026: How safe is India for solo women travellers? Shekhawat pushes back against ‘misconceptions’</a><h2>WION's Iconic Tourism Summit and Awards 2026</h2>The summit will explore some of the most pressing issues shaping global mobility today, from visa policy and border management to biometric travel, digital transformation, and the growing role of artificial intelligence in enhancing traveller experiences. The event will conclude with the Iconic Awards 2026, recognising outstanding individuals and organisations that have made significant contributions to the travel and tourism industry.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-iconic-tourism-summit-moving-towards-making-india-developed-nation-by-2047-1790151635415/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-iconic-tourism-summit-moving-towards-making-india-developed-nation-by-2047-1790151635415/embed</a>The summit will also see the participation of ambassadors from Argentina, Greece, Suriname, Ireland, Slovakia, Cyprus, South Africa, Sri Lanka and Seychelles, along with prominent leaders from the tourism, aviation and hospitality sectors.Part of the WION World Conferences series, the event at ITC Maurya, New Delhi, is presented by VFS Global, the global leader in trusted technology services enabling secure international mobility, which this year marks 25 years of facilitating seamless cross-border travel. The event is being organised in association with Red Hat Communications.

Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat invoked the ancient mantra “Charaiveti, Charaiveti” to describe India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047, while highlighting economic growth, geopolitical challenges and rapid global transformation.

Indian Union Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, while speaking at WION's Iconic Tourism Summit and Awards 2026, said that India was well on its way to becoming a developed nation by 2047. "India's first quarter growth stunned the world," he noted while presenting the keynote address at the WION Summit. "Despite geopolitical turbulence, India stands firm," he added. Also read | WION Iconic Tourism Summit & Awards 2026: Union Minister Shekhawat says 'experiential travel' the next big trend 'Charaiveti, Charaiveti': India on course to Viksit Bharat 2047 goal Drawing from India's cultural heritage, the Vedas, Shekhawat noted that they tell us to keep moving, keep going. "Charaiveti, Charaiveti...our sages told us the wisdom of moving in pursuit of knowledge and new opportunities." “Change is eternal, but in modern times the pace of transformation is rapid,” he said, adding that “PM Modi has laid the roadmap for rapid strides for a developed nation by 2047." These themes form the backdrop to the WION Iconic Tourism Summit & Awards 2026, being held in New Delhi on September 23. The summit brings together government representatives, diplomats and leaders from tourism, aviation, hospitality and technology to examine issues ranging from visas and mobility to tourism infrastructure, cultural diplomacy and travel technology. Diplomats from nearly 20 countries are expected to participate, giving the discussions a broader international dimension. Also read | WION Iconic Tourism Summit & Awards 2026: How safe is India for solo women travellers? Shekhawat pushes back against ‘misconceptions’ WION's Iconic Tourism Summit and Awards 2026 The summit will explore some of the most pressing issues shaping global mobility today, from visa policy and border management to biometric travel, digital transformation, and the growing role of artificial intelligence in enhancing traveller experiences. The event will conclude with the Iconic Awards 2026, recognising outstanding individuals and organisations that have made significant contributions to the travel and tourism industry. https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-iconic-tourism-summit-moving-towards-making-india-developed-nation-by-2047-1790151635415/embed The summit will also see the participation of ambassadors from Argentina, Greece, Suriname, Ireland, Slovakia, Cyprus, South Africa, Sri Lanka and Seychelles, along with prominent leaders from the tourism, aviation and hospitality sectors. Part of the WION World Conferences series, the event at ITC Maurya, New Delhi, is presented by VFS Global, the global leader in trusted technology services enabling secure international mobility, which this year marks 25 years of facilitating seamless cross-border travel. The event is being organised in association with Red Hat Communications.

Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat invoked the ancient mantra “Charaiveti, Charaiveti” to describe India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047, while highlighting economic growth, geopolitical challenges and rapid global transformation.

‘Charaiveti, Charaiveti’: Gajendra Shekhawat invokes Vedas at WION Iconic Tourism Summit, says India on course to become developed nation by 2047

On WION World Pulse, India’s Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat shares his perspective on global leadership, sustainability, and the shifting balance of power in today’s world. Emphasising that the future will not be shaped by power alone, he highlights the role of cooperation, innovation, and responsible governance in addressing global challenges. Watch the full conversation for key insights into geopolitics, development, and India’s vision on the world stage

WION World Pulse | Shekhawat: Future Won't Be Shaped by Power Alone

At WION World Pulse, Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said India, as the world’s largest democracy, represents a remarkable experience of scale, diversity and continuity. He highlighted India’s unique civilisational and democratic depth in the global context.

WION World Pulse: India’s Culture Minister on scale, diversity & continuity of India

WION World Pulse: Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat speaks on scale, diversity & continuity of India

On the occasion of World Skydiving Day on Saturday (July 13), Indian Tourism Minister Gajendra Shekhawat skydived from an aircraft. According to media reports, the dive took place at Skyhigh, India's only civilian skydiving drop zone at Narnaul airstrip, Haryana.

On the occasion of World Skydiving Day on Saturday (July 13), Indian Tourism Minister Gajendra Shekhawat skydived from an aircraft. According to media reports, the dive took place at Skyhigh, India's only civilian skydiving drop zone at Narnaul airstrip, Haryana. Tourism Minister Shekhawat was getting lessons in skydiving before he took off and jumped from an aircraft. The video of the jump, which has gone viral on social media, showed the instructor adjusting Shekhawat's neck as the two were about to jump. Here's a look at the video: #WATCH | Narnaul, Haryana: Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat does skydiving on World Skydiving Day. (Source: Sky High India) pic.twitter.com/KrLGeE5UdY — ANI (@ANI) July 13, 2024 × 'Super excited' Following the thrilling experience, Shekhawat told reporters that he was super excited and enjoyed it. "Today is a thrilling day for me but, more importantly, it is an important day for the world and the world of aerosports, because World Skydiving Day is being celebrated for the first time," Shekhawat said. "Thousands of Indians used to enjoy these sports in Dubai, Singapore, Thailand, New Zealand and other places and they will now get to experience it here. This will also boost tourism. I have flagged off India's first skydiving aircraft and I wish great success to the team," the tourism minister added. He also pointed out that the government would like to encourage skydiving in more places in India, including the states of Madhya Pradesh and Goa. About World Skydiving Day The World Skydiving Day on July 13 began this year and the annual celebration would repeat each year on the second Saturday in July. According to the initiative's website, World Skydiving Day involves the participation of six skydiving associations, including the United States Parachute Association, the Australian Parachute Federation, and British Skydiving. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian minister skydives from plane to mark World Skydiving Day. Watch

With a number of events lined up across the nation, India will be celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi today.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has extended its Gandhi Sankalp Yatra by a period of three months, according to a circular issued to the party leaders. As per the circular sent to the leaders, the Yatra will now be a 120-day exercise and will end on January 31, 2020, instead of October. Earlier, it was scheduled to be held between October 2 and 31.

Under this, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-was-temporary-from-the-beginning-says-bjp-working-president-jp-nadda-252950">BJP </a>is planning to propagate Gandhi's ideals and principles of non-violence, Swaraj and simplicity to mark his 150th birth anniversary. Posters, banners, and kits for the programs to be held during the yatra will be directly sent to the state units from the party headquarters.

According to the circular, Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/modi-true-global-gatekeeper-253059">Narendra Modi</a> will kick-off this programme from Gujarat, simultaneously, with the other top leaders from the party who will start it from the BJP headquarters in New Delhi. All the party's Lok Sabha MPs have been instructed to be in their respective constituencies on October 2 for the start of the program.

Prime Minister Modi will pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. Later in the day, he will also visit Sabarmati Ashram and participate in Swachh Bharat Diwas 2019 program, according to a post on the official Twitter handle of BJP.

Earlier, while talking to ANI, Union Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said that India has almost achieved the open defecation free (ODF) target and hoped that Prime Minister will declare India open defecation free today.

On Tuesday, President Ram Nath Kovind said that the people of India have paid homage to the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, by taking up the Swachh Bharat Mission as a movement.

"By taking up the 'Swachh Bharat Mission' as a movement, the people of India have paid homage to the father of the nation. Our nation's emphasis on inclusive growth, transparency, and honesty in public life, health-care support to the poor and farmers and effective utilization of water resources is in keeping with his thoughts," Kovind said.

BJP president Amit Shah will launch the ruling party's 'Gandhi Sankalp Yatra' in New Delhi.

On the other hand, Congress will mark the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi today by taking out "padayatra" across the country with senior leaders including Rahul Gandhi taking part in the march in New Delhi.

The march in the national capital will start from Delhi Pradesh Congress office and culminate at Rajghat, the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi. Later, Congress President Sonia Gandhi will administer an oath to leaders and workers "to redeem Gandhi, Gandhism and Gandhi's India".

Besides this, there are several events lined up to take place across the country.

To mark the special occasion, AIM, NITI Aayog's Atal Tinkering Labs (ATL) and UNICEF India, including Generation Unlimited, have launched 'The Gandhian Challenge'. This innovation challenge provides a platform for every child across India to ideate innovative solutions for a sustainable India of their dreams, using Gandhi's principles.

The winners of 'The Gandhian Challenge' will be awarded in New Delhi by NITI Aayog's Atal Innovation Mission and UNICEF on the occasion of Children's Day in November.

Several photo exhibitions have been organized in different cities to mark Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary.

Vistara is celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi in a unique way with customers aboard select flights on October 2.

They will be invited to be part of the airline's initiative 'BE THE CHANGE @ 30,000 FEET' and write about a social change that they feel passionately about on a simple postcard, as per a company release.

With a number of events lined up across the nation, India will be celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi today. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has extended its Gandhi Sankalp Yatra by a period of three months, according to a circular issued to the party leaders.

With a number of events lined up across the nation, India will be celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi today. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has extended its Gandhi Sankalp Yatra by a period of three months, according to a circular issued to the party leaders. As per the circular sent to the leaders, the Yatra will now be a 120-day exercise and will end on January 31, 2020, instead of October. Earlier, it was scheduled to be held between October 2 and 31. Under this, the BJP is planning to propagate Gandhi's ideals and principles of non-violence, Swaraj and simplicity to mark his 150th birth anniversary. Posters, banners, and kits for the programs to be held during the yatra will be directly sent to the state units from the party headquarters. According to the circular, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will kick-off this programme from Gujarat, simultaneously, with the other top leaders from the party who will start it from the BJP headquarters in New Delhi. All the party's Lok Sabha MPs have been instructed to be in their respective constituencies on October 2 for the start of the program. Prime Minister Modi will pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. Later in the day, he will also visit Sabarmati Ashram and participate in Swachh Bharat Diwas 2019 program, according to a post on the official Twitter handle of BJP. Earlier, while talking to ANI, Union Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said that India has almost achieved the open defecation free (ODF) target and hoped that Prime Minister will declare India open defecation free today. On Tuesday, President Ram Nath Kovind said that the people of India have paid homage to the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, by taking up the Swachh Bharat Mission as a movement. "By taking up the 'Swachh Bharat Mission' as a movement, the people of India have paid homage to the father of the nation. Our nation's emphasis on inclusive growth, transparency, and honesty in public life, health-care support to the poor and farmers and effective utilization of water resources is in keeping with his thoughts," Kovind said. BJP president Amit Shah will launch the ruling party's 'Gandhi Sankalp Yatra' in New Delhi. On the other hand, Congress will mark the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi today by taking out "padayatra" across the country with senior leaders including Rahul Gandhi taking part in the march in New Delhi. The march in the national capital will start from Delhi Pradesh Congress office and culminate at Rajghat, the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi. Later, Congress President Sonia Gandhi will administer an oath to leaders and workers "to redeem Gandhi, Gandhism and Gandhi's India". Besides this, there are several events lined up to take place across the country. To mark the special occasion, AIM, NITI Aayog's Atal Tinkering Labs (ATL) and UNICEF India, including Generation Unlimited, have launched 'The Gandhian Challenge'. This innovation challenge provides a platform for every child across India to ideate innovative solutions for a sustainable India of their dreams, using Gandhi's principles. The winners of 'The Gandhian Challenge' will be awarded in New Delhi by NITI Aayog's Atal Innovation Mission and UNICEF on the occasion of Children's Day in November. Several photo exhibitions have been organized in different cities to mark Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary. Vistara is celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi in a unique way with customers aboard select flights on October 2. They will be invited to be part of the airline's initiative 'BE THE CHANGE @ 30,000 FEET' and write about a social change that they feel passionately about on a simple postcard, as per a company release.

India celebrates 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi today

Gujarat ranks as top state in 2017-18 in the Composite Water Management Index (CWMI 2.0) report released on Friday with 80 per cent of states assessed on the Index over the last three years showing improved water management scores, an official release said.

The report was released on Friday by Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Niti Aayog Vice Chairman Rajiv Kumar.

CWMI 2.0 ranks various states for the reference year 2017-18 as against the base year 2016-17.

"Gujarat (continues) to hold on to its rank one in the reference year (2017-18), followed by Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Goa, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu," the release said.

It said that among northeastern and Himalayan states, Himachal Pradesh has been adjudged first in 2017-18 followed by Uttarakhand, Tripura and Assam.

The release said that Union Territories have first time submitted their data and Puducherry has been declared as the top ranker.

"In terms of incremental change in index (over 2016-17 level), Haryana holds number one position among general states and Uttarakhand amongst northeastern and Himalayan states," it said.

"On an average, 80 per cent of the states assessed on the Index over the last three years have improved their water management scores, with an average improvement of +5.2 points," the release said.

It said that scientific management of water is increasingly recognised as being vital to India's growth and ecosystem sustainability.

Niti Aayog first launched and conceptualised the Composite Water Management Index in 2018 as a tool to instil a sense of cooperative and competitive federalism among the states. It was a first-ever attempt at creating a pan-India set of metrics that measured different dimensions of water management and use across the lifecycle of water.

"The report was widely acknowledged and provided actionable guidance to states on where they were doing well absolutely and relatively and what they needed to focus on to secure their water future," the release said.

The CWMI, it said, was an important tool to assess and improve the performance of states and Union Territories in the efficient management of water resources.

Gujarat ranks as top state in 2017-18 in the Composite Water Management Index (CWMI 2.0) report released on Friday with 80 per cent of states assessed on the Index over the last three years showing improved water management scores, an official release said.

Gujarat ranks as top state in 2017-18 in the Composite Water Management Index (CWMI 2.0) report released on Friday with 80 per cent of states assessed on the Index over the last three years showing improved water management scores, an official release said. The report was released on Friday by Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Niti Aayog Vice Chairman Rajiv Kumar. CWMI 2.0 ranks various states for the reference year 2017-18 as against the base year 2016-17. "Gujarat (continues) to hold on to its rank one in the reference year (2017-18), followed by Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Goa, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu," the release said. It said that among northeastern and Himalayan states, Himachal Pradesh has been adjudged first in 2017-18 followed by Uttarakhand, Tripura and Assam. The release said that Union Territories have first time submitted their data and Puducherry has been declared as the top ranker. "In terms of incremental change in index (over 2016-17 level), Haryana holds number one position among general states and Uttarakhand amongst northeastern and Himalayan states," it said. "On an average, 80 per cent of the states assessed on the Index over the last three years have improved their water management scores, with an average improvement of +5.2 points," the release said. It said that scientific management of water is increasingly recognised as being vital to India's growth and ecosystem sustainability. Niti Aayog first launched and conceptualised the Composite Water Management Index in 2018 as a tool to instil a sense of cooperative and competitive federalism among the states. It was a first-ever attempt at creating a pan-India set of metrics that measured different dimensions of water management and use across the lifecycle of water. "The report was widely acknowledged and provided actionable guidance to states on where they were doing well absolutely and relatively and what they needed to focus on to secure their water future," the release said. The CWMI, it said, was an important tool to assess and improve the performance of states and Union Territories in the efficient management of water resources.

Gujarat ranked first in composite water management index

A bill which seeks to provide uniform safety procedures for specified dams in the country was introduced in the Lok Sabha on Monday.

The Dam Safety Bill, 2019 was introduced by Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat who said that 92 per cent of the dams in the country were inter-state and there was need for such a legislation.

The introduction of the bill was opposed by several opposition members who said that water and land are state subjects and the bill had been brought without proper consultation with states.

The bill entails the creation of the National Dam Safety Authority as a regulatory body, which will implement the policy, guidelines, and standards on dam safety in the country.

State committee on dam safety will be set up by the state governments. Every state will also set up a State Dam Safety Organisation.

A national committee on dam safety will be set up to evolve safety policies and recommend necessary regulations.

The bill seeks to address all issues concerning dam safety including regular inspection of dams, emergency action plan, adequate repair and maintenance funds, and instrumentation and the safety manuals.

The bill lays onus of dam safety on the dam owner and provides for penal provisions for commission and omission of certain acts.

Leader of the Congress party in Lok Sabha, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said that the bill focuses on structural and not on operational safety.

A bill which seeks to provide uniform safety procedures for specified dams in the country was introduced in the Lok Sabha on Monday. The Dam Safety Bill, 2019 was introduced by Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat who said that 92 per cent of the dams in the country were inter-state and there was need for such a legislation.

A bill which seeks to provide uniform safety procedures for specified dams in the country was introduced in the Lok Sabha on Monday. The Dam Safety Bill, 2019 was introduced by Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat who said that 92 per cent of the dams in the country were inter-state and there was need for such a legislation. The introduction of the bill was opposed by several opposition members who said that water and land are state subjects and the bill had been brought without proper consultation with states. The bill entails the creation of the National Dam Safety Authority as a regulatory body, which will implement the policy, guidelines, and standards on dam safety in the country. State committee on dam safety will be set up by the state governments. Every state will also set up a State Dam Safety Organisation. A national committee on dam safety will be set up to evolve safety policies and recommend necessary regulations. The bill seeks to address all issues concerning dam safety including regular inspection of dams, emergency action plan, adequate repair and maintenance funds, and instrumentation and the safety manuals. The bill lays onus of dam safety on the dam owner and provides for penal provisions for commission and omission of certain acts. Leader of the Congress party in Lok Sabha, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said that the bill focuses on structural and not on operational safety.

Bill on dam safety introduced in Lok Sabha

The government is planning to conduct a competition among states to encourage water conservation, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The states that will perform better will get more funds from the Centre, he said. The plan was discussed at BJP`s parliamentary party meeting held at the Parliament on Tuesday morning.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Joshi said: "There will be a healthy competition among the states. The states that will perform well in terms of water conservation will get more funds."Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat gave a presentation to the BJP MPs on how they can contribute towards water conservation in their respective constituencies.

Joshi also said that the government will promote the competition at block-level to ensure that "every drop of water is utilised".

The government`s plan to ensure drinking water to every household was also discussed at the meeting.

Joshi said that Home Minister Amit Shah briefed MPs about the celebration of 150 years of Mahatma Gandhi`s birth anniversary and on tree plantation at booth level.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not speak at the meeting, he said.

The government is planning to conduct a competition among states to encourage water conservation, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said on Tuesday. The states that will perform better will get more funds from the Centre, he said.

The government is planning to conduct a competition among states to encourage water conservation, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said on Tuesday. The states that will perform better will get more funds from the Centre, he said. The plan was discussed at BJP`s parliamentary party meeting held at the Parliament on Tuesday morning. Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Joshi said: "There will be a healthy competition among the states. The states that will perform well in terms of water conservation will get more funds."Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat gave a presentation to the BJP MPs on how they can contribute towards water conservation in their respective constituencies. Joshi also said that the government will promote the competition at block-level to ensure that "every drop of water is utilised". The government`s plan to ensure drinking water to every household was also discussed at the meeting. Joshi said that Home Minister Amit Shah briefed MPs about the celebration of 150 years of Mahatma Gandhi`s birth anniversary and on tree plantation at booth level. Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not speak at the meeting, he said.

Government planning competition among states to encourage water conservation

In the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-20-rajnath-singh-is-defence-minister-amit-shah-home-nirmala-sitharaman-gets-finace-223084">portfolio allocation</a>, which was announced on Friday, a new ministry, Jal Shakti, has been introduced, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s poll promise of providing safe drinking water to people.

Member of Parliament from Jodhpur, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gajendra-singh-shekhawat-jodhpur-mp-who-gave-gehlot-the-blues-222945">Gajendra Singh Shekhawat</a>, who defeated the son of Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot, will head the Jal Shakti Ministry. It has been created by reorganising the earlier Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, which was held by Nitin Gadkari in the previous government.

Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation has also been added to it. During an election rally in Tamil Nadu, Modi last month had assured that if voted back to power, his government would ensure the establishment of a separate Jal Shakti Ministry.

"After May 23, when the Modi Government will once again assume office, there will be a separate Ministry for Jal Shakti. This Ministry will cater to many aspects relating to water," Prime Minister Modi had said.

"The NDA govt had devoted a lot of attention to Water resources. There will be a separate ministry for Jal Shakti to ensure clean water and top class irrigation water facilities for the farmers," he added.BJP's manifesto had also promised to set up a unified Ministry of Water to end the water woes in the country.

From April to July every year, the water situation in at least eight states in the country is grim. The Centre recently issued a drought advisory to Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu, asking them to use water judiciously in the coming weeks as water storage in dams dropped to a critical level.

With almost all of rural India depending on monsoon rain for agriculture and domestic purpose, there is a desperate need for water management on a war footing.&nbsp;

Watch: Modi 2.0 cabinet portfolios announced: Nirmala gets Finance, Amit Shah takes Home

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In the portfolio allocation, which was announced on Friday, a new ministry, Jal Shakti, has been introduced, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s poll promise of providing safe drinking water to people.

In the portfolio allocation, which was announced on Friday, a new ministry, Jal Shakti, has been introduced, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s poll promise of providing safe drinking water to people. Member of Parliament from Jodhpur, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, who defeated the son of Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot, will head the Jal Shakti Ministry. It has been created by reorganising the earlier Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, which was held by Nitin Gadkari in the previous government. Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation has also been added to it. During an election rally in Tamil Nadu, Modi last month had assured that if voted back to power, his government would ensure the establishment of a separate Jal Shakti Ministry. "After May 23, when the Modi Government will once again assume office, there will be a separate Ministry for Jal Shakti. This Ministry will cater to many aspects relating to water," Prime Minister Modi had said. "The NDA govt had devoted a lot of attention to Water resources. There will be a separate ministry for Jal Shakti to ensure clean water and top class irrigation water facilities for the farmers," he added.BJP's manifesto had also promised to set up a unified Ministry of Water to end the water woes in the country. From April to July every year, the water situation in at least eight states in the country is grim. The Centre recently issued a drought advisory to Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu, asking them to use water judiciously in the coming weeks as water storage in dams dropped to a critical level. With almost all of rural India depending on monsoon rain for agriculture and domestic purpose, there is a desperate need for water management on a war footing. Watch: Modi 2.0 cabinet portfolios announced: Nirmala gets Finance, Amit Shah takes Home ×

As promised, PM Narendra Modi forms Jal Shakti ministry

After defeating Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's son from the high-stakes Jodhpur seat, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat appeared set to get his second stint in the Union ministry.

Shekhawat was first elected to the Lok Sabha from Jodhpur in 2014 and was made the minister of state for agriculture and farmers' welfare in September 2017. On Thursday, he was sworn-in as a cabinet minister.

As an MP, Shekhawat contributed to the development of the civil airport of Jodhpur city, which is also known as the 'blue city', and expansion of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences.

The 51-year-old had defeated Ashok Gehlot's son Vaibhav Gehlot in Jodhpur by over 2.7 lakh votes. The chief minister had represented the&nbsp; 
constituency five times since 1980.

"This election is about government versus workers and common people. It is an election between the CM's son and a common man's son," Shekhawat had told PTI during the election campaign.

Known for his oratory skills and popular in his constituency, Shekhawat is often fondly referred to as "Gajju banna".

The two-time MP had strained relations with former chief minister Vasundhara Raje. Shekhawat was once in the running for the post of the BJP's state president. But, amid strong opposition from Raje, he lost out to Madan Lal Saini.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader, however, was appointed as the convener of the election committee for the assembly election.

Shekhawat made his debut in politics as the president of the Jai Narain Vyas University student union in 1992. He remained closely associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh in the region, especially in the border areas of Barmer and Jaisalmer.&nbsp;

After defeating Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's son from the high-stakes Jodhpur seat, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat appeared set to get his second stint in the Union ministry.

After defeating Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's son from the high-stakes Jodhpur seat, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat appeared set to get his second stint in the Union ministry. Shekhawat was first elected to the Lok Sabha from Jodhpur in 2014 and was made the minister of state for agriculture and farmers' welfare in September 2017. On Thursday, he was sworn-in as a cabinet minister. As an MP, Shekhawat contributed to the development of the civil airport of Jodhpur city, which is also known as the 'blue city', and expansion of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences. The 51-year-old had defeated Ashok Gehlot's son Vaibhav Gehlot in Jodhpur by over 2.7 lakh votes. The chief minister had represented the constituency five times since 1980. "This election is about government versus workers and common people. It is an election between the CM's son and a common man's son," Shekhawat had told PTI during the election campaign. Known for his oratory skills and popular in his constituency, Shekhawat is often fondly referred to as "Gajju banna". The two-time MP had strained relations with former chief minister Vasundhara Raje. Shekhawat was once in the running for the post of the BJP's state president. But, amid strong opposition from Raje, he lost out to Madan Lal Saini. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader, however, was appointed as the convener of the election committee for the assembly election. Shekhawat made his debut in politics as the president of the Jai Narain Vyas University student union in 1992. He remained closely associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh in the region, especially in the border areas of Barmer and Jaisalmer.

Gajendra Singh Shekhawat: Jodhpur MP who gave Gehlot the 'blues'

Ahead of ticket distribution in poll-bound Rajasthan, Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on Tuesday accused the Congress of selling election tickets for money.

"Naam bade kaam khote, ticket ke liye lete hai daam mote (Big names involved in lowly deeds. They charge hefty sums for election tickets)," Shekhawat said at a press conference in Jaipur.

The Congress, however, rubbished the allegations, with its state unit in-charge Sachin Pilot blaming opponents for conspiring against the party.

"The allegations of discrimination in adding the names of candidates are baseless. All office bearers are working actively and doing hard work. The allegations related to ticket distribution in the media are baseless," he told reporters.

Briefing about the BJP's door-to-door campaign, Union Minister of State for Agriculture Shekhawat said party workers had communicated the BJP's views at 42,688 out of the total 51,844 booths during its "Booth Mahasampark Abhiyan" and reached out to nearly 70 lakh families.

He said that the party would hold direct talks with the people across the state from November 8 to 11.

Ahead of ticket distribution in poll-bound Rajasthan, Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on Tuesday accused the Congress of selling election tickets for money.

Ahead of ticket distribution in poll-bound Rajasthan, Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on Tuesday accused the Congress of selling election tickets for money. "Naam bade kaam khote, ticket ke liye lete hai daam mote (Big names involved in lowly deeds. They charge hefty sums for election tickets)," Shekhawat said at a press conference in Jaipur. The Congress, however, rubbished the allegations, with its state unit in-charge Sachin Pilot blaming opponents for conspiring against the party. "The allegations of discrimination in adding the names of candidates are baseless. All office bearers are working actively and doing hard work. The allegations related to ticket distribution in the media are baseless," he told reporters. Briefing about the BJP's door-to-door campaign, Union Minister of State for Agriculture Shekhawat said party workers had communicated the BJP's views at 42,688 out of the total 51,844 booths during its "Booth Mahasampark Abhiyan" and reached out to nearly 70 lakh families. He said that the party would hold direct talks with the people across the state from November 8 to 11.

Rajasthan elections: Union minister Shekhawat accuses Congress of selling election tickets

Senior BJP leader Gajendra Singh Shekhawat Saturday said the feedback of party workers would play a crucial role in selection of candidates for the assembly elections in Rajasthan.

Shekhawat, who is heading the party's election management committee in the state, said the party's parliamentary committee will decide the final candidates. He said his committee was tasked to prepare a feedback report on winnable candidates.

"The party workers' opinion and feedback will be considered before finalising the tickets," the union minister of state for agriculture told reporters here.

He said the party has stated that the elections will be fought under the leadership of Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje.

When asked whether sitting MPs would contest the elections, Shekhawat said if the party directed so he or any other MP would contest the polls.

Speaking on the Ram temple issue, Shekhawat said the issue was related to public sentiment and that the party was committed to construct the temple but the Supreme Court's decision would be most important.

Senior BJP leader Gajendra Singh Shekhawat Saturday said the feedback of party workers would play a crucial role in selection of candidates for the assembly elections in Rajasthan.

Senior BJP leader Gajendra Singh Shekhawat Saturday said the feedback of party workers would play a crucial role in selection of candidates for the assembly elections in Rajasthan. Shekhawat, who is heading the party's election management committee in the state, said the party's parliamentary committee will decide the final candidates. He said his committee was tasked to prepare a feedback report on winnable candidates. "The party workers' opinion and feedback will be considered before finalising the tickets," the union minister of state for agriculture told reporters here. He said the party has stated that the elections will be fought under the leadership of Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje. When asked whether sitting MPs would contest the elections, Shekhawat said if the party directed so he or any other MP would contest the polls. Speaking on the Ram temple issue, Shekhawat said the issue was related to public sentiment and that the party was committed to construct the temple but the Supreme Court's decision would be most important.

Party workers' feedback crucial in selection of candidates for Rajasthan polls: Senior BJP leader

Nine new ministers will be inducted into the Cabinet today, reports ANI.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FLASH?src=hash">#FLASH</a>: Nine new ministers will be inducted into cabinet tomorrow
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/904006339189284866">September 2, 2017</a></blockquote>
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The nine new ministers are Shiv Pratap Shukla from UP, Ashwini Kumar Choubey and RK Singh from Bihar, Virendra Kumar from Madhya Pradesh, Anantkumar Hedge from Karnataka, the former IFS officer Hardeep Singh Puri, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat from Rajasthan, and Satya Pal Singh and Alphons Kannanthaman from Kerala.&nbsp;

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Have always fulfilled responsibilities the party leadership gave me. Thank PM, Amit Shah&amp;senior leaders:Virendra Kumar, BJP <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CabinetResuffle?src=hash">#CabinetResuffle</a> <a href="https://t.co/zsHjp8irBN">pic.twitter.com/zsHjp8irBN</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/904019149977935874">September 2, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Agar shaamil hote toh zyaada achha hota, Bihar ke liye achha hota: Kaushalendra Kumar,JDU MP on JDU leaders <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CabinetResuffle?src=hash">#CabinetResuffle</a> <a href="https://t.co/P3FZkZKVZS">pic.twitter.com/P3FZkZKVZS</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/904017198510817280">September 2, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-talk-of-jdu-joining-union-cabinet-nitish-kumar-19798" target="_blank">Also read:&nbsp;No talks of JD(U) joining Union Cabinet: Nitish Kumar</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modis-new-team-has-been-rated-on-a-performance-excel-sheet-report-19781" target="_blank">Also read: How will PM Modi choose </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modis-new-team-has-been-rated-on-a-performance-excel-sheet-report-19781" target="_blank">new</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modis-new-team-has-been-rated-on-a-performance-excel-sheet-report-19781" target="_blank"> council of ministers? An excel sheet</a>

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I have not been officially informed, but whatever is party and PM&#39;s decision I am ready for it:Satyapal Singh.BJP on being inducted tomorrow <a href="https://t.co/j9IcnVW8b9">pic.twitter.com/j9IcnVW8b9</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/904012242546331651">September 2, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CabinetReshuffle?src=hash">#CabinetReshuffle</a> BJP MP Satyapal Singh to take oath tomorrow; Visuals of celebration at his house in Delhi. <a href="https://t.co/32pFDYOuoo">pic.twitter.com/32pFDYOuoo</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/904013432898195456">September 2, 2017</a></blockquote>
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The Cabinet reshuffle is expected to take place on Sunday at 10 am

Nine new ministers will be inducted into the Cabinet today, reports ANI. #FLASH: Nine new ministers will be inducted into cabinet tomorrow — ANI (@ANI) September 2, 2017 × The nine new ministers are Shiv Pratap Shukla from UP, Ashwini Kumar Choubey and RK Singh from Bihar, Virendra Kumar from Madhya Pradesh, Anantkumar Hedge from Karnataka, the former IFS officer Hardeep Singh Puri, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat from Rajasthan, and Satya Pal Singh and Alphons Kannanthaman from Kerala. Have always fulfilled responsibilities the party leadership gave me. Thank PM, Amit Shah&senior leaders:Virendra Kumar, BJP #CabinetResuffle pic.twitter.com/zsHjp8irBN — ANI (@ANI) September 2, 2017 × Agar shaamil hote toh zyaada achha hota, Bihar ke liye achha hota: Kaushalendra Kumar,JDU MP on JDU leaders #CabinetResuffle pic.twitter.com/P3FZkZKVZS — ANI (@ANI) September 2, 2017 × Also read: No talks of JD(U) joining Union Cabinet: Nitish Kumar Also read: How will PM Modi choose new council of ministers? An excel sheet I have not been officially informed, but whatever is party and PM's decision I am ready for it:Satyapal Singh.BJP on being inducted tomorrow pic.twitter.com/j9IcnVW8b9 — ANI (@ANI) September 2, 2017 × #CabinetReshuffle BJP MP Satyapal Singh to take oath tomorrow; Visuals of celebration at his house in Delhi. pic.twitter.com/32pFDYOuoo — ANI (@ANI) September 2, 2017 ×

Cabinet reshuffle: 9 new ministers to be inducted today, say sources

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