Union Minister for Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, along with Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Kavinder Gupta, graced the 33rd edition of the South Asia Travel & Tourism Exchange (SATTE), India’s premier travel and tourism exposition, held at Yashobhoomi, Dwarka, New Delhi, on February 25. The event witnessed the presence of distinguished delegates, industry leaders, and tour and travel operators from across India and abroad.

Among the prominent personalities present were Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, Informa Markets India; Anita Mendiratta, Advisor to the Secretary-General of UN Tourism (formerly UNWTO); Suman Billa, Additional Secretary & Director General, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India; Subhash Goyal, Chairman, STIC Travel Group; Dr Upasana Arora, Managing Director, Yashoda Super Specialty Hospitals; and Pasang Dorjee Sona, Tourism Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, among others.

Speaking on the occasion, the Union Tourism Minister said that tourism, which had long remained on the margins of national policymaking, has now moved to the centre of India’s development agenda under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He emphasised that tourism is not merely about travel but a powerful engine for livelihood generation, entrepreneurship, and inclusive economic growth.

Highlighting that the future belongs to nations that successfully blend culture with commerce, he noted that global travellers today seek authentic experiences, wellness, heritage, and meaningful human connections.

He further stated that the government is transforming the sector through a comprehensive national approach focused on heritage conservation, environmental sustainability, and community empowerment, with the vision of establishing India as an experience-led destination and a global leader in responsible tourism.

Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor highlighted the unprecedented development witnessed in the Union Territory of Ladakh. He noted that world-class road infrastructure has strengthened connectivity from Leh to remote border areas, enhancing accessibility and boosting tourism potential.

He also referred to the rapid progress of the Zoji La Tunnel, which will ensure all-weather connectivity to Ladakh and further accelerate tourism growth.

Describing Ladakh as home to several world-renowned tourist destinations known for their natural beauty, adventure, and spiritual heritage, he listed key attractions such as Pangong Lake, famous for its changing blue hues; Nubra Valley, known for its sand dunes and double-humped camels; Leh, the historic capital; and Khardung La, one of the highest motorable passes in the world.

Other major attractions include Magnetic Hill, Tso Moriri, Hemis Monastery, Shanti Stupa, Zanskar Valley, Lamayuru Monastery, Drass, Aryan Valley, and Hanle, which hosts the Indian Astronomical Observatory with the MACE Telescope.

Terming Ladakh a fast-emerging global tourism destination, the Lieutenant Governor pointed to its pristine landscapes, spiritual heritage, and adventure tourism appeal. He said the administration has undertaken several initiatives to promote year-round tourism, including fixing dates for UT-level festivals, participation in national and international travel marts, the launch of a new tourism logo, and the organisation of familiarisation (FAM) tours.

He added that steps are being taken to simplify registration processes for hotels and travel operators through an online portal, while environmental sustainability is being prioritised through support for sewage treatment infrastructure. Inviting tour and travel operators to prominently feature Ladakh in their packages, he assured full support from the administration to ensure that every visitor leaves with a safe, memorable, and enriching experience.

Concluding his address, the Lieutenant Governor invoked the popular line associated with Amitabh Bachchan—“Kuch Din Toh Guzariye Gujarat Mein”—and, in the same spirit, invited travellers to explore Ladakh, saying, “Kuch Din Toh Aaiyein Ladakh Mein,” encouraging all to experience the region’s breathtaking beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality.

Later, the Lieutenant Governor inaugurated the Ladakh Pavilion and interacted with tourism stakeholders. Around 2,000 exhibitors from India and abroad are participating in the 33rd edition of SATTE 2026 at the Yashobhoomi International Exhibition Centre, with representatives from 60 countries taking part in B2B meetings.