iLEAD Celebrates World Tourism Day in Presence of the Australian Consul General Ms. Rowan Anisworth
Kolkata: On the occasion of World Tourism Day, iLEAD, organized a remarkable event centred around the theme of green and sustainable tourism. The event was graced by the presence of distinguished guests, Ms. Rowan Anisworth (Australian Consul-General in Kolkata) and Ms. Sumana Banerjee (Project Manager for UK Research and Innovation-Global Challenges Research Fund).
The event commenced with a vibrant Ganesh Vandana, the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, and the felicitation of the esteemed guests. Mr. Pradip Chopra, the Chairman of iLEAD, extended a warm welcome to both the guests and attendees, delivering an insightful speech. The distinguished guests, in turn, shared their valuable perspectives on the tourism industry and the crucial role of sustainability within it.
Mr. Pradip Chopra underscored the significance of sustainable tourism in the contemporary world, shedding light on India’s rich history and his own views on the tourism sector.
Ms. Rowan Anisworth noted that nearly 90% of tourists in Australia now seek sustainable experiences during their visits and remarked, “The tourism industry contributes to climate change”. She advocated for the principles of “reduce, refuse, reuse, and recycling” as key drivers toward sustainability. Additionally, Ms. Anisworth expressed her profound appreciation for Kolkata, citing its culture, heritage, architecture, cuisine, and the warm reception she received during her visit.
Ms. Sumana Banerjee shared invaluable insights on how travellers can become more environmentally conscious to safeguard our planet for future generations.
The event was further enriched by the presence of students from M.C. Kejriwal Vidyapeeth and Jodhpur Girls School, alongside iLEAD students, who added a vibrant dimension to the proceedings. Various competitions, including Model Making, Rangoli Making, Quiz, and Reel Making, were organized, showcasing the students’ enthusiasm and creativity. The event also witnessed cultural program featuring dance performances and a fashion show that celebrated the diverse cultures of different countries. The event culminated in a prize distribution ceremony to honor the winners and runners-up of the competitions.