The Consulate General of India in Shanghai and the India Tourism Office in Beijing organised an Incredible India Evening in Tandoor Restaurant in Shanghai on April 10 for the official launch of the ‘Visit India Year 2009 Scheme’ by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.

Speaking on the occasion, the Consul General of India, Mrs. Riva Ganguly Das welcomed the tour operators from China and India and encouraged them to take advantage of the ‘Visit India Year 2009 Scheme’ and encouraged further expansion of outbound tourism from Eastern China region to India. She said that India’s amazing diversity offers a traveler everything that one can hope for or want in a holiday. India’s dazzling landscapes and historical heritage is made more attractive by the added colour of its rich civilizational heritage, its varied culture, festivals and most of all, its people.

Director, India Tourism Office, Beijing Mr. S.S. Samad outlined the various steps taken by the Tourism Ministry in India to minimize the negative impact of the recent global economic meltdown on tourism from China to India during the current year. The “Visit India 2009” Scheme offers attractive incentives to foreign tourists, by way of value additions during the period April to December 2009. The three major Indian carries’ Air India, Jet Airways and Kingfisher Airlines are partners in the Scheme and will offer complimentary air passages for traveling companions.

The event saw an impressive gathering including Chinese tour operators, travel journalists, Indian tour operators and members of the Indian community. An Incredible India documentary was screened. Young artists performed Bollywood dances and demonstration of yoga was also given. A luck draw was held and the winners were given attractive prizes including complimentary return ticket by Air India.