Jaipur, Dec 10 (NationPress) Highlighting the necessity for a framework that acknowledges the emotional and cultural ties of Non-Resident Rajasthanis (NRRs), a plea was made for the Rajasthan government to implement a specific Social Investment Policy. This policy would incentivize efforts to safeguard ancestral havelis, bolster educational institutions, enhance healthcare facilities, preserve heritage sites, and support community projects, extending beyond mere industrial investments.

This request was voiced during the Pravasi Rajasthani Divas by Kolkata-based cultural advocate, author, and social worker, Sundeep Bhutoria. Invited by the Government of Rajasthan as a State Guest, he spoke during the session titled “From Roots to Routes: Transforming the NRRs into Tourism Ambassadors.”

Bhutoria emphasized that NRRs possess a profound emotional connection to their homeland, which is the driving force behind their frequent returns.

“We are not just a vote bank for the state government. We are the ambassadors of Rajasthan’s culture, tourism, and heritage, irrespective of our location,” he asserted, underscoring the global continuance of traditions such as wearing poshaks and safas.

He proposed the creation of a Public Private Partnership model involving companies, organizations, and individuals to operationalize tourism desks and information centers, many of which currently lack staff.

Reflecting on Rajasthan’s growing status as a filming location, Bhutoria noted that despite it being one of the most splendid shooting venues globally, it currently lacks a dedicated film studio.

While productions occur here, post-production teams often have to journey to cities like Mumbai.

He expressed optimism that the New Tourism Policy unveiled today will finally fulfill the long-overdue requirement for a dedicated film studio in Rajasthan.

The event saw the presence of several dignitaries, including the Minister of Culture, Government of India, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat; Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Bhajan Lal Sharma; Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister, Diya Kumari; Urban Development & Housing Minister, Jhabar Singh Kharra; Animal Husbandry Minister, Joraram Kumawat; Chairman of the Rajasthan Heritage Conservation and Promotion Authority, Omkar Singh Lakhawat; Managing Director of India Tourism Development Corporation, Mugdha Sinha; and Additional Chief Secretary for Tourism, Art, and Culture, Praveen Gupta.

Bhutoria has been an influential figure as the Secretary of the Kolkata Chapter of Rajasthan Foundation for over a decade. He is a vigorous promoter of cultural initiatives throughout India, particularly in Rajasthan and Jaipur.

His contributions extend to showcasing Indian art, literature, and culture internationally across Europe, the United States, and West Asia.

Furthermore, he is dedicated to conserving Indian folk arts and cultural heritage.