Boatmen Trained in Heritage and Safety to Redefine River Tourism in Uttar Pradesh
Ganga belt’s future lies in sustainable, secure, and culturally immersive tourism experiences, says Tourism Minister Jaiveer Singh
LUCKNOW,CHUNAR | 26 JULY 2025
In a transformative step to reimagine river tourism along the sacred Ganga belt, the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department, through its premier institution ManyawarKanshiram Institute of Tourism Management (MKITM), organized a specialized training session for local boatmen in Chunar on July 26.
The initiative marks a strategic shift in the government’s tourism policy, anchoring safety, heritage storytelling, and community empowerment at the core of river tourism development.
Tourism and Culture Minister Mr. Jaiveer Singh called this a part of the state’s broader vision to make the Ganga corridor a model for sustainable and culturally rooted tourism.
“Our boatmen are not just transporters; they are custodians of heritage and the first ambassadors of Uttar Pradesh’s hospitality. By equipping them with new-age skills like safety, communication, and heritage narration, we’re ensuring that every tourist receives a memorable, secure, and emotionally enriching experience,” he said.
The highlight of the session was a Heritage Storytelling Module, a first-of-its-kind intervention in the region. Boatmen were trained to narrate captivating stories from the rich history and mythology of Chunar, Mirzapur, and Varanasi, turning each boat ride into a cultural voyage. This not only enhances the tourist experience but also elevates the boatman’s role from a service provider to a heritage guide.
In addition to storytelling, the session included rigorous training in safety protocols, guest etiquette, and emergency response. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) conducted hands-on drills on rescue operations, first-aid, and water emergency management, significantly enhancing the preparedness of boatmen in crisis situations.
Participants expressed their appreciation for the initiative, noting that the training had not only improved their professional capabilities but also expanded their understanding of sustainable tourism practices. Sessions on soft skills and tourist interaction were particularly well-received, with boatmen stating that they now feel more confident in creating a positive and lasting impression on visitors.
A similar training was held in Mirzapur on July 25, where SDRF also provided comprehensive disaster management training. These initiatives are part of a larger, state-backed vision to transform the Ganga region into a beacon of eco-sensitive, culturally immersive, and community-driven tourism.
MKITM has emerged as a frontrunner in implementing ground-level, site-specific tourism training across Uttar Pradesh. By bridging local participation with global tourism standards, the institute is laying the foundation for a resilient and inclusive tourism ecosystem.
This initiative not only strengthens Uttar Pradesh’s tourism credentials at a national level but also sets a replicable model for heritage and river-based tourism in India. As the Ganga belt evolves into a symbol of safety, pride, and shared heritage, the UP government continues to place local communities at the heart of its tourism growth story.
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