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Patel’s Legacy Honoured in London

The Unity Award Presented to The Rt. Hon. Dame Priti Patel DBE MP by His Excellency Vikram Doraiswami for her commitment to unity and support for Sardar Patel’s values.

The Sardar Patel Memorial Society UK, in collaboration with the High Commission of India, celebrated Rashtriya Ekta Diwas and the 150th Birth Anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the High Commission of India in London.

The gathering was a full house, drawing dignitaries and attendees together to honour Sardar Patel’s legacy as a founding father of a unified India.

Shadow Foreign Secretary Priti Patel DBE MP delivered the keynote speech highlighting Sardar Patel’s ideals of unity, integrity, and resilience. She highlighted the relevance of Sardar Patel’s vision in today’s world, encouraging everyone to embrace harmony and uphold the spirit of unity that he championed.

Lord Rami Ranger FRSA, Chairman of the Sardar Patel Memorial Society UK

Lord Rami Ranger FRSA, Chairman of the Sardar Patel Memorial Society UK, addressing the guests, emphasised the critical importance of unity and the lasting influence of Sardar Patel’s life and legacy. His speech reminded attendees of Sardar Patel’s role in shaping a united India and urged everyone to carry forward the message of unity and harmony.

The event was further enriched by the presence and remarks of Vikram Doraiswami, the High Commissioner of India to the UK. He highlighted Sardar Patel’s significance in India’s history and shared the High Commission’s commitment to celebrating the 150th Birth Anniversary of Sardar Patel throughout the year.

The Rt Hon Dame Priti Patel DBE MP, Shadow Foreign Secretary

The commemoration received messages from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Home Minister Amit Shah, adding to the event’s prestige and underscoring the global reverence for Sardar Patel’s contributions to India and the world.

The celebration concluded with the presentation of the Unity Award to Dame Priti Patel by High Commissioner Doraiswami. This special recognition honoured Dame Priti Patel’s commitment to unity and support for Sardar Patel’s values.

His Excellency Vikram Doraiswami, High Commissioner of India

The Executive Committee members of the Sardar Patel Memorial Society UK – CB Patel, Jitu Bhai Patel, Sumant Rai Desai, Deepak Patel, Vin Vara and Hirdesh Gupta – put in tremendous effort to make this event a great success. Thanks to their dedication, we were able to gather a wonderful audience to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

Krishna Pujara, Secretary General of the Sardar Patel Memorial Society UK, expressed deep gratitude for the overwhelming support shown by attendees, dignitaries, and partners. “We are honoured to commemorate Sardar Patel’s legacy here in the UK and to witness such enthusiasm for his ideals. This celebration is a testament to the enduring impact of his vision for unity and progress.”

Krishna Pujara, Secretary General of the Sardar Patel Memorial Society UK

The event concluded with a renewed commitment to honouring Sardar Patel’s ideals, with plans to continue the 150th birth anniversary celebrations in the months to come.

The commemoration received messages from The Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, and Home Minister, Shri Amit Shah.
The commemoration received messages from The Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, and Home Minister, Shri Amit Shah.
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-Top News London News UK News

Mayor Seeks More Funds For Affordable Housing 

Mayor Sadiq Khan Warns Housing Crisis is Dragging Economic Growth of London…reports Asian Lite News

Mayor Sadiq Khan has sounded the alarm on the detrimental economic impacts of London’s housing crisis, emphasizing the need for greater investment in affordable housing. New economic analysis released by City Hall, London Councils, Trust for London, and the G15 reveals that a mere one per cent increase in housing affordability could boost London’s economy by over £7 billion over the next decade. 

The Mayor highlights this report as evidence of affordable housing’s importance not only for residents but also for the overall economy. He argues that creating more affordable homes would support local businesses by making it easier to recruit and retain workers, reduce homelessness, and encourage households to invest in other parts of the economy. 

“Affordable housing is essential for a thriving, resilient economy,” Khan said. “High rents and property prices not only hurt Londoners but hinder the growth potential of our city.” 

Khan is expected to make the case for substantial government investment to address this critical issue, proposing initiatives such as a devolved City Hall Developer Investment Fund and a relaxation of borrowing limits on local councils to help them build more affordable homes. This call comes against a backdrop of soaring construction costs, high-interest rates, and the lingering effects of Brexit, which he says have created the “most challenging environment for housebuilding since the 2008 global financial crisis.” 

Khan’s tenure as Mayor has already seen progress, with more council homes started than at any time since the 1970s and an ambitious target to build 40,000 new council homes by 2030. However, he warns that without further national support, London’s ability to meet housing demands and strengthen the economy will remain limited. 

The newly published research, conducted by NERA Economic Consulting, also highlights how improved housing affordability could yield economic benefits by increasing productivity and encouraging higher take-home incomes. A modest one per cent improvement in affordability could result in a £730 million annual boost to London’s economy, underscoring the connection between affordable housing and economic resilience. 

Claire Holland, Chair of London Councils, and other housing advocates echoed Khan’s call for action, noting that the housing crisis is holding back productivity and affecting Londoners’ quality of life. 

ALSO READ: MPs Unite to Push Western Rail Link to Heathrow 

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Arts & Culture Events London News

Portrayal of Cultural Landscape at House of Lords Marking World Heritage Week

Diplomats, Presenters and Organisers at SETU

The event marks 52nd anniversary of the World Heritage Convention (Convention for the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage)…reports Asian Lite News

An entrancing event marking the World Heritage Week was organised by Sanskruti Centre for Cultural Excellence at the House of Lords recently. Hosted by Baroness Verma, the event titled Cultural Landscape and Understanding Diversity: SETU had Army Officers, poets, doctors, students, several members of the community, and Diplomats Minister-Counsellor Ruslan Karabulov and First Secretary (Trade) Ms. Yvone Zulu in attendance.

Baroness Verma rendering opening words at SETU

In her opening speech, Baroness Verma highlighted the importance on Cultural Diversity in building stronger societies and enhancing mutual understanding. She commended Sanskruti Centre for the consistent efforts in trying to preserve aspects of invaluable intangible heritage of India and South Asia. 

Her Excellency High Commissioner of Zambia Ms Macenje Mazoka and Ambassador of Kazakhstan His Excellency Magzhan Ilyassov have eloquently spoken on cultural diversity in their countries, and appreciated Sustainable Goals and culture dimension.

H.E. High Commissioner of Zambia Ms Mazoka and Parliamentary Host Baroness Verma

Major Munish Chauhan from British Army spoke on Diversity, Enrichment and Leadership. Diverse art forms were presented on the occasion that offered visual delight, aiming to increase awareness about different cultures and traditions.

Young performers Adithi Mote, Ayati Yuvaraj, Kaavya Rapatwar and Swechaa Manikireddy presented the invocation. This was followed by a short historical account on Afro-Indian Siddi community, with the dance presented by Sree Lalitha Kotla. Kuchipudi by Sanvika Kommineni, Kummi by Lakshmi Aveen, Mohiniattam by  Manju Sunil, Limba dance of Sierra Leone by Cecilia Greene and Bharatanatyam dance on flowers by Ragasudha Vinjamuri have all captivated the attendees. BK Jaimini Patel of Brahma Kumaris UK rendered a Peace message and led a short meditation round.

H.E. Ambassador Magzhan Ilyassov speaking at the House of Lords event

Vote of Thanks by Ragasudha Vinjamuri underscored the collective responsibility of parents in building a legion of next generation cultural ambassadors, fostering sense of pride and propagating art & heritage for posterity. 

The event marks 52nd anniversary of the World Heritage Convention (Convention for the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage).

Invocation by young cultural ambassadors of Sanskruti
Classical Dances of India
Classical Dance Presentation
Folk Dances of India
Major Munish Chauhan from British Army speaking on Cultural Diversity
Event on Cultural Landscape and Understanding Diversity- SETU
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-Top News India News London News

‘Chalo India’ cultural event held in London

Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this initiative encourages the global Indian diaspora to invite their non-Indian friends to explore the rich diversity and grandeur of India….reports Asian Lite News

The Ministry of Tourism of the Government of India, in collaboration with the High Commission of India in the UK, hosted the ‘Chalo India’ cultural evening at the historic Cutty Sark, UNESCO Heritage, Clipper ship in London, which was designed to celebrate the vibrancy of Indian culture, heritage, and hospitality, while promoting the Ministry’s new initiative, Chalo India.

This initiative, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, invites the global Indian diaspora to encourage their non-Indian friends to explore the grandeur and diverse experiences that India offers.

The event brought together prominent dignitaries, cultural performers, and members of the Indian community in the UK, underscoring India’s ongoing commitment to deepening cultural ties and enhancing tourism outreach in one of its largest source markets.

The event witnessed dignitaries including Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Minister of Tourism; Vikram Doraiswami, High Commissioner; and tourism ministers from Telangana, Uttarakhand, and Goa as well as the Deputy Chief Minister of Odisha.

Gajendra Singh Shekhawat also shared a video of the ‘Chalo India’ event on X and wrote, “Glimpses from the “Chalo India” evening that was held on the sidelines of World Travel Market 2024 in London. Addressed the gathering and spoke of this unique Chalo India initiative that was launched by our PM @narendramodi in March this year.”



He added, “Urged all our Diasporic Bharateeyas in the UK to be brand ambassadors of this initiative and to invite their non-Indian friends to witness #NewIndia in all its glory. We also announced one lakh e-tourist visas to the foreign guests, who would be travelling under the referral program of Chalo India, till March 31, 2025. Together, let’s say #ChaloIndia and bring the world to witness the grandeur, the glory and the growth story of #ViksitBharat.”

In his address, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat highlighted the deep-rooted ties between London and India, noting the historic significance of launching “Chalo India” amidst the well-established Indian diaspora in the UK.
Traditional Indian dance performances like Bharatnatyam and Garba enthralled guests, showcasing India’s rich heritage through captivating storytelling and movement.



In the event, British author Monisha Rajesh shared her travel experiences in particular her four-month journey around India by train, inspiring guests to explore India’s diverse landscapes and cultural depth.

The event also marked the launch of the “Chalo India” portal, a platform through which the Indian diaspora can refer up to five friends for a free e-Tourist visa, valid until March 31, 2025 to experience India’s unique attractions.

The evening concluded with a vote of thanks by Mugdha Sinha, Director General of Tourism, encouraging support for the “Chalo India” initiative. This memorable event underscored India’s commitment to enhancing tourism ties with the UK and fostering cultural connections. (ANI)

ALSO READ: London Summit Bridges Ayurveda and Modern Medicine

ALSO READ: WTM contributes £200m to London economy

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Health India News London News

London Summit Bridges Ayurveda and Modern Medicine

The first Integrative Medicine Summit held at Central Gurudwara in London on 24 & 25 October 2024 was nothing short of extraordinary. It brought together experts from translational research, Ayurveda, modern medicine, and the NHS. The gathering embodied a collective commitment to advancing integrative healthcare.

Reflecting on the recent Summit, each contribution brought depth and insight to our shared goal of bridging Ayurveda and modern medicine.

Amarjeet S. Bhamra of Ayurveda Centre of Excellence welcomed all delegates of ACE Integrative Medicine Summit 2024, which explores the synergy between Ayurveda and other forms of Medicine to support the management of chronic disease. It will also look at ways of enhancing patient care and delivering cost-effective healthcare solutions in the UK. The Summit brings together, health leaders, politicians, medical doctors, Ayurveda practitioners and social influencers to engage in meaningful discussions, formulate policy recommendations, and promote the integration of evidence-based preventive medicine into healthcare delivery systems.

He set the stage with a strong message of unity, emphasizing the importance of collaboration for the future of integrative medicine and said, this Summit is designed to foster collaboration between traditional Ayurvedic practices and modern medical science, with a focus on developing actionable strategies for integrating these practices into mainstream healthcare.

Amarjeet S Bhamra, Dr Ramesh Mehta CBE President BAPIO, Virendra Sharma

The Rt Hon Baroness Verma Member of House of Lords and Virendra Sharma former MP, with his experience as the ex-chairman of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Indian Traditional Sciences, further reinforced this by welcoming us with inspiring words. Video messages from Prof Dr Tanuja Nesari Director All Indian Institute Ayurveda Ministry of AYUSH Government of India, Dr. Michael Dixon, Chair of the College of Medicine & Integrated Health, and Prof Monique Simmonds OBE Director of Commercial Innovation Unit & Deputy Director of Science at Royal Botanical Gardens Kew London provided much-needed support for integrating Ayurveda into mainstream healthcare.

The first day was enriched by NHS Dr. Ramesh Mehta, CBE, was led by the chairman of British Association of Physician of Indian Origin (BAPIO) who explored the potential of holistic wellness programs within the NHS, paving the way for a deeper dialogue on integrating preventive care. His NHS colleagues Dr. Sunil Kumar contributed his expertise on lifestyle medicine, emphasizing its impact on chronic disease prevention—a powerful reminder of the role of proactive health management. NHS Dr. Hrishikesh Jejurikar and NHS Dr Rajeev Gupta shared compelling success stories of integrating complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) into mainstream practices, and also his insights in finding gaps in modern medicine to fit in Ayurveda, illustrating the real-world benefits of our mission. Dr. Geethakrishnan’s video presentation on WHO’s vision for integrative medicine urged us toward a unified, global approach, reinforcing our purpose.

Analysing the Contribution of Ayurveda to the Public Health was addressed by specially invited speakers from India offered equally insightful, with Prof. Bhushan Patwardhan discussing Ayurveda’s role in universal health coverage and sharing his vision for its future. Prof. Darshan Shankar provided a detailed roadmap for the incorporation of Ayurveda and Yoga into the NHS, giving us clear steps forward. Prof. Unnikrishnan presented evidence of Ayurveda’s impact on managing chronic diseases, adding weight to our advocacy for preventive healthcare.

Amarjeet S Bhamra, Prof Bhushan Patwardhan (India), Dr Naga Venkatesh Jayanthi

Policies on Integration and Pluralism in Health Education were addressed by 1. NHS Dr Payal Mehta- Using Ayurveda alongside Modern Medicine, 2. Dr Rajeev Gupta- Policy Framework for Complementary and Integrative Medicine in the UK and 3. Anushka Shukla from the Imperial College London- Global Perspectives- Ayurveda in Modern Medical Education:

Session of Evidence-based Practice were addressed by 1. Leyla El Moudden- How to collect the evidence for the benefit of Ayurveda, 2. Gayatri Puranik from Germany- How to demonstrate the Safety of the Ayurveda system and medicines. 3. Dr Poppy Mallinson London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine- APRIL: Challenges in Research. 4.Dr. Bhavana Prasher, M.D (Ayurveda) Senior Principal Scientist, CSIR-IGIB (Zoom)- Ayurgenomics: A novel integrative framework of Ayurveda and Genomics for system Biology and translational medicine.

On the second day, NHS Dr. Merlin Willcox highlighted the opportunities and challenges of integrating Ayurveda within the NHS, and Dr. Jejurikar returned to discuss the collaborative potential between Ayurveda practitioners and medical doctors, fostering partnerships essential to our growth. Dr. Sanjay Kinra London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and Head of APRIL, joining via video, offered research strategies to fortify Ayurveda’s scientific foundation, ensuring its credibility in the medical community.

I had the opportunity to share my work in poly-scientific Ayurveda, which Prof. Patwardhan likened to the innovation of “Elon Musk of India.” I am honoured by this comparison and am inspired to continue pioneering research that merges traditional knowledge with scientific rigour and he covered Statistically Significant 5-Year Survival Outcomes in Palliative Care Through Evidence-Based Poly-Scientific Ayurveda.

As NHS Dr. Naga Venkatesh Jayanthi emphasized, bringing our efforts together under ACE would create a powerful foundation for Ayurveda. Having multiple disciplines united in purpose would strengthen our impact, and I am committed to supporting this direction for ACE. Dr Jayanthi spoke on Ayurveda in Cash Strapped NHS, Need for Evidence.

Prof Unnikrishnan (India), Amarjeet S Bhamra, Prof Darshan Shankar (India), Dr Mahesh Mathpati

A panel discussion was led by Dr Palitha Serasinghe, Dr. Hrishikesh Jejurikar, Dr Rajeev Gupta, Dr. Naga Venkatesh Jayanthi and myself and were truly enlightening. Special contribution was also made by Andrea Nunez Casal, Coll de Lima Hutchinson, Dr Heena Nagadia and Dr Mahesh Mathpati. Summary of the Outcomes from the ACE Integrative Medicine Summit were addressed by Prof Darshan Shankar, Prof. Bhushan Patwardhan, Prof. Unnikrishnan and Amarjeet S Bhamra. I highly valued your insights were pioneering added such depth to the conversation and your perspectives were exceptionally invaluable.

Thank you all for this inspiring experience and for strengthening our resolve to advance our mission together.

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Tourism ministry to take part in WTM London

During the event, India Pavilion will showcase the country’s rich kaleidoscope of cultures, languages, and traditions…reports Asian Lite News

The Ministry of Tourism will participate in World Travel Market London beginning today at ExCeL London.

This three-day-long international travel and tourism event will conclude on 7th of November. A delegation comprising 50 stakeholders including State Governments, inbound tour operators, airlines, and hoteliers from the Indian travel industry will participate in this event.

During the event, India Pavilion will showcase the country’s rich kaleidoscope of cultures, languages, and traditions. The focus of this year’s India pavilion is Wedding Tourism, Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism and Mahakumbh.
A special mock Mandapam in the Pavilion has been created to give the look and feel of an Indian wedding. This initiative aligns with India’s strategic goal to enhance inbound tourism and position the country as a premier global travel destination.
Last year also, along with various stakeholders, including the tour operators and state tourism departments, India’s Ministry of Tourism participated in the WTM, showcasing varied tourism products.
The products and series of transformative experiences for travellers to India were shown at the WTM under the theme ‘Incredible India! Visit India Year 2023’.
On track to host the most exhibitors the show has ever seen, WTM London has reported a 7% growth in exhibitor numbers this year, with over 4,000 global tourism boards, hoteliers, transport services, technology brands, associations and experiences set to will take to the halls of Excel London for three days of business.
It’s estimated that in excess of £2.2 billion worth of business deals will be signed this year at the event.
According to VisitBritain data, international delegates visiting the UK for a trade show on average spend £352 per day, which estimates a total visitor spend of £71,215,218.
In a recent report from Deloitte, they suggested that for every £1,000 spent, a further £1,800 is generated in direct tourism gross value, totalling an impressive £200m injection from WTM London into the economy.

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India News London News Travel & Tourism

Goa tourism minister Khaunte to lure international travellers at WTM London

Minister Rohan Khaunte is in London to attend World Travel Market, Rahul Laud reports

Goa’s Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte Minister of Tourism who also holds other portfolios like  Minister for Information Technology, Electronics & Communications, and Printing & Stationery is leading a delegation, including Sanjeev Ahuja, IAS, Secretary (Tourism), Sandip Jacques, IAS, Secretary (Exposition of St. Francis Xavier). Kuldeep Arolkar, Tourism Deputy Director and Shawn Mendes, OSD to Minister for Tourism, at the World Travel Market – the annual Mecca for the global travel and tour trade.

The Goan delegation will speak to speak to the media, tour operators, and tourism trade in London to promote the Goan state.

Another paradigm shift is the new thinking that Goa is much more than Fish Fenny and football, and aims to move beyond its reputation as a beach destination.

Khaunte’s dynamic policy is to reach out to the global traveler that Goan hospitality is world class and its roots and essence are world-class in the hinterland, eco-tourism facilities and a regenerative tourism approach that is more than sustainable making it the first state in India with this tourist approach.

Khaunte is convinced and strongly believes that the environment, local communities, and the Goan economy will flourish through regenerative tourism practices:  In contrast to sustainable tourism, regenerative tourism goes beyond sustainability by actively seeking to improve and restore ecosystems, communities, and cultures.

The regenerative approach aims to leave a positive impact, contributing to the well-being of destinations and fostering resilience,  Cultural and environmental preservation and restoration,  Community empowerment, and Inclusive tourism – a collaborative public-private participative approach.

Khaunte desires a serious solid long-term plan and strategy that goes beyond the glitz glitter glamour of the Casinos.

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India News London News Travel & Tourism

Goa tourism minister Khaunte to lure international travellers; next week in London

Minister Rohan Khaunte is all geared up to travel to London to attend World Travel Market, Rahul Laud reports

Goa’s Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte Minister of Tourism who also holds other portfolios like  Minister for Information Technology, Electronics & Communications, and Printing & Stationery is leading a delegation, including Sanjeev Ahuja, IAS, Secretary (Tourism), Sandip Jacques, IAS, Secretary (Exposition of St. Francis Xavier). Kuldeep Arolkar, Tourism Deputy Director and Shawn Mendes, OSD to Minister for Tourism, to attend the World Travel Market the annual Mecca for the global travel and tour trade, in London.

The Goan delegation will speak to speak to the media, tour operators, and tourism trade in London to promote the Goan state.

Another paradigm shift is the new thinking that Goa is much more than Fish Fenny and football, and aims to move beyond its reputation as a beach destination.

Khaunte’s dynamic policy is to reach out to the global traveler that Goan hospitality is world class and its roots and essence are world-class in the hinterland, eco-tourism facilities and a regenerative tourism approach that is more than sustainable making it the first state in India with this tourist approach.

Khaunte is convinced and strongly believes that the environment, local communities, and the Goan economy will flourish through regenerative tourism practices:  In contrast to sustainable tourism, regenerative tourism goes beyond sustainability by actively seeking to improve and restore ecosystems, communities, and cultures.

The regenerative approach aims to leave a positive impact, contributing to the well-being of destinations and fostering resilience,  Cultural and environmental preservation and restoration,  Community empowerment, and Inclusive tourism – a collaborative public-private participative approach.

Khaunte desires a serious solid long-term plan and strategy that goes beyond the glitz glitter glamour of the Casinos.

ALSO READ: Rajasthan CM unveils Investment Promotion Scheme at London investor roadshow

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Goa London News Travel & Tourism

Goa tourism minister Khaunte to lure international travellers; next week in London

Minister Rohan Khaunte is all geared up to travel to London to attend World Travel Market next week , Rahul Laud reports

Goa’s Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte Minister of Tourism who also holds other portfolios like  Minister for Information Technology, Electronics & Communications, and Printing & Stationery is all geared up with – Sanjeev Ahuja, IAS, Secretary (Tourism), Sandip Jacques, IAS, Secretary (Exposition of St. Francis Xavier). Kuldeep Arolkar, Tourism Deputy Director and Shawn Mendes, OSD to Minister for Tourism – to travel to Goa next week to attend the World Travel Market the annual Mecca for the global travel and tour trade.

The Goan delegation will speak to speak to the media, tour operators, and tourism trade in London to promote the Goan state.

Another paradigm shift is the new thinking that Goa is much more than Fish Fenny and football, and aims to move beyond its reputation as a beach destination.

Khaunte’s dynamic policy is to reach out to the global traveler that Goan hospitality is world class and its roots and essence are world-class in the hinterland, eco-tourism facilities and a regenerative tourism approach that is more than sustainable making it the first state in India with this tourist approach.

Khaunte is convinced and strongly believes that the environment, local communities, and the Goan economy will flourish through regenerative tourism practices:  In contrast to sustainable tourism, regenerative tourism goes beyond sustainability by actively seeking to improve and restore ecosystems, communities, and cultures.

The regenerative approach aims to leave a positive impact, contributing to the well-being of destinations and fostering resilience,  Cultural and environmental preservation and restoration,  Community empowerment, and Inclusive tourism – a collaborative public-private participative approach.

Khaunte desires a serious solid long-term plan and strategy that goes beyond the glitz glitter glamour of the Casinos.

ALSO READ: Rajasthan CM unveils Investment Promotion Scheme at London investor roadshow

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Reevs’ medicine for NHS

The £1.57bn funding is part of the government’s overall pledge to increase the number of NHS hospital appointments and procedures in England by 40,000 per week

The government has announced more details of what is in the Budget for the NHS – including £1.57bn for new surgical hubs, scanners and radiotherapy machines.

The funding is part of the government’s overall pledge to increase the number of NHS hospital appointments and procedures in England by 40,000 per week.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting said the Budget will help to “start fixing the foundation” of the NHS – but warned it “will take time to turn the situation around”.

Health experts have welcomed the new funding but cautioned there were many unanswered questions about future policy with the government’s 10-year NHS plan not published until next spring.

Streeting has repeatedly said “the NHS is broken” since taking on the role in the summer. The latest waiting time figures for the NHS in England show the backlog for hospital care is 7.64 million. Before the pandemic, it was just over four million.

In August, more than 280,000 people had been waiting for an operation, scan or appointment for more than a year. And last month, a damning report warned that the NHS in England was in a “critical condition”, falling well short of its key targets for cancer, emergency (A&E) and hospital treatment.

Soon after the election, the new government allocated £1.8bn to cover work by hospitals in England to reduce waiting lists for planned treatment and appointments. That was new money from the Treasury.

The chancellor has said more funding will be provided to help the NHS deliver the extra 40,000 appointments and procedures per week – or more than two million a year – promised in the Labour manifesto.

The government now says there will also be an extra £1.57bn of capital investment – that is spending on equipment and buildings – that will come through in the next financial year.

Streeting said this includes funds to double the number of diagnostic scanners with AI enabled technology, which he said would mean less staff would be needed to diagnose illnesses. The Treasury has not yet published the overall spending numbers for the NHS in England and the Department of Health and Social Care for this year and next – that will come in the Budget.

Only then will it be possible to judge how these spending figures compare with the previous trend, which saw average annual real increases of 3% in recent decades. Extra money announced by the Westminster government generates more for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland as well.

Speaking to reporters on Monday, Chancellor Rachel Reeves said the NHS was “the lifeblood of Britain” and that is why she is “putting an end to the neglect and underinvestment it has seen for over a decade”.

“We will be known as the government that took the NHS from its worst crisis in its history, got it back on its feet again and made it fit for the bright future ahead of it,” she said.

Asked if the Budget would fix the NHS, Reeves said “I don’t think in one Budget you can undo 14 years of damage”. But she said this Budget will “provide the resource necessary” to deliver the extra 40,000 appointments a week, reduce the backlog and increase the spending on equipment and buildings.

Streeting said the move would help to “arrest the decline” in the health service – but warned there could still be patients waiting on trolleys and in corridors this winter. “Our NHS is broken but it’s not beaten and this budget is the moment we start to fix it,” he said.

Alongside the extra funding, he said “crack teams of top surgeons” would be sent to hospitals across the country to help them treat more patients “and make the money go further”.  Siva Anandaciva, chief analyst at The King’s Fund, said there was still more work to do.

“The sums announced today must be the first but not final word if the government is going to meet its ambitions to deliver an NHS that is fit for the future.” The existing backlog of NHS maintenance issues with building and equipment already stands at a “staggering” £13.8bn, he said.

Saffron Cordery, NHS Providers deputy chief executive, said the funding was a “welcome addition”, but warned the service needed “significantly more investment”. “This has to be a long term endeavour, not just the investment in capital but in running costs. The two need to go hand in hand,” she said.

In addition to investment, the NHS also needs enough staff to take on extra shifts, which is a challenge when vacancies are high and staff are feeling overworked and under pressure. The government said Wednesday’s budget would set out its plans for fixing the NHS and rebuilding Britain.

A Conservative Party spokesman said: “We delivered record funding, overhauled productivity and delivered the first NHS Long Term Workforce Plan to support the health service recover from the pandemic and respond to a growing and ageing population. “If Labour are serious about ensuring the NHS delivers for patients, they must continue this reform instead of holding yet further consultations. The health secretary promised no more money without reform – but where is it?”

Liberal Democrat Health and Social Care spokeswoman Helen Morgan said: “Until the government gets a grip of social care, hospitals will remain overwhelmed, and patients will pay the price.”

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