MTDC’s Aurangabad resort to turn into fully women-operated facility

PUNE: MTDC’s Aurangabad resort would soon be converted into an all-woman-managed facility as a part of the Maharashtra tourism department’s gender-inclusive policy “Aai”, approved recently by the state cabinet.

According to a state government resolution (GR) on the implementation of “Aai”, the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) ’s tourist accommodation in Aurangabad would be the first fully women-operated tourist facility. Its Aarka Restaurant in Kharghar will function as a fully women-operated restaurant.

Women tourists will enjoy a 20% discount on MTDC’s tour packages, according to the GR. The government would reimburse the tour operator.

Special facilities for women tourists at MTDC’s resorts have also been proposed. Priority would be given to disabled or elderly women while allotting rooms near elevators. Creche facility would be introduced for women tourists travelling with children below or up to five years.

The gender-inclusive tourism policy in Maharashtra, spearheaded by tourism minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha, aims to create a more inclusive environment in the tourism industry. It would also promote gender equality in the tourism sector. Radhika Rastogi, the principal secretary of tourism, and Shraddha Joshi Sharma, the managing director of MTDC, played a key role in the initiative, according to sources in MTDC.

Chandrashekhar Jaiswal, general manager, MTDC, Mumbai, said, “Our Aurangabad resort was chosen as it is a world heritage site location and has a sprawling MTDC property. The district attracts a substantial number of both foreign and domestic tourists, making it a well-known destination among travellers.”

Jaiswal said, “Kharghar’s Aarka Restaurant was chosen as it caters to a diverse clientele, including families. The availability of trained hospitality staffers at the managerial and operational levels also played a role in the selection.”