Doubtless, the pandemic has really changed everything. Now that it is said that India is a "Completely Vaccinated Nation," it has prompted the Maharashtra government once again into reviving tourism across this state. During the recent visit of Aaditya Thackeray, Minister of Tourism and Environment, to Vidarbha for two days of tourism promotion visits to environmental activities, one could almost imagine some of the procedures slowing down tourist engagement.

For example, several of the hot spots in Nagpur have increased their entry fees tremendously because of the pandemic. Khindsi Lake, a popular travel destination near Ramtek in the Nagpur district, has increased its price from ₹25 to ₹100-an increase of four times. This move has drawn widespread criticism from visitors.

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Interestingly, Ramtek is represented by both a Member of Parliament and a Member of the Legislative Assembly from Shiv Sena.

Khindsi Lake, managed by Rajkamal Tourism and Olive Resorts, is Central India’s largest boating facility and amusement park. Out comes a requirement and this serves as a much attractive points for many, including the weekend tourist crowd that is from the neighbouring villages. However sharply increasing prices could well change the course of footfalls, probably defeating the purpose of state government efforts to boost tourism in Vidarbha.

Defending the price rise after the nagpur today Chandarpal Chaukasey, director, Rajkamal Tourism and Olive Resorts cited the financial burden that the pandemic had brought upon the tour operation as a reason of the price increase.

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“I’ve been catering to tourists for years and was among the pioneers of promoting tourism in Vidarbha. While I understand that a steep price hike can discourage visitors, there was no alternative,” Chaukasey explained.

“The tourism sector has been struggling for the past two years due to the pandemic. Despite the challenges, we refrained from laying off employees, opting instead for a 50% workforce reduction without dismissing anyone. Although the state government has allowed tourist spots to reopen, the 50% visitor cap has made it difficult to manage expenses. This price increase was the only viable option,” he added.