The Hindu : New Delhi News : A long jump for alternate medicine

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Friday, Mar 21, 2008
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New Delhi

A long jump for alternate medicine

It is

no secret that the influx of sportspersons and tourists for the Commonwealth Games in 2010 will provide an impetus to the economy of Delhi and its surrounding areas.

The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry’s recent paper on “Prospects for ayurvedic and medical tourism during the Commonwealth Games-2010” estimates that these industries situated principally in the northern regions stand to gain over Rs.800 crore from the Games-related kickbacks.

ASSOCHAM president Venugopal Dhoot says: “The Games would increase employment opportunities for such professionals by over 40,000. Our estimates are based on the assumption that over 1,800 athletes and more than 7 lakh visitors will arrive in the Capital for the Games. These tourists will be largely from Canada, Australia, Malaysia, South Africa, Singapore and Sri Lanka.”

The paper has also analysed the spending patterns of visitors stating that each foreigner is likely to spend Rs.10,000 to 35,000 on alternative medical facilities such as ayurvedic and herbal centres and spas.

“The domestic ayurvedic industry size is presently estimated to be Rs.3,000 crore. This figure is bound to go up to Rs.5,000 crore over the next two years in view of the rising demand for such facilities. Neighbouring States stand to gain the most as the ayurvedic industry is presently dominated by Kerala and Karnataka,” says Mr. Dhoot.

The organisation also states that the Indian spa industry is on the threshold of an over 35 billion dollar investment over the next four years. It has suggested creation of more skilled professionals in the field.

Kunal Diwan

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