About the Department:

Nestled amidst the verdant plains of Jalpaiguri, West Bengal, lies P.D. Women’s College, a symbol of education and empowerment for women since 1950. Established in the loving memory of the Late PrasannadebRaikat, the last Raja of Baikunthapur, the college has carved a niche for itself in the academic landscape of North Bengal. Throughout its journey, P.D. Women’s College has consistently strived to provide quality education, particularly to underprivileged girls from the region. Established in 1998, the Tourism and Travel Management program at P.D. Women’s College equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the exciting world of travel and tourism. The Department plays a significant role in women’s empowerment by providing opportunities for economic independence, social mobility, and personal growth. Tourism creates jobs in various sectors like hospitality, travel agencies, transportation, and souvenir shops. Girls can find employment as tour guides, hotel managers, entrepreneurs, craft makers, and more, leading to financial independence and improved livelihoods. Tourism also encourages entrepreneurship, especially among students, who can start their businesses like homestays, handicrafts, or local food stalls. This fosters self-reliance and control over their economic destinies.Acknowledging and addressing the existing challenges, weareworkingtowardsamoreequitableandsustainabletourismindustrythatbenefitsfemale students and communities.With its commitment to academic excellence and personal growth, the Tourism and Travel Management Department of P.D.Women’s College has produced a remarkable alum network ofsuccessfulprofessionals,entrepreneurs,andleaders.Thecollegetakesprideinitsgraduates making a mark in various spheres of life in India.As The Department of Tourism and Travel Managementstepsintoitsnextchapter,itcontinuestobeabeaconofhopeandopportunityfor generationsofwomen.TheDepartmentempowersitsstudentstobreakbarriersandshapetheir destinies by providing access to quality education with practical training and instilling confidence and self-reliance.

Notable activities performed:

(i)”In honour of World Tourism Day onSeptember 27th, 2023,the department hosted a special lecture for all students on the UNWTO’s theme,”Tourism and Green Investments.” This theme aimed to galvanize action towards ensuring thetourismindustry’sgrowthbenefitseconomiesandsafeguardsourplanet.Thefocuswason encouraging investments prioritizing sustainability, from eco-friendly infrastructure and renewable energy in tourism destinations to support local communities and preserve biodiversity. Ultimately, “Tourism and Green Investments” urged us to reimagine travel as a force for good, leaving a positive legacy for future generations and inspiring responsible choices for travelers and industry leaders.
(ii) On January 4th, 2024, the department hosted a captivating photography competition, inviting students to capture the essence of their locality through their lenses. From the verdant landscapes and fascinating wildlife to the rich cultural tapestry and the warmth of the people, the competition aimed to showcase the beauty of Jalpaiguri through fresh perspectives.
(iii) The department organized a special lecture by Mr. Raj Basu, the esteemed Chairman of Eco-Tourism at the West Bengal Government. His insightful talk highlighted the importance of responsible tourism and sustainable practices, urging students to become accountable travelers and agents of positive change.

(iv) OurdepartmentobservedNationalTourismDayOn25thJan2024.In 2024, the chosen theme, “Sustainable Journeys, Timeless Memories,” echoes a profound call to action: to explore and experience the wonders of India while prioritizing responsible and mindful practices. On this very day department hosted’UttarerPalliTanaya’-a villagefestival celebratingthe daughtersof ruralNorth Bengal.This festival was an invitation to see North Bengal through a new lens – not just as a tourist destination but as a land where communities thrive, traditions endure, and daughters like ‘Uttarer Palli Tanaya’ carry the torch of their rich heritage forward.