India’s Tourism Minister, G. Kishan Reddy, has called on industry stakeholders to invest in and partner with the government to help revive the country’s tourism industry, which has been severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. In a recent address to industry leaders, Reddy highlighted the importance of tourism to India’s economy and stressed the need for cooperation to promote sustainable tourism.
Reddy urged industry players to take advantage of the government’s various initiatives, such as the Swadesh Darshan and PRASAD schemes, which aim to develop tourism infrastructure across the country. He also called for greater private sector participation in tourism projects, stating that public-private partnerships would be key to driving growth in the sector.
The minister emphasized the need to focus on domestic tourism and encouraged industry stakeholders to create innovative packages and experiences to attract Indian travelers. Reddy also stressed the importance of promoting responsible tourism practices, such as reducing plastic waste and preserving local cultures and heritage.
Reddy’s call to action comes at a crucial time for India’s tourism industry, which has suffered a severe blow due to the pandemic. The country’s tourist arrivals fell by 73.5% in 2020 compared to the previous year, resulting in a loss of over 4.5 million jobs in the sector. However, there are signs of recovery, with domestic tourism showing a significant increase in recent months.
Reddy’s speech was well-received by industry stakeholders, who welcomed the government’s initiatives to support tourism. However, they also urged the government to provide more financial support to the industry and to address issues such as high taxes and bureaucratic hurdles.
In conclusion, Reddy’s outreach to industry stakeholders is a positive step towards promoting the revival of India’s tourism industry. The minister’s call for investment and partnership with the government will hopefully encourage more private sector participation and drive growth in the sector. The industry will need continued support and cooperation from the government to overcome the challenges posed by the pandemic and ensure a sustainable future for tourism in India.