Kerala Tourism secretary Rani George has said the state government is working on reviving the tourism sector with special focus on ayurveda, adventure and houseboat tourism.
Addressing an interactive virtual session organized by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), she said, “SOPs for these areas are already prepared and will soon be circulated to the industry for implementation.”
“The Kerala government has been proactive in preventing COVID-19 in the state. We will be focusing on promoting Kerala as a safe and hygienic destination for prospective tourists,” Rani George added.
Baby Mathew, President, Kerala Travel Mart Society and Managing Director, Somatheeram Group hoped that the Central government will consider relief measures for the sector. “For the support of the industry, we have submitted recommendations for relief measures, and we request the government to kindly consider them.”
“We are also planning to hold a virtual Kerala Travel Mart in September. We will concentrate on regional tourism and focus on tourists within the state, then other states and eventually international tourists,” Mathew said.
Dilip Chenoy, Secretary General, FICCI said that the government of Kerala has emerged as a role model state in managing COVID-19 pandemic. “Kerala has always led by example in tourism and hospitality,” he said.
Jyotsna Suri, Past President, FICCI; Chairperson, FICCI Tourism Committee and CMD, The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, while highlighting the measures needed for survival and revival, said, “Tourism will be the torch bearer of economic revival. We have the demand and the supply in India and the need is to focus on Domestic Tourism. Kerala has been the ultimate travel destination. Now more than ever, people understand the value of wellness and this is what Kerala offers.”
Dipak Deva, Co-Chairman, FICCI Tourism Committee & Managing Director, Sita, TCI & Distant Frontiers said that it is a good opportunity for Kerala to position itself for value tourism. “Kerala is known for its beautiful smaller hotels. If smaller groups travel and book the entire property, there would be a higher level of safety and hygiene for the group. This could be weaved into the communication strategy,” he said.
Riyaz UC, Convenor of FICCI KESC Tourism Committee and Managing Director, Spiceland Holidays and Entertainments said that the Kerala government has always helped the tourism sector and the industry now needs the support of the government for its revival.
The session was moderated by Ashish Kumar, Co-Chair, FICCI Travel Technology Committee & Managing Partner, Agnitio Consulting. The virtual session was attended by several key stakeholders from the travel and tourism industry.
