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Vol. XXXIV Issue 12; June 2nd fortnight issue 2022 A DDP PUBLICATION Pages : 24 ` 20/-
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Vol. XXXIV Issue 12; June 2nd fortnight issue 2022 A DDP PUBLICATION Pages : 24 ` 20/-
TravTalkIndia.com
ddppl.com
Sustainable tourism in limelight
The National Strategy for Sustainable Tourism and Responsible Traveller Campaign, launched by the Ministry of
Tourism in New Delhi recently, aims to mainstream sustainability in Indian tourism sector and ensure a more resilient,
inclusive, carbon neutral and resource efficient tourism, while safeguarding natural and cultural resources.
Janice Alyosius Sustainable Tourism and Respon- ism, Government of India, said, its focus to resiliency, sustain-
sible Traveller Campaign in New “Tourism and environment share ability and interconnectedness
N
ational Tourism Policy 2022 Delhi recently. a special relationship. Their in- among diverse stakeholders in
recognises tourism as a teraction with each other is a the sector.”
key driver of economic The national strategy aims to two-way process. On the one
growth in India, as it is one of the mainstream sustainability in hand, environmental resources The MOT also announced
fastest growing sectors and has Indian tourism sector and en- constitute one of the basic ingre- Swadesh Darshan 2.0 on the occa-
a significant impact on trade, job sure a more resilient, inclusive, dients of tourism. The natural and sion. Rakesh Verma, Additional
creation, investment, infrastruc- carbon neutral and resource manmade setting form the tour- Secretary, Ministry of Tourism,
ture development and social inclu- efficient tourism while safe- ism products that the tourist en- Government of India, said, “Our
sion. Since sustainability is a pre- guarding natural and cultural joys. On the other hand, the close National Strategy for sustainable
requisite for the long-term growth resources. The strategy docu- Arvind Singh Rakesh Verma
and direct relationship between tourism and Swadesh Darshan
of tourism, the Union Ministry of ment identifies the strategic Secretary, MOT, Government of India Additional Secretary, MOT, Government of India visitors, host communities and schemes are focused on devel-
Tourism has a prepared national pillars for development of sus- local environment create a sen- oping sustainable tourist destina-
strategy for sustainable tourism tainable tourism like promoting sustainability, scheme for cer- able tourism will involve a sitive situation, whereby tourism tions, with the key objective of
in consultation with relevant min- environmental sustainability, tification of sustainable tour- diverse set of stakeholders. can be both damaging as well as preserving and enhancing the lo-
istries, state governments and in- protecting biodiversity, pro- ism, IEC and capacity building positive for sustainable develop- cal culture and natural resources
dustry stakeholders. The ministry moting economic sustainabil- and governance. Promotion Speaking at the event, ment. The pandemic has further and the contribution of tourism
launched the National Strategy for ity, promoting socio-cultural and development of sustain- Arvind Singh, Secretary, Tour- forced the tourism sector to shift Contd on page 16
Maha to check over-tourism Ayush visa, a gamechanger
Sustainable tourism policy of the state will help disperse tourists to Welcoming the recently announced Ayush visa, inbound players
outskirts, reduce impact on environment and benefit locals, says say there is a need to take these alternative therapies originating in
Dr Dhananjay Sawalkar, Joint MD, Directorate of Tourism, Maharashtra. India to international tourists in a big way.
Hazel Jain “Our aim now is to keep them Nisha Verma therapy travel to India. "We should
within Maharashtra and encour- encourage and ensure that all the
T P
he Directorate of Tourism, age them to visit places like Au- rime Minister Narendra Modi international insurance companies
Maharashtra, is keen on rangabad, Tadoba and the Konkan recently announced that In- are recognised by the hospitals
promoting unique things dia will soon introduce a spe- here. Also, the facilities here with
that the state has to offer to at- cial Ayush visa category for foreign the accredited hospitals and well-
tract more international tour- nationals who want to come to ness centres should be widely
ists. For instance, caves, says We are seeing India to take advantage of Ayush publicised in the source markets
Dr Dhananjay Sawalkar, Joint therapy. The announcement sent from where we expect the patients
Managing Director, Directorate instances of a ray of hope among the inbound to come here, like South eastern
of Tourism, Maharashtra. “Out over-tourism, tourism industry. and European countries where
of the 1,200 caves in India, 800 Dr Dhananjay Sawalkar long waiting periods are there.
are in our state. Sea forts are also Joint MD, Directorate of Tourism, Maharashtra land pollution Medical tourism boon
EM Najeeb
Senior Vice President, IATO Wide publicity should be given
unique to our state. We are also
promoting adventure activities moting through roadshows, travel
and even Sharing how India was already
making waves in terms of medi-
digitally as well as through embas-
higher heights in the future. Looking sies,” he said.
like paragliding at Kamshet and marts and familiarisation tours,” water shortage cal tourism, EM Najeeb, Senior backward, the earlier estimation
scuba diving in Sindhudurg, along he says. Vice President, IATO, said, “Pre- was that by mid–2020, India's Alternative takes centrestage
with rural tourism as it will appeal
in tourist places Covid India was the hub of medi- medical tourism sector would The Ayush visa, believes Rajiv
to inbound travellers. We want to Sharing pre-pandemic figures, Dr cal tourism taking nearly 18 per have an estimated growth worth Mehra, President, IATO, will help
look at how foreign tourists are Sawalkar says that it ranged from cent of the global market. In 2017, US$5–6 billion.” business in India. “Whoever will
arriving into Maharashtra and 45-50 lakh international tourists. belt where they can stay for more 495,056 patients visited India to come with this visa, will stay here
how can we get them to stay But they stay for one to two days than four or five days,” he added. seek medical care. This points to Najeeb believes that Ayush visa is for a long time, which will always
longer. So, we have identified 10 in Mumbai only and go on to other Another sector that has been so the fact that this high potential and a great advantage for promoting help the business, especially for
long-stay circuits that we are pro- states like Goa or Kerala. Contd on page 16 bounce would take this sector to medical value as well as alternative Contd on page 12
BULLETIN june 2 nd Fortnight issue 2022 TravTalk 5
Make tourism national priority: HRAWI
Among the recommendations submitted to the Union goverment, Hotel & Restaurant Association of Western
India has requested for better credit facilities for the hospitality sector. The association has also sought investment
subsidies and tax holidays for investments in tourism projects, and continuation of the EPCG Scheme.
TT Bureau Paramjit Ghai, Joint Honorary are the key drivers to accelerate said Pradeep Shetty, Senior Vice- in the country that are in need
Secretary, HRAWI and Kunal socio-economic development of President, HRAWI. of protection from the preda-
S
enior delegates of the Gujral, Secretary General, HRAWI the country. Also, as part of the tory pricing and anti-competitive
Hotel & Restaurant among others. celebrations of ‘Azadi Ka Amrit HRAWI also has requested tactics of OTAs and FSAs. The
Association of West- Mahotsav’, with the support of for continuation of the EPCG minister was extremely recep-
ern India (HRAWI) met with the Ministry of Tourism we have Scheme, favourable liquor li-
G. Kishan Reddy, Union Minister proposed organising food festi- and for better credit facilities for cence policies and a level playing
for Tourism, Culture and Develop- vals across the Western region,” the sector. It has requested for in- field that covers both conven-
ment, North-Eastern Region, du- says Bhatia. “The minister was vestment subsidies and tax holi- tional and alternate accommoda- Going green
rubg his visit to Mumbai recently. keen about hospitality’s role in days for investments in tourism tion such as B&B, guest houses,
The delegation presented the the adoption and preservation projects. “GST rates for hospital- short term rentals and so on. The is a trend
minister with a comprehensive of historical monuments. He ity in India are one of the highest association requested the minis- that is now
wish-list of the hospitality indus- suggested that the hospitality in- in the world and this makes both ter for support in building a plat-
try highlighting concerns and dustry participates in such CSR domestic and inbound tourism form similar to Open Network for being adopted
recommendations for the revival
and growth of the sector. The
Sherry Bhatia
President, HRAWI
activities that aid in the mainte-
nance and preservation of histori-
expensive. We have requested
that the 18 per cent GST category
Digital Commerce (ONDC) for the
hospitality industry for ensuring a
by everyone
delegation also apprised the min- cal places and monuments. The for hotels above room rates of level playing field and to break the in the
ister about the major concerns of “We thank the minister for tak- Archaeological Survey of India `7,500 be annulled and merged monopoly of OTAs and FSAs.
the sector subsequent to the two ing the time out to meet with us (ASI) has been requested to pre- with the 12 per cent GST catego-
country
turbulent years of the pandemic. during his short visit to Mumbai pare a report on the subject and ry. Similarly, restaurants should “The Initiative to build a similar
and for giving us the opportunity HRAWI has accepted the pro- be allowed to avail the option to platform like ONDC for the hos-
The association was repre- to submit a comprehensive rep- posal wholeheartedly,” he added. either charge a composite GST at pitality sector will immensely tive about our suggestions and
sented by Sherry Bhatia, resentation with the sector’s pri- 5 per cent with no input tax credit benefit millions of customers we look forward to his consider-
President, HRAWI; Gurbaxish orities for its revival. We have re- Among the submitted recom- or charge GST at 12 per cent with with better deals and better cus- ation of the same, which can go
Singh Kohli, Vice President, quested him to consider making mendations, HRAWI has request- full input tax credit and that the tomer experience. It will ensure a a long way in transforming the
FHRAI; Pradeep Shetty, Se- tourism a National Priority Sector ed the minister to consider grant- rate be delinked from any room mechanism to protect the interest travel and tourism sector in the
nior Vice-President, HRAWI; since tourism and hospitality ing infrastructure status to hotels tariff if they are part of hotels,” of lakhs of hotels and restaurants country,” Shetty concluded.
statistics
Sustainable lifestyle new normal
VIEWPOINT Indians are becoming more conscious of making eco-friendly lifestyle choices enabling a
positive impact on the environment, reveals a recent report by Amex Trendex. About 90
per cent of Indians are apprising themselves about carbon offsetting, it says.
Tourism with responsibility TT Bureau per cent knew about carbon re- per cent of Indian adults are more show that Indian consumers are
Earlier this month, the Ministry of Tourism held a moval. In addition to this, about likely to purchase environment- becoming more self-aware and
A
round 95 per cent of In- 92 per cent of Indian adults have friendly products now than be- are making more informed deci-
workshop in New Delhi on responsible and sustain- dians have become more a good understanding of their fore the pandemic. “The findings sions to conserve the environ-
able tourism. At the event, experts addressed key focused on a variety of personal carbon footprint and 87 of our Trendex research clearly ment, which is especially true for
challenges in the sector and shared case studies. sustainability topics with re- GenZers and Millennials,” said
cycling, renewable energy and Vibha Bajaj, Vice President, Cor-
A full day of learning with a full house of attendees. climate action gaining the most Indians lead the eco-friendly pack porate Affairs, Asia, American
Focusing on India, the Global Sustainable Tourism interest, and they made changes v More interested in energy efficiency in home/apartment than Express. "At American Express
in their everyday life to reduce ever before (97 per cent). India, we have been driving sus-
Council shared some interesting data. It stated, their carbon footprint last year. tainability initiatives along with
v Looking for companies to provide them with options to remove
"Sometimes referred to as ecotourism in India, sus- For 96 per cent of surveyed In- multiple partners for increasing
dians, one of their goals in 2022 carbon emissions associated with their purchases with 98 per the green cover, improving the
tainable tourism is becoming more and more im- cent stating so
is making more sustainable be- air quality, and raising awareness
portant." Booking.com research in 2020 said 96% haviour choices with purchases v More focused on a variety of sustainability topics this year with among the community in urban
of Indian travellers identified sustainable travel as of clothing, food, tech and travel. air pollution (96 per cent) and recycling, renewable energy spaces. Through volunteering
and climate action (95 per cent) gaining the most interest. programmes, our colleagues
important to them, while 76% said they were more
About 90 per cent of the Indians v Wanting to make more travel decisions with climate impact in have also been supporting both
determined to make sustainable choices when are apprising themselves about mind (96 per cent). country-specific and global
looking to travel again in the future. While these carbon offsetting and around 91 green initiatives," she added.
findings are promising, obstacles still exist. 39% of
Indian travellers do not know how or where to find
sustainable travel options and 54% think there aren’t
enough sustainable travel options available. While
it seems that travellers are gearing up to make re-
May brings travel recovery hope
sponsible choices, we, the tourism industry, need to During the month of May, Indian airports witness steep increase in international passenger
take charge and rebuild tourism sustainability. traffic to 72 per cent of the pre-Covid levels. This comes within one month of the resumption
of international commercial operations on March 27.
Wellness and Yoga TT Bureau
I
As India prepares for the eighth edition of the Inter- CRA expects an increase in the May trend in passenger traffic (in million)
overall passenger traffic up to
national Day of Yoga on June 21, the Union Ministry 97 per cent of the pre-Covid 30 93% 100%
of Ayush has ‘Yoga for Humanity’ as the theme for levels in FY2023 on the back of a 79% 91%
25 74%
this year. It aims to portray how yoga served hu- strong and sharp recovery in do- 66% 80%
mestic passenger traffic and the 20 60%
manity in alleviating sufferings during Covid-19. resumption of international com-
56% 49% 60%
50%
While there has been a huge demand for yoga and mercial operations. The inter- 15
national commercial operations 36% 40%
wellness retreats since the pandemic, connecting resumed on March 27 this year, 10 23%
with nature, focussing on holistic well-being, nutri- after a two-year ban. Though,
5 20%
tion and rejuvenation are now the buzz words. special flights were allowed dur-
ing the banned period. 0 0%
While holistic healing takes centrestage, is India tour- Jun-21 Jul-21 Aug-21 Sep-21 Oct-21 Nov-21 Dec-21 Jan-22 Feb-22 Mar-22 Apr-22 May-22
ism doing enough to grow its wellness offerings in The ramp up is healthy with Total Passenger Traffic % Recovery (similar period in FY 2020)
international passenger traffic
international markets? While International yoga day reaching 63 per cent and 72 per
Source: AAI, ICRA Research; * Mar-22 recovery is not given due to closure of airports operations partly during Mar-20
can be a huge draw for foreign tourists to visit India cent of pre-Covid levels (similar
in the summer, are we making the most of these period in 2019) in April and May Covid levels in May 2022. As per international traffic to reach 80- level in FY2023 as against earlier
2022 respectively compared a recent report published by ICRA 85 per cent of the pre-Covid estimates of 70-75 per cent.”
opportunities? This year, India is also celebrating to the recovery of less than 50 on Airport Infrastructure industry,
Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav where 75 iconic national per cent to that of pre-pandemic Abhishek Lahoti, Senior Analyst,
sites will showcase mass yoga demonstration while levels during FY2022. The re- Corporate Ratings, ICRA, said, Highlights
covery in domestic passenger “Resumption of international v The recovery in domestic passenger traffic was strong post-
states will hold similar programmes at 75 important traffic was strong post-Omicron commercial operations has ac- Omicron and has reached 98 per cent of pre-Covid levels in
locations, according to their choice. I hope we get and has reached 98 per cent of celerated the traffic recovery. April and May 2022
to see a few foreign tourists also practice yoga and pre-Covid levels in April and May Considering the healthy ramp v International traffic to reach 80-85 per cent of the pre-Covid
2022. Overall, passenger traffic up in international traffic in the
help make India the healing tourism capital. has reached 93 per cent of pre- last two months, ICRA expects
level in FY2023 as against earlier estimate of 70-75 per cent.
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agents june 2 nd Fortnight issue 2022 TravTalk 7
Valley looks at brighter times TourismNews
‘Succeeded in putting tourism
on the UN agenda as a top
priority’: UNWTO
While travel demand for Kashmir is at an all-time high, local trade is struggling with shortage of
Senior citizens in Kerala get
hotel rooms and services. Zahoor Qari, Chairman & Managing Executive, Air Links Tours and 50 per cent cut in entry fee in
Travels, explains why it is important to bring down rates and create better infrastructure. tourism centres
accommodations for the tourists The demand is high, said Qari, ists are more compared to budget message to the hoteliers charging International passenger traffic
Nisha Verma likely to reach up to 85 per cent
that come to Kashmir. “Previously, adding that the infrastructure in tourists, due to which the rates much more than the amenities
K
ashmir has seen an un- the bookings were not going online the valley is not enough to take on have gone very high,” he claimed. and services they provide. The of pre-Covid levels in 2023
precedented rise in tourist to such an extent. Tour operators the complete tourist inflow that is same goes for some transporters
arrivals, recording around are now facing a lot of problems coming. “The rates have gone so and shikarawalas. Not all hotels FITUR 2023 to hold 43rd
600,000 tourists in the first four
months of 2022, highest in the
in getting the tourists and groups high that certain people are avoid-
ing to come to Kashmir because
This time we in Kashmir are worth charging
`12,000-13,000 per room, and
edition of International Tourism
Fair from 18 to 22 January 2023
last 10 years. Commenting on of non-availability of properties are seeing quoting this much for clients
the same, Zahoor Qari, Chairman and services, as there is a short- creates a bad image on the tour
& Managing Executive, Air Links age of vehicles and rooms. Gov- more high-end operators if the customers are dis-
75 per cent Indians ready to
spend more than pre-pandemic
Tours and Travels, said that they ernment is trying to accommo- tourists, due to satisfied and feel misguided. It is
on travel: MMT
are seeing a boom in business. date whatever demand is coming. not the fault of the tour operator,”
“There is hardly any property We have also given suggestion to which the rates he appealed. He said hotel asso-
where we can get any room these
days. We are already booked un-
the government to develop new
properties, so that in future we
have gone ciations and transporters have as-
sured them for amicable solution.
Ananta Hotels & Resorts
announces opening of 52-key
til July, and some properties are don’t have shortage as we have very high property in Sasan Gir, Gujarat
booked until October. We are see- Zahoor Qari now,” he further added. Govt support
Chairman & Managing Executive
ing such traffic in a decade. It is Air Links Tours and Travels
Praising the tourism department, Suspected digital fraud
a good step and progress for our He agreed that this increase could Protests Qari said, “The department is tak- attempts against travel industry
Union Territory (UT).” be a result of Covid, after which Recently a protest was held in ing the required steps. One of our rise by 68 per cent
accommodated in different prop- people couldn’t travel outside Kashmir by the travel trade against demands is that they should give
Issues at hand erties. Also, it is difficult to provide India and preferred Kashmir over the unethical practices by hotels more permits to taxi operators.
While Qari agrees that pressure is the desired properties to tourists many other destinations. “Gener- and other service providers. “I am Secondly, the tourism department Israel removes all RT-PCR
there on all segments of tourism because they are either already ally, they were going to Thailand, the convener of United Tourism is in touch with the hoteliers to testing requirements from
ecosystem, Qari highlights that occupied or are not available. Malaysia or Dubai, but that traffic Forum, which staged those pro- create more properties. With this, 21 May for all international
tour operators are still suffering Same is the case with houseboats has come to Kashmir. This time tests. It is a group of 14 associa- we would be able to overcome the travellers
because they are unable to get the and shikaras,” he said. we are seeing that high-end tour- tions. The idea was to give a clear shortage of hotels."
8 TravTalk JUNE 2 nd Fortnight issue 2022 Associations
‘We expect India to be new China’
PATA India chapter’s ‘Webinar: Asia Pacific Destination Forecast’ unveils the impact of Covid on the industry and
what the future holds in terms of recovery for the Asia-Pacific, with a focus on India, which is projecting positive
growth in the coming years.
Nisha Verma has outperformed any Asia-Pa-
cific country in the recovery with
L
iz Ortiguera, CEO, PATA and faster capacity rebuild. We expect
Prof. John Koldowski, Advi- India to be the new China over the
sor, PATA, shared the tour- next five years. While other mar-
ism trends and projections for kets have suffered from under ca-
India market for next two years pacity, India has bounced back.” into their holiday plans, majority
(2022-24). Starting the presen- She added, “There is a high inter- of travellers in the region agreed.
tation, Ortiguera said that people est, not just in marketing inbound “India is sitting above 60 per
are looking forward to be recon- cent, while the average is 57 per
nected and hence "Travel can cent in this region. There is a big
be a force for good, particularly shift post pandemic, whether it is
in Asia". Giving a general outlook, consumers or corporates, there
she said, “There are three brief is an intention to more sustain-
messages—cautious optimism; able practices, interest and a
there are opportunities for the sense of responsibility. Our ad-
innovative and strategic; and we vise for destination operators
have to remind the world that the and service providers is to stay
future is Asia.” current, be more conscious and destinations. “They are more Summit in Ras Al Khaimah. Last- Asia. With the impact of Covid-19
Liz Ortiguera start to adapt sustainable travel aware now after the impact of ly, we will be hosting an APAC and the regulations required to con-
CEO, PATA
Employee situation practices,” she shared. over-tourism and it is important travel Summit with a travel mart tain it, it is slowly struggling back
She underlined the fact that mil- that destinations do not just in December in partnership with to its relative significance. It might
lions of jobs, particularly in Asia- Eight-point agenda pitch what they are offering, but GBTA,” she announced. take another year beyond 2024 for
Pacific, have been lost due to the India has Claiming that their role at PATA India to do that,” he claimed.
pandemic. “We are all keen to get would be to share the best prac- Overview of visitor arrivals
our livelihood back and get peo- outperformed tices so that members can stay Koldowski, in his presentation, Wicked problems
ple re-employed. Thus, travel will
be the growth engine again for
Asia-Pacific dynamic and ahead of the curve,
Ortiguera said, “When I started
gave an overview of how PATA
is seeing the potential for visitor
Koldowski further mentioned that
we are now entering an era of
the region,” she claimed. High- in the tourism my role at PATA, I had put in an arrivals in the next three years, wicked problems. “While previ-
lighting the role of employees in eight-point plan with the intent of particularly with a focus on South ously we had relative periods of
tourism companies, she said,
recovery trying to deliver on some essen- Asia and India. “In 2020, glob-
“The staff has been put through with faster tials that would help our mem- ally International Tourist Arrivals
challenges and I think it’s an bership base and the industry in (ITAs) fell off a cliff, but in 2021
important time to recognise and capacity rebuild terms of recovery. Some topics John Koldowski there was a slight turnaround. Looking at
appreciate them because these
are not the jobs they signed up
of interest include recovery initia-
tives, resilience, sustainability and
Advisor, PATA According to UNWTO, while
some parts of the world were
foreign
for, but have done the industry to Asia-Pacific, but the power regenerative travel as important slowly, struggling out of a deficit, tourist footfalls
a great service through the pan-
demic, supporting the recovery
of our consumers, particularly
the Indian consumer is one that
market trends.”
In fact, with Asia and the Pacific regions re-
mained there through 2021.”
in 2019, India
and coming out of it.” Ortiguera gets the attention of Europe and Wellness in travel Covid, we lost captured 69 per
said that shortage of employees North America.” Adding that all travel today is Corresponding to 2019,
is a common complaint around wellness influenced, Ortiguera 30 years of Koldowski said, “We are not go- cent of tourists
the world. In North America, Eu- Sustainability on top said, “Even if primary purpose growth and it ing to get back to 2019 levels of into South Asia
rope and even in China, the great Sharing a research, she said, “The for your trip is not wellness, you international tourist arrivals any-
resignation is in effect. “Many desire for conscious tourism cuts are making 100 decisions in the will take some time soon. In fact, with Covid, we — John Koldowski
hospitality companies are seeing
staffing constraints. Also, there is
across geography. Around 4,500
travellers in our region were sur-
course of your trip that are well-
ness related. Travellers are far
time to get back lost 30 years of growth and it is
going to take some time to get
a rise of the conscious consumer veyed and a high percentage more conscious of wellness than to that level back to that level.” stability with the occasional dis-
and corporate,” she informed. of them with India scoring par- they were before.” ruption, we are now moving into
ticularly high, with 97 per cent of India scenario an era of constant disruption, with
India shining them consider conscious tourism Destination management also be proactive in terms of Sharing the PATA research on Asia- relatively small periods of stability.
Citing a forecast update by Offi- important.” In terms of factoring Ortiguera claimed that travel- management. Hence, we have Pacific visitor forecasts 2022-24, We need to get used to that.”
cial Airline Guide, she said, “India sustainable tourism practices lers want to see well-managed deployed training to help desti- Koldwoski said, “Looking at the
nations do that,” she said. “As share of international visitor arrivals Digitally forward
PATA, we are trying to leverage into India in 2019, India captured Ortiguera said, “Digital marketing is
all our channels to keep the in- 69 per cent of all arrivals into South essential and critical for any busi-
dustry and consumers informed ness right now because that is how
on the status of different desti- consumers find business online. If
nations and new products be- you are not into digital marketing,
cause many destinations have While travelling, get into it. Because during Covid
evolved by responding to things
like increased interest in well-
you make 100 many people got used to searching
online, ordering online and com-
ness offerings,” she added. decisions in the municating online. It is not going
Upcoming events
course of trip and will continue." She added,
"The rise of distributed workforce
She also highlighted PATA’s that are related has led to a reduced need for big
upcoming global events. “We corporate offices. This gives rise
have PATA Destination Market- to wellness to opportunities as new forms of
ing Forum in Songkhla, Thailand. — Liz Ortiguera travel that are not defined into pure
Secondly, there is PATA Annual corporate or pure leisure.
states june 2 nd Fortnight issue 2022 TravTalk 9
States ready for big tourism leap
Two years after the pandemic brought tourism to a halt in the country, the industry looks well set for recovery. State
tourism boards are planning a slew of measures, including media campaigns and other promotional strategies, to
revive the confidence of travel fraternity and prepare them to take out maximum advantage of the opportunities.
Janice Alyosius motional schemes. For example, not just in the big cities like Delhi, Gujarat held its first major blog- tional visitors visiting Jammu and der the scheme, a facilitation
under the heritage certification Bombay and Chennai, but also in gers meet in December, in which Kashmir,” he said. center and other passenger fa-
A
research conducted by the scheme, the government will cer- B towns on the state’s outskirts,” bloggers from all over the country cilities, entrance gate etc. will be
World Travel & Tourism tify heritage buildings, especially he added. were invited to various destina- Tourism contributes towards constructed in Yamunotri Dham.
Council (WTTC) has re- heritage hotels used for wedding tions of Gujarat. 15.45 per cent of Uttarakhand's
vealed that the travel and tourism and film shootings, by which the “These B2B meetings and road- GDP. The state has seen a He further revealed that the
sector’s contribution to the Indian owners of heritage buildings can shows are being held with the Mukherjee said the state govern- constant growth rate of approxi- government is promoting off-
economy could surpass the pre- get subsidised bar licences or ex- objective of boosting the confi- ment is playing a key role in build- mately 12 per cent of tourism beat and newer destinations to
pandemic levels this year with a cise bar licences at less than 50 dence and preparing travel frater- ing up a bridge between travel arrivals for the last 10 years. evenly distribute tourism ben-
year-on-year growth of 20.7 per per cent rate. Furthermore, the nity since the market is going to agents from all over India and the Colonel Ashvin Pundir, Addi- efits all around the state. New
cent. The WTTC’s Economic suppliers from Gujarat. “The prime tional CEO, Uttarakhand Tourism adventure locations like Tehri,
Impact Report says the sec- thing the government is focusing Development Board revealed Nayar Valley, Marchula for the
tor’s contribution to the nation’s on at present is to develop the that the government has initiated tourist who wants to explore the
economy could reach almost agent base to facilitate smooth multiple development projects unexplored are being developed
`15.9 trillion (U.S. $215 billion) operation. In November-December to improve the infrastructure and publicised. Besides this,
in 2022, 1 per cent above 2019 when the Rann Utsav and other around all religious sites, to a new Trekking traction cen-
levels. The Union Ministry of winter products of the state will
Tourism and state governments, start, by end of this season Gujarat
optimistic over the recovery, are anticipates to reach pre-pandemic
working towards promoting India levels in tourism,” he said.
with new offerings to the visitors. Pawan Jain Anjit Mukherjee
Campaigns and roadshows are Joint Director Deputy Manager Zeeshan Khan, Assistant
Department of Tourism, Rajasthan Tourism Corporation of Gujarat
being held in each state with the Director, Department of
objective of boosting the confi- Tourism, Kashmir, said that the
dence of travel fraternity. state government is working on
Tourism units B2B meetings confidence building measures, as
Pawan Jain, Joint director, the industry dipped in the last two Zeeshan Khan Ashvin Pundir
Department of Tourism, like hotels, and roadshows years. “The government hosted Assistant Director Additional CEO, Uttarakhand Tourism
Department of Tourism, Kashmir Development Board
Rajasthan, said that the
Rajasthan government has allo-
resorts and are being held roadshows and media cam-
paigns in various states via dif-
cated a budget of `600 crores for museums in with objective ferent platforms to promote and
the development of tourist plac-
Rajasthan will of boosting the educate consumers about their J&K has State tourism
es. Additional `400 crores has new offerings. To mark 75 years
been allocated for marketing and pay tariff on confidence of of Independence, Jammu and identified department
promotions. The government, in
industrial rates travel fraternity Kashmir has identified 75 offbeat 75 offbeat is working to
cooperation with the hotel and destinations, 38 in Kashmir, 37
tourism association of Rajasthan, in Jammu,” he said. “The Union destinations, 38 develop and
plans to organise an event for do-
mestic tour operators from 22 to state is also focusing on promot- boom very soon and the industry
Territories famous for their natu-
ral beauty and picturesque loca-
in Kashmir and improve
24 July in Jaipur, Jain said. ing rural tourism, for which the needs agents and other travel tions are favourite destinations 37 in Jammu to facilities at
government is planning a rural partners to be ready with all the for tourists across the world.
Rajasthan has witnessed a good tourism scheme, which will be knowledge about destinations. Jammu is famous for its temples,
promote them Char Dhams
number of domestic tourists in launched soon, he added. The government of Gujarat plans while Kashmir Valley is known for
the summer season. As the com- to educate, motivate and prepare its lakes and gardens,” he added.
mercial flights have resumed, the Anjit Mukherjee, Deputy the industry once again,” he said. make it easier and more com- ter policy has been developed
state anticipates increase in the Manager, Tourism Corporation Khan revealed that the govern- fortable for the tourists visiting where the government is giving
influx of foreign tourists in com- of Gujarat, said that the state As a part of marketing and pro- ment has started adventure activ- the state for religious tourism. subsidy to the people to develop
ing days. The state also plans to never took a pause during the motional activities, the govern- ities like paragliding, rafting and The department is continuously homestays in this region where
attract investors with sops. Tour- pandemic and has been continu- ment of Gujarat has been doing hot air balloon to attract tourists. working to develop and improve the treks are taking place. In ad-
ism units like hotels, resorts and ously working to promote tour- campaigns and outdoor adver- “Due to the rigorous promotions, facilities at the Char Dhams. Last dition, the government is also
museums will be paying tariff on ism. He said the government is tisements, besides familiarisation Jammu and Kashmir had record year, `12,000 crores have been making trekking traction centers
industrial rates, which is almost planning to host roadshows to trips. The government is hosting high tourist footfall and witnessed spent for the construction of all- in these areas, there are about
25 per cent less than the com- boost the confidence of travel bloggers meet to promote the 2,80,000 visitors in April 2022 it- weather road of over 880 kms 13 destinations in Uttarakhand,
mercial rate, Jain said. The state agents. “Several B2B agent state and its tourist attractions. self,” he said. and improved infrastructure to from where the treks start and
has come up with some new pro- meetings have been conducted In association with India Tourism, facilitate tourism is being planned these are the locations where
Khan also highlighted the state’s in Yamunotri and Gangotri Dham infrastructure development is
24-hour active grievance re- at a cost of `54.35 crores. Un- taking place.
dressal system, which makes
sure that a complaint is resolved
within 24 hours, and so the tour-
ists feel satisfied. “After the re- Important measures by states
opening of borders, Kashmir has v Rajasthan has allocated `600 crores for development of tourist
observed international tourist ar- sites. `400 crores has been allocated for promotions.
rivals from Bangladesh, Russia, v Gujarat is planning to bridge the gap between the travel agents
England, US and Thailand. There from across India and the suppliers from the state.
is a good inflow of international v Jammu and Kashmir has identified 75 offbeat destinations, 38
tourists, which makes us confi- in Kashmir and 37 in Jammu for promotion.
dent that through our campaigns
and promotional activities, we v Uttarakhand has developed new trekking traction centre policy
will have even more interna- to provide subsidy for developing homestays.
10 TravTalk june 2 nd Fortnight issue 2022 hotels
Hospitality embraces wellness
India is known for its ancient wellness practices around the world, and the pandemic has once again reinforced its
importance in the field. As people are discovering new sense of staying healthy and adopting natural way of life,
properties and wellness retreats in the country are offering unique therapies and treatments.
Nisha Verma other hormonal changes in men. Himalayan wellness Invigorating all senses ing day of exploration ahead in based on adventure sports, hon-
The uniqueness of the programme Situated amid the picturesque Jitendra Varshney, Spa & Well- Dharamshala,” he elaborated. eymoon, romance and long week-
H
otels, resorts and wellness lies in its application of traditional Himalayas, The Khyber Spa by ness Director, Six Senses Fort ends,” he said.
retreats across India, are Chinese medicine techniques to L’OCCITANE, located within the Barwara, claims that they believe Promotions & engagements
offering a range of therapies accurately diagnose the underly- The Khyber Himalayan Resort in extensive Ayurvedic and per- When it comes to spreading the Rajpurohit shared, “The group
and programmes from not only In- ing body imbalances leading to & Spa, provides an experience sonalised wellness programmes word about these unique therapies yoga sessions, along with a
dia but around the world for both the disruption in hormonal sys- of provence in Gulmarg, along based on the preventative prin- and treatments, hotels are adopt- host of other engagement ac-
inbound and domestic travellers. tems and its integration of vari- with stunning views, shares ciples of Eastern medicine and re- ing various methods. tivities, are offered at no addi-
Some of these treatments and ous traditional Oriental therapies Vinit Chhabra, General Man- sult-oriented Western influences. tional charge to all our in-house
therapies are worth trying. such as Acupuncture, Cupping, ager, The Khyber Himalayan “Ananda has been building aware- guests. We actively highlight
Moxibustion, Tibetan Kuu Nye, Resort & Spa, Gulmarg, UT J&K. “Transcendent Sound Journey ness of these unique offerings and promote these through
Addressing hormonal health Kundalini and Japanese Shiatsu. “With three single treatment is a 60-minute treatment and is through educational workshops to our social media channels to
Indian wellness is synonymous Phases such as menopause are rooms and two couple suites, offered in our sacred medita- travel partners and our guests in create awareness among pro-
with Ananda in the Himalayas, also an emotional roller coaster each with its own private steam tion hall using different sizes of residence, supplemented by direct spective guests. The sales team
which is famous worldwide for its for women, including symptoms chamber, it is a place to unwind
wellness programmes. of sadness, irritability, anxiety and and be pampered, be it after an
exhilarating ski session, or a lei-
surely walk in the dense woods
or meadows, or at the beginning
of your day. The spa brings to
life the invigorating climate of
Gulmarg. Be it spring, summer,
autumn or winter, guests can
choose from a repertoire of
signature treatments specially Jitendra Varshney Rajesh Rajpurohit Puneet Dhawan
crafted with home grown sea- Spa & Wellness Director General Manager Senior Vice President Operations
Six Senses Fort Barwara Radisson Blu Resort Dharamshala Accor India and Sourth Asia
Mahesh Natarajan Vinit Chhabra sonal flora combined with origi-
Chief Operating Officer General Manager, The Khyber Himalayan nal L’OCCITANE products and
Ananda in the Himalayas Resort & Spa, Gulmarg, UT J&K
pure water from the springs in
the Himalayas,” he added. Transcendent Wellness An element
Ananda now Be it spring, Desert rose Sound Journey activities has of uniqueness
offers summer
Emotional wellbeing is an inte- is a 60-minute been started for of the Raffles
gral pillar of the Raffles Udaipur,
emotional or winter, claims Puneet Dhawan, Senior treatment and is resident guests Spa lies in its
healing and guests can
Vice President Operations, Ac-
cor India and Sourth Asia. “At the
offered in to elevate the personalised
therapy choose from a Raffles Spa, an impeccable blend our sacred entire stay wellness
of healing techniques take guests
spearheaded by repertoire of on a revitalising journey of emo-
meditation hall experience offerings
tional well-being and provide a
holistic experts treatments unique space for rejuvenation of
the mind, body and soul. An ele- crystal and metal singing bowls, communication and social media. also includes details on the
ment of uniqueness of the Raffles ocean sound drum and gong. The The hugely positive response that activities to their sales pitching to
Sharing one of their unique mood changes. Ananda now of- Spa lies in its personalised well- healing sounds of the gong and our clients have shown post in- B2B partners.”
therapies, Mahesh Natarajan, fers emotional healing and therapy ness offerings. Holistic person- singing bowls reverberate in your troduction of this programme has
Chief Operating Officer (COO), spearheaded by holistic experts alised therapies are thoughtfully innermost self. It gives you an op- been amplified by word of mouth At Six Senses Fort Barwara, it
Ananda in the Himalayas, says, drawing from fields of clinical psy- created through consultations portunity to experience your true, and references to their respec- has been integrated as a wel-
“The Ananda Rebalance pro- chology, energy therapy, hypnosis with the guests at the Raffles limitless nature,” he claimed. tive networks. Ananda’s team of come ritual for the guests arriving
gramme has been designed to and NLP, which blend seamlessly Spa, to remedy any imbalances doctors are available for online at the hotel. Varshney shares, “All
address hormonal health, both into the programme to address in the life-forces or doshas, while Yoga amid mountains consultations,” shared Natarajan. the treatments and activities un-
for menopause in women as well emotional stress caused primarily taking you on a journey of true Rajesh Rajpurohit General dertaken at the Six Senses Spas
as changes in testosterone and by these hormonal imbalances.” relaxation,” he said. Manager, Radisson Blu Resort Chhabra revealed that they work begin and finish with a spa spe-
Dharamshala, shares that they closely with the travel trade com- cialist striking the singing bowls.
have introduced a series of well- munity to promote The Khyber. The practice creates curiosity in
ness as well as nature centric “Other than the traditional market- guests' mind resulting in them
engagement activities for resi- ing activities like print advertise- immersing in a full session of
dent guests to elevate the entire ment campaigns and using social sound journey. The practice is
stay experience. “Guided group media to build our brand, we use being promoted across the web-
yoga sessions are organised by public relations very effectively to site and social media as part of
the poolside every morning. The promote the property. And as we the brand’s commitment to well-
scenic backdrop of the Kangra are promoting Gulmarg as a year- being. Also, we are engaging with
valley, fresh mountain breeze round destination, we have special the travel trade, which most of
and gentle yoga stretches set packages for various seasons as the time is done by our corporate
the tone for an active yet relax- well as special interest packages sales and marketing team.”
Scandinavia is exemplary in its engagement and awareness of sustainability, where
65 per cent of travel businesses already have implemented a sustainability strategy,
according to Euromonitor’s Voice of the Industry Sustainability Survey (July 2020).12 TravTalk jUNE 2 nd Fortnight issue 2022 coverstory
Ayush visa attracting foreign tourists
Contd from page 3
"very good" response from the into India because we are al-
the hotels and the tour operators European market for Ayurveda ready very cost-effective when it
with whom they have booked,” and Yoga. “The response is good comes to medical tourism. Also,
he said. in that category and we can pro- now the world is focusing a lot on
mote India,” he added. Ayurveda and Yoga. If the bene-
Ravi Gosain, Vice President, fits of Ayurveda are showcased
IATO, also agrees that Ayush visa States' focus on wellness as a dedicated promotional cam-
is the step in the right direction Prateek Hira, Chairman, IATO, UP paign, I am sure wellness tour-
by the Union government. “There Rajnish Kaistha
Chapter agrees that India is being Prateek Hira
ism will flourish in India.” Sejoe Jose
are many people who come for Secretary, IATO projected as a wellness and alter- Chairman, IATO, UP Chapter Chairman - IATO Southern Region
healing purposes to India and native therapy destination. “The Innovative solution
not just regular medical treat- government's focus on wellness Sharing his views, Sunil Singh
and not specifically for critical is one of the major reasons for and wellness tourism in view of Rana, Chairman – IATO Uttara- science of India to the world. This
medical care,” he added. tourists visiting India,” he added. the recent policy. The launch of khand Chapter, said, “The intro- will be a superb strategy of cross-
Ayush visa for traditional medi- duction of Ayush visa category selling and making India a global
According to Rajnish Kaistha, cal tourism is certainly going
Secretary, IATO, the govern- to be a major step to boost
ment’s idea behind the Ayush inbound traffic to India with a
visa is to give a proper name of theme ‘Heal in India’.”
Ayush tourism to India’s cen-
turies old healing traditions like Sejoe Jose, Chairman - IATO
Ravi Gosain
Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, our old Southern Region, said that In-
Vice President, IATO medicines and yoga. “With Ay- dia, despite being the birthplace
ush visa, the government is look- Sunil Mishra
of Ayurveda was losing a lot of
ing at not only boosting medical Honorary Treasurer, IATO wellness business to Sri Lanka
ment. Ayush is the way forward tourism, but also alternate medi- and other South Eastern coun- Debjit Dutta Sunil Singh Rana
for them and Ministry of Ayush is cines aiming at holistic healing of tries. “Ayush visa will definitely Chairman, IATO West Bengal Chapter Chairman – IATO Uttarakhand Chapter
aggressive in promoting through the body,” he added. What more is needed help India regain that lost busi-
embassies overseas. It will be Debjit Dutta, Chairman, IATO ness and bring in a lot more
a good step and there will be a Getting inbound interest West Bengal Chapter, said, “I conections to the country. The is a very innovative idea not only brand in the alternative medicine
new segment for people who just Sunil Mishra, Honorary Treasurer, am happy to note that the MOT government must come out with to promote tourism in India, but segment along with boosting
come for alternative therapies IATO, said that they are getting is focusing more on medical the benefits for tourists coming to showcase the ancient medical inbound tourism.
Centara signs hotel in Thailand Wellness holidays are investment
Centara Hotels & Resorts have joined hands with Baansuay Group for Health and wellness are on top of mind for people than ever before, and
first property in Surat Thani under the Centra by Centara brand, which will they are not just going on wellness holidays for this, but also leading an
welcome guests from July 2023. active and healthy lifestyle to keep themselves fit.
People are now taking health, From our recent visit to India,
Nisha Verma of a second phase is expected for leisure and MICE travellers fitness and wellness more seri- we gathered that Indian corpo-
in early 2025, which will see the seeking to explore the province’s ously than before and hence
C
rates and groups are looking for
entara Hotels & Resorts construction of a new building natural and cultural charms,” asking for such holidays. We activities that rejuvenate and re-
and Baansuay Group to house additional facilities, in- said Thirayuth Chirathivat, have many health getaways in connect teams and colleagues.
(Suratthani) have signed cluding large function room, fit- Chief Executive Officer, Centara India that are very good and do- Spa tourism or wellness tourism
a Hotel Management Agree- ness centre and swimming pool. Hotels & Resorts. ing an honest job. I normally tend is at the forefront of group travel
ment (HMA) for Centra by to recommend my clients places as well as destination weddings
Centara Hotel Surat Thani. The “We are excited to announce “We are delighted to be partner- like Naad Wellness, Vana Retreat, for the Indian market having
agreement was executed by the partnership with Baansuay ing with Centara for their first Prakriti Shakti, some of the other Anshu Tejuja spoken to many planners dur-
Managing Director, Ashoka Dream Holidays
senior executives from the two Group (Suratthani) PCL. for Cen- hotel in Surat Thani. With their CGH Earth places and several ing our sales trip. As an interna-
companies at a ceremony held tra by Centara Hotel Surat Thani, excellent reputation and track re- good places in Kerala depending Wellness tourism picking up tional MICE destination, Desaru
at Centara’s flagship Centara our twelfth Centra by Centara- cord, we are confident that Cen- on the need. I hope people start among Indian travellers. Today a Coast has four world-class spas.
Grand & Bangkok Convention looking at taking a wellness holi- lot of fitness and wellness enthu- One&Only Desaru Coast features
Centre at CentralWorld. day as an investment to oneself siasts are shifting their lifestyle the first ultra-luxury Chenot Spa
and not a spa vacation. There is patterns towards clean eating, in Asia. Anantara Desaru Coast
Surat Thani is the largest of a science involved and each body yoga, sleep, natural forms of cure Resort and Villas' spa is widely
Thailand’s southern provinces is different. I think one should ap- and exercise. I see a huge de- acknowledged as one of the best
and is a main transit point for proach experienced curators to mand for people seeking wellness globally for traditional Thai and
travellers en route to some of seek wellness. holidays. For wellness holidays in Malaysian massages.
the Kingdom’s most famous is- India I recommend Ananda in the
lands, including Koh Samui and Himalayas, Vana, Shreyas Retreat
Koh Phangan. The new project Bangalore, CGH Earth and so on. I
includes the complete renova- speak to the client and know what
tion of an existing low-rise hotel, are they exactly looking for and
with work currently underway. what is their purpose and recom-
The hotel is expected to open flagged property, and Centara’s tra by Centara Hotel Surat Thani mend accordingly. Internationally,
on 1 July 2023 after the renova- first hotel in Surat Thani. Centra will become a new landmark we also recommend Chiva Som,
tion of 110 rooms, all-day dining by Centara’s positioning of el- for travellers exploring south- Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, The
Dim Sum restaurant, casual in- evating the essentials by deliv- ern Thailand,” said Piriya Tan- Farm and many such options.
Clients mainly seek cure through Roslina Arbak
style Japanese restaurant and ering great quality at excellent erananonth, CEO of Baansuay Nagsri Prasad Sashidhar
MD & CEO, Desaru Development
Chief Happiness Officer healty lifestyle.
meeting room. The completion value make this an ideal brand Group (Suratthani) PCL. Holdings One Sdn. Bhd.
NAGSRI (Mumbai) Inputs by Hazel JainAssociations june 2 nd Fortnight issue 2022 TravTalk 13
‘Collaborative efforts need of the hour’
At a time when the hospitality industry is on a recovery path, MP Bezbaruah, Secretary General, HAI, says that
the industry and the government should come together to discuss, debate and devise safe ways for the future and
facilitate the hospitality industry to grow to its full potential and contribute to inclusive growth.
Nisha Verma hotels, reducing their gestation hotels and allow them to use sur- and pan India bankruptcies. The has done a lot of work in recent He added that they will continue
period making hotel investments pluses generated for ploughing committee believes that there years on promoting ‘ease of do- to pursue the issues at every
H
otel Association of India more attractive. This will open up back into the business. Both have is an imperative need to accord ing business’. Bodies like RBI level possible and work together
(HAI) has been engaging vast opportunities for the sector been long-standing demands of infrastructure status to hotel proj- have recognised that the industry with the government in creating
with the government at the sector. ects with capex above `25 crore is amongst the most stressed a conducive environment for the
various levels. MP Bezbaruah, (excluding land) and include the industry to grow and flourish and
Secretary General, HAI, said, Pushing for infra status same in the infrastructure lending continue to make sizeable contri-
“HAI has always emphasised Bezbaruah revealed that HAI list of the RBI. We are very hope- butions to the national economy
the importance of collaborative has recently had some engag- ful of a positive development,” We have in terms of GDP, jobs, inclusive
partnership with the government. ing interactions on the demand he emphasised. growth and achieving all that in
Considering the well-recognised of ‘Infrastructure status’. “The focused on a sustainable manner benefitting
and very important role that the demand has been captured and Issues at hand policy communities at large.
industry plays in employment recommended by the MOT in the Commenting on other significant
creation and boosting inclusive draft document of National Tour- issues that impact the industry, formulations ECLGS scheme
growth, we have focused on pol-
icy formulations that will promote
MP Bezbaruah
Secretary General, HAI
ism Policy. It may be pertinent
to mention here that in its 295th
he said, “Rationalisation of GST,
shortage of skilled personnel,
that will promote Bezbaruah shared that the
Emergency Credit Line Guaran-
the growth and development of report titled ‘Potential of Tourist excessive and heavy licencing, growth of hotels tee Scheme (ECLGS), its recent
hotels in the long run.” to provide employment to a wide Spots in the country - Connectiv- cumbersome procedures for ap- extension up to March 2023
spectrum of job seekers from the ity and Outreach’ placed before provals of hotel projects, reduced
in the long run and earmarking of an additional
He added that two key interven- unskilled to the specialised, even both the houses on 27 July 2021, reward point in of SEIS, DGFT `50,000 crore for hospitality
tions can help the industry. “Ac- in the remote parts of the coun- the Department-related Parlia- guidelines for schemes such as and related sectors have all been
cording to hotels, the status of an try,” he claimed. mentary Standing Committee on EPCG that need to be reviewed in and have included the sector in welcome initiatives. “HAI has
‘Infrastructure Industry’ and al- Transport, Tourism and Culture, light of the unprecedented situ- the ECLGS Scheme. The scheme been requesting that the scheme
lowing hotels to avail the benefits Similarly, the benefits of industry observes that the hospitality in- ation of nil to negligible foreign has been extended in the Union should be customised and tai-
currently available for the indus- like lower utility tariffs, property dustry is in huge distress under exchange earnings for hotels in Budget of 2022-23 and more lored to suit the unique hotel busi-
try. Securing infrastructure status tax and licence fees will reduce the impact of the pandemic and the last couple of years. Due to funds have been made available ness model and future outlook for
would facilitate soft financing of the fixed operational costs of is looking at mass unemployment the pandemic, the Government to the sector under the scheme.” the sector,” he said.
‘This year will be wellness year’ Networking get together
With importance of wellness being felt more after Covid-19,
hotels are creating wellness packages, says Gagan Katyal,
Head of Sales and Marketing, Ananta Hotels and Resorts.
Janice Alyosius ity industries have been badly
hit. Currently, Ananta hotels
I
ndia's tourism industry stands is working on campaigns and
to benefit greatly from the packages to offer guests whole-
growth of wellness tourism. some experience of wellness
Gagan Katyal, Head of Sales and and experiential stay. Katyal said
Marketing, Ananta Hotels and that wellness tourism segment
Resorts, says that the past two has accelerated around the world
years have been traumatic, and
everyone is anxious to return to a Gagan Katyal
Head of Sales and Marketing
normal and healthy life. Ananta Hotels and Resorts
Financial aid
“This is an ideal time for wellness
tourism to grow. This year will be able atmosphere to be chosen
is one of the
a bumper year for wellness tour- for wellness,” he added. challenges that
ism perceiving the ongoing trend,”
Katyal said. The Ministry of Tourism (MOT) the government
He said the major contributing
has formulated a National Strat-
egy and Roadmap for Medical
needs to
factors behind the success of and Wellness Tourism in order address on
India in wellness tourism may
include ayurveda, yoga, geog-
to create a robust framework
and synergy among the central
priority
raphy, trained manpower and government ministries, state
developed infrastructure. “We governments and private sec-
have a team of specialised staff tor for promoting India as a and is quite popular among Indian
that works hard to provide our medical and wellness tourism domestic and inbound travellers.
guests with the best service. destination. Katyal said that fi- “Developing and offering well-
We are studying and developing nancial assistance is one of the ness facilities and consultations
the current facilities to achieve challenges that the government is a serious subject for them, and The Enterprising Travel Agents Association (ETAA) – North India Chapter conducted a networking session in Delhi recently.
that edge. Our locations are se- needs to address on priority, they are working very hard to do The event was attended by more than 100 travel agent members, travel fraternity associates and partners. Some dignitaries
were honoured and lucky draws were announced at the event.
rene and thus create a favour- since the tourism and hospital- so,” he added.You can also read
