It’s been over six months our fight is still on to control the pandemic and reducing the aftereffects created by the spread out of the COVID-19. Though India has entered into the ‘Unlock 4.0’ from September but encouraging people to go out for a vacation would be a herculean task.
According to the President of Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India, PP Khanna, under such circumstances, the national representative body of domestic tour operators is gearing up to play a very crucial role in reviving tourism with utmost responsibility. The association is making all efforts to expedite activities, and facilitating a strong communication between the government and the industry stakeholders.
Elaboration more on restoring travel activities, Khanna says that in the prevailing situation domestic tourism is the only hope for the people to choose to travel with family within the state or neighbouring destinations for their vacations. “Stakeholders of the tourism industry can begin their start-up programmes by promoting domestic tourism which acts as a shock absorber in the crisis of the present nature –COVID-19,” said Khanna.
It is expected that people may avoid long trips initially; however the tourism business will be bounced back once after their confidence is restored. For that industry needs to adopt ‘New Normal’ and organise trips in safe and hygiene atmosphere.
Talking about the recent initiatives, he further said that the association has walked hand-in-hand with the Ministry of Tourism with largest members’ participation in the webinars ‘Dekho Apna Desh’ organised by MoT to enhance the knowledge of industry stakeholders on Indian tourist destinations, culture and cuisine etc.
Khanna proudly informed: “We have also received ‘members’ appreciation’ for facilitating such an excellent opportunity during the lockdown period, especially in today’s scenario when all eyes are looking at the domestic segment for revival of touristic activities.”
While elaborating on the various initiatives taken by the association, Khanna further informed that ADTOI had Chapter Meetings (virtual) and General House Meeting (virtual) with members on a pan India basis. “We dedicated this period to members by arranging ‘Knowledge Sessions’ through state tourism boards, hoteliers and other service providers who like to promote tourism through our members,” he added.
“On persistent demand from the state tourism boards and hoteliers we had organised webinars for the benefit of our members so that they can adopt ‘New Normal’ and provide better services to the clients post COVID-19 era,” he added.
Apart from this, ADTOI has been instrumental in taking up the issues with the Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Finance, Niti Ayog and PMO either directly or along with the FAITH, to seek relief to the crisis ridden industry stakeholders for their survival and revival during this unprecedented time of COVID-19 pandemic.
