TBM Staff - Mumbai
Kerala is set to become the safest tourism destination in the world as the government announces plans to draft a special policy aimed at making the tourism sector completely women-friendly. Tourism Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas revealed today that an audit report assessing the current environment for women in Kerala’s tourism industry has been prepared. This report will be presented at the upcoming Global Women Conference on Gender Inclusive and Responsible Tourism, held in Mankulam near Munnar. The three-day event, organized by the Kerala Responsible Tourism Mission Society (KRTMS) in collaboration with Kerala Tourism and UN Women, marks the world’s first Responsible Tourism conference focusing on gender inclusivity and women-friendliness.
During the conference, which was inaugurated by Devikulam MLA Shri A Raja, participants including international experts will discuss the findings of the gender audit and explore further steps to enhance Kerala’s tourism landscape. Idukki MP Shri Dean Kuriakose expressed pride in hosting the conference, highlighting Idukki’s reputation as a premier tourism destination. Dr. Harold Goodwin, Global Chairman of the International Centre for Responsible Tourism, commended Kerala for its pioneering efforts in presenting a gender audit before formulating a gender-inclusive tourism policy. He lauded Kerala’s commitment to democracy as a driving force behind its leadership in responsible tourism.
Kerala Tourism Secretary Shri Biju K emphasised the department’s dedication to creating a safe and inclusive environment for women tourists, while Kerala Tourism Director Smt Sikha Surendran announced plans for regular audits to continuously improve women-friendly initiatives. Shri Rupeshkumar K, CEO, State Responsible Tourism Mission Society described the conference as a significant milestone in achieving 100% gender justice and safe travel for women. The event also featured a three-day exhibition and B2B networking sessions, providing opportunities for collaboration and the exchange of innovative ideas. Women entrepreneurs and grassroots heroines in the tourism sector were celebrated and honored, underscoring Kerala’s commitment to empowering women in tourism.
Since its inception in 2008, Kerala’s Responsible Tourism initiative has grown into a vast grassroots network with over 25,000 registered units, 17,632 of which are owned or led by women. More than 52,000 people have directly benefited, and 98,432 have indirectly benefited from these activities, primarily in rural areas. The Responsible Tourism projects not only promote art, craft, and traditional livelihoods but have also earned numerous national and international accolades. As Kerala continues to advance its gender-inclusive policies, it sets a benchmark for other regions to follow, fostering a more equitable and safe tourism environment worldwide.
