Sustainability Tourism takes center stage as India made a remarkable presence at World Travel Market, London 2023

Key Highlights

“Incredible India” made an impressive impact at the World Travel Market (WTM) 2023
Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Ms. V. Vidyavathi participated in high-level engagements including UNWTO-­WTTC Tourism Ministers Summit and a panel discussion on empowering communities

The Ministry introduced its latest campaign, “Travel for LiFE,” aimed at mainstreaming sustainability
The Ministry of Tourism hosted a grand India Evening attended by over 200 key stakeholders from the UK hospitality and tourism sector

“Incredible India,” wrapped up its impressive presence at World Travel Market (WTM) 2023 with resounding success, solidifying India’s position as a must-visit global destination. WTM 2023, held from 6 to 8 November 2023 provided “Incredible India” with a unique platform to showcase the country’s diverse tourism products under the theme of ‘Visit India 2023’ with a dedicated focus on promoting sustainable tourism.

The Incredible India pavilion was inaugurated by H.E. Shri Vikram Doraiswami, High Commissioner of India to the UK and Ms. V. Vidyavathi, Secretary Tourism, Government of India in the presence of Shri Rohan Khaunte, Minister of Tourism, Government of Goa and other distinguished delegates.

Ms. V. Vidyavathi, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism actively participated in the UNWTO – WTTC Tourism Ministers Summit on ‘Transforming Tourism through Youth and Education’ held at Elevate Stage on the first day. On the second day, the Secretary Tourism contributed to a panel discussion ‘Engaging Communities in the Business of Tourism.’ Emphasing the significance of local communities in the tourism industry. The panel was skilfully moderated by Harold Goodwin, WTM Responsible Tourism Advisor, Responsible Tourism Partnership.

Ministry of Tourism hosted a spectacular India Evening at a five-star hotel in London on the second day of the event which was attended by more than 200 tour operators, travel agents, media, other prominent stakeholders from the hospitality and tourism industry based in the UK. The Secretaries of various State Governments and other delegates from India participated in WTM 2023 were also present.

Ms. V. Vidyavathi, Secretary, Tourism introduced the Ministry’s latest campaign, “Travel for LiFE,” with a primary objective to mainstream sustainability in the Indian tourism sector. This campaign aims to create more resilient, inclusive, carbon-neutral, and resource-efficient tourism while safeguarding natural and cultural resources.

“Travel for LiFE’ program will encourage tourists to take simple actions that result in conservation of the environment, biodiversity, improvement in the local economy and preservation of the socio-cultural integrity of the local communities. It aims to create mindful and deliberate utilization of resources by the stakeholders in the tourism value chain,” remarked Ms. V. Vidyavathi, Secretary Tourism.