Kerala Tourism Minister P A Mohammed Riyas speaks on the opening session of the two-day Kerala for All Conclave, a information conclave on inclusive and accessible tourism, organised collectively by Kerala Tourism and The Hindu in Kochi on Saturday, January 31, 2026.
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THULASI KAKKAT
Kerala Tourism Minister P A Mohammed Riyas on Saturday mentioned that inclusive and accessible tourism isn’t a particular service for a couple of, however a shared duty of governments, trade, stakeholders, communities and residents.
Inaugurating the two-day Kerala for All Conclave, a information conclave on inclusive and accessible tourism organised by The Hindu Group in affiliation with Kerala Tourism in Kochi, the Minister mentioned the State had taken step one on this path by drafting a design coverage— a first-of-its-kind initiative in India.
Taking a cue from Kerala’s initiative, a number of different States are actually developing with comparable design insurance policies, reflecting the rising acceptance and necessity of inclusive planning throughout the nation, he mentioned.
Emphasising that inclusive tourism enhances the standard of life for each guests and host communities, Riyas underscored the necessity for robust coverage assist, sturdy regulatory frameworks and the good use of expertise, together with assistive purposes and digital guides, to speed up the transformation.
Stressing the significance of eradicating bodily, social, informational and attitudinal limitations, the Minister mentioned the suitable to journey safely, comfortably and with dignity belongs to everybody. Accessibility, he famous, isn’t restricted to individuals with disabilities alone, but additionally advantages senior residents, households with younger kids, folks with non permanent accidents and all travellers. Barrier-free infrastructure akin to ramps, lifts, accessible bogs and well-designed public areas makes locations safer and extra snug for all.
He additionally highlighted the necessity for clear and easy-to-understand signage, accessible data and digitally inclusive platforms to boost the journey expertise. Nevertheless, infrastructure alone is inadequate, he mentioned, stating that educated and sensitised tourism personnel play a crucial position in creating inclusive hospitality environments. Inclusive tourism, he added, is constructed on common design rules that guarantee amenities and companies are usable by everybody with out the necessity for particular adaptation.
Accessible transportation, inclusive lodging and culturally delicate companies are important for a seamless tourism expertise, the Minister mentioned, including that inclusive tourism should additionally embrace cultural, linguistic and financial range. Group participation, he famous, is the spine of profitable inclusive tourism, making it extra significant, sustainable and socially inclusive.
The Tourism Division has initiated a venture within the Beypore constituency to develop it as a totally disabled-friendly constituency, in affiliation with a specialised company. The initiative is dedicated to making sure accessibility for all.
Riyas mentioned the collaboration between Kerala Tourism and The Hindu Group would open a brand new chapter in making journey and associated experiences extra democratic and inclusive.
Kerala Tourism Director S Sikha Surendran was current on the occasion. The Hindu Editor Suresh Nambath welcomed the gathering.
Revealed on January 31, 2026
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