Rajesh Arya, Vice President, Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India (ADTOI) & Managing Director, India International Tours & Travels believes that hassle-free interstate tourist movement will help in the growth of the domestic market. Following are the edited excerpts from his interview.
Q. How do you view the impact of Covid-19 pandemic on the tourism sector?
A. The Covid-19 pandemic has crippled the growth of different verticals of the tourism sector including inbound, domestic and outbound markets. The stakeholders of the tourism and hospitality segments are facing unprecedented economic stress with businesses coming to a standstill.
However, with different states allowing movement of tourists, I am hopeful that domestic tourism will act as a catalyst for the industry to revive. It is imperative that confidence is created amongst tourists that destinations and hotels are safe to travel. There have to be high hygiene standards in place in order to create a safe environment for tourists to enjoy their holidays.
Q. Can domestic tourism be the saviour for the industry in the present critical scenario?
A. The domestic market has always been the lifeline of the Indian tourism industry. In today’s scenario, it has gained more importance. The interstate tourist movement has to be hassle-free in order to generate demand from potential customers. The authorities need to dispel fear and confusion in the mind of travellers regarding quarantine policy or requirement of Covid-19 negative certification. A uniform policy across all states for tourists will be of great help. This will provide confidence to both business and leisure tourists.
Domestic tourism will be the only focus area for the first few quarters once the pandemic is over. People will be apprehensive about travelling long distances. So, weekend destinations will be in good demand.
I think people will prefer to drive on their own vehicles to explore nearby destinations. I expect to see demand for domestic tourism surge beginning October this year. The Ministry of Tourism and state tourism departments should brainstorm how to take domestic tourism ahead in the coming days. A synergy between central and state leadership will help the industry overcome challenges in an efficient way.
Q. How do you view the role of government in supporting the industry?
A. Many travel agencies are on the brink of closure, many have closed down too. Retaining staff has been impossible for us which has resulted in losses of jobs. This is a very difficult time for the government as well. It has to provide support to all the different industries.
We were expecting some relief in terms of an economic package but there was no announcement made in that regard. However, we hope that the government will take cognizance of our issues. A lot of businesses and professionals employed in the tourism sector have now moved to other industry verticals to weather the difficulties being faced by them
Q. What is your message to the industry?
A. My message to the fellow colleagues of the industry is that we need to remain positive. There will be many opportunities for us in the future. Good days are on the anvil and we have to hit at the right time. In the meantime, we should focus on our skills and knowledge.