The recent roundtable hosted by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and Svayam marked a significant step in advancing the conversation on accessible tourism, hospitality, and sports in India. Held on March 26, 2026, in New Delhi, this initiative gathered a diverse group of stakeholders, including government officials, industry leaders, and advocates for disability rights, to discuss practical solutions for making tourism more inclusive.
Bridging Gaps in Accessibility
During the event, participants highlighted the pressing need for improved accessibility in India’s tourism sector. With tourism contributing approximately 9.2% to the country’s GDP, the potential market for accessible tourism is substantial. The roundtable emphasized that enhancing facilities for people with disabilities not only fulfills a social obligation but also opens up new economic opportunities. Originally reported by ET Hospitality.
“Accessibility should not be an afterthought; it must be a priority in our planning and execution,” stated Dr. Rakesh Kumar, Director of Svayam. His remarks resonated throughout the discussions, as stakeholders recognized the necessity of designing environments that cater to all. Attendees included representatives from the Ministry of Tourism, leading hotel chains, and NGOs focused on disability rights, all united in their commitment to foster an inclusive tourism landscape.
Collaborative Solutions for Inclusive Hospitality
One of the critical outcomes of the roundtable was the proposal for a collaborative framework among various stakeholders to address accessibility challenges. Industry leaders suggested the creation of a national task force dedicated to developing guidelines and best practices for accessible tourism. This task force would also serve as a platform for sharing successful case studies, thereby encouraging the adoption of accessible practices across the hospitality sector.
“We need to leverage technology to enhance accessibility,” remarked Priya Singh, a senior executive at a prominent hospitality group. Singh highlighted innovations such as mobile applications that provide real-time information about accessibility features in hotels and tourist attractions. The integration of technology can pave the way for a more inclusive experience, ensuring that all travelers can enjoy the beauty of India without barriers.
Sports as a Catalyst for Change
Another focal point of the discussion was the role of sports in promoting inclusivity. With India gearing up to host various international sporting events, stakeholders emphasized the importance of ensuring that all facilities are accessible to athletes and spectators with disabilities. The roundtable participants agreed that sports can be a powerful medium for social change and can inspire a broader movement toward accessibility.
“Sports teach us about teamwork, resilience, and inclusion; we must ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate,” said Arjun Mehta, a noted sports advocate. His comments underscored the need for accessible venues that accommodate athletes of all abilities, fostering a culture of inclusivity within the sports community.
Policy Recommendations and Future Directions
Following the discussions, the roundtable concluded with a set of actionable recommendations aimed at policymakers. These include the establishment of stricter regulations governing accessibility in public spaces, increased government funding for accessibility projects, and the implementation of awareness campaigns to educate the public on disability issues.
Moreover, stakeholders called for regular assessments of tourism facilities to ensure compliance with accessibility standards. “We can’t just set standards; we need to monitor and enforce them,” insisted Dr. Kumar. This proactive approach aims to create a more inclusive environment that not only benefits travelers with disabilities but also enhances the overall tourism experience for everyone.
The roundtable organized by CII and Svayam has laid a strong foundation for ongoing dialogue and action toward accessible tourism in India. By fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders, this initiative is poised to drive significant change in the industry.
As India continues to position itself as a premier tourist destination, the commitment to accessibility will not only enhance the visitor experience but also reflect the nation’s dedication to inclusivity and equality. The conversations sparked during this roundtable are just the beginning of what promises to be a transformative journey in the tourism sector.
Originally reported by ET Hospitality. View original.
