NEW DELHI: Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat emphasized that tourism sustainability can only be achieved when it becomes “everybody’s business.”
Speaking at the Tourism Sustainability Summit 2025, organized by PHDCCI in collaboration with FH&RA at Hotel Le Meridien, New Delhi, Shekhawat urged the tourism industry to collaborate with the government to address sustainability challenges.
“The tourism sector presents both opportunities and challenges. Climate impacts, like changing rainfall patterns and shrinking glaciers, show the need for urgent action, just as we missed timely action on climate change in the past,” said Shekhawat, stressing that the sector’s growth must be mindful of environmental factors.
Highlighting India’s economic growth, Shekhawat noted that tourism is set to grow rapidly alongside the country’s economy, which is expected to double every 7-8 years. He concluded by urging participants to convert discussions into actionable steps to ensure sustainability in tourism.
Mr. Suman Billa, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, discussed the importance of mindful tourism growth. He underscored that tourism should be viewed as a shared responsibility, aligning with the Prime Minister’s Mission LiFE initiative, and emphasized the role of the Ministry of Tourism in promoting sustainability through programs like “Travel for LiFE.”
Mr. Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary (Tourism) of Madhya Pradesh, showcased his state’s commitment to responsible tourism, with over 500 protected monuments, 12 National Parks, and a focus on eco-tourism, tribal tourism, and rural tourism.
PHDCCI President Mr. Hemant Jain stressed that sustainability is no longer optional but a responsibility. “If we don’t act now, we risk losing market share,” he warned, adding that initiatives like this summit are crucial for strengthening India’s position in the tourism sector.
Amb. Manjeev Singh Puri, Chair of the India-Nepal Centre, PHDCCI, urged everyone to internalize sustainability in their organizations, stressing India’s commitment to net-zero emissions by 2070.
Mr. Glenn Mandziuk, CEO of the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance (UK), discussed the industry’s sustainability and human rights issues, emphasizing the need for collective action across the tourism sector.
Finally, Mr. K. Syama Raju, President of FHRAI, highlighted the importance of sustainability and the collective effort required for a greener, more inclusive future in tourism.
