FITUR 2023: Talks with Mr. Rakesh Kumar Verma, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, India

Mr. Rakesh Kumar Verma, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, the Government of India, said, “It is truly an important strategic decision to be here at FITUR. It has helped our tourism industry connect with major stakeholders from around the world.”

In this exclusive interview, he focuses on:

Promoting offbeat tourism destinations
It is now necessary to promote the most lesser-known destinations around the country to avoid over-tourism in popular places in the country.

Value of sustainability
The sustainability is one of the major key-point in tourism sector throughout the world. There are many destinations in India, where the sustainability is promoting. We promote sustainable tourism as a major key role to enhance the market in Indian tourism.

E-Visa introduction has made an easy to many international tourists. It is because the international tourists can come to Indi can enjoy.

He also highlights on:
Promotion of homestays
Working closely on reduction of carbon footprint
Working closely with the different state governments in India to make tourism more accessible to the people that can regenerate Indian economy
Privatization of railways and airports to boost travel and tourism with a better service to the tourists.

The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India participated in FITUR from the 18th to 22nd of January in Madrid which is one of the world’s largest international travel exhibitions. In cognizance of the situation after the pandemic, this participation is significant to step up the recovery of inbound tourism to pre-pandemic levels.

The Ministry of Tourism took a space of 253 sq. meters, with over 30 participants co-exhibiting with the India Pavilion to participate in the Exhibition. The India Pavilion was graced by the presence of the King and Queen of Spain and was formally inaugurated by His Excellency, Mr Dinesh K. Patnaik, Dr Abhay Sinha, DG SEPC, Indian Ambassador to Spain, Mr Mohammed Riyas, Hon’ble Minister of Tourism, Kerala, and Mr Rakesh Kumar Verma, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. The Inauguration of the India Pavilion was done with Ribbon Cutting followed by Indian cultural performances and Yoga sessions.