26 Sep 2023|Noida | Amity University, Noida
Experts deliberate upon “Smart Tourism and Green Investment” on
World Tourism Day, at Amity University
Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida campus, organized the 19th Symposium on the theme “Smart Tourism and Green Investment”, in collaboration with Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council (THSC), to commemorate World Tourism Day.
Addressing the gathering, the Guest of Honour, H.E. Ambassador H. Dillum, Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador of Mauritius in India, Embassy of Mauritius, stated, “Students are the future of the country and they must ensure that the industry thrives through technological advancement without having any adverse impact on the environment. Tourism is a driver for economic development. Infrastructure development along with technological advancement can shape the future of the tourism industry. The theme of the recently concluded G20 Summit was “Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam” which means “One earth, one family”, and tourism is the best way to bring the world closer and promote the exchange of knowledge and learning. In addition, the role of SMEs and start-ups is integral when it comes to green investments in the tourism industry.”
Deliberating upon Smart Tourism and Green Investments and Ms. Jyoti Mayal, President, Travel Agents Association of India, New Delhi & Chairperson, Tourism & Hospitality Sector Skill Council (THSC), stated, “Travel and tourism inspires us to learn new things and embrace adventures. ‘Vocal for local’ and ‘Make in India’ initiatives are the drivers of sustainable tourism. Tourism acts as a catalyst for change and students must stay abreast of the latest developments, be curious and never stop learning.”
Addressing the gathering, Ms. Shveta Sharma, COO Hotel -Spider, India, opined, “Technology has taken over all the sectors and has enabled many innovations and developments across various areas. Tourism industry needs to make full use of the new technologies so as to become more advanced and efficient. At the same time, the sustainability aspect cannot be ignored the industry must focus on reusing, recycling, reducing waste and adopting sustainable measures.”
Advising the students of Amity, Mr. Kush Kapoor, CEO, Roseate Group of Hotels, averred, “Today India is the fastest growing economy in the world and has the maximum number of internet and mobile users in the world. It is also the most employable population of the world. Therefore, this is a golden era for the students, and they must focus on “TIPS”, which stands for transparency, innovation, passion and simplicity.”
Highlighting the significance of the Programme, Mr. Rajan Sehgal, President (India Golf Tourism Association) (IGTA) and Chairman Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI), asserted, “The students must listen to each and every word of the experts who are addressing them today since they have years of experience in the industry and can provide them with some visionary guidance. Technology must be adopted but one should not become too dependent on technology and should also use their own skills and creativity in order to achieve their goals.”
Mr. Vinod Zutshi, IAS Retd. Former Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Govt of India, stated, “Digital information and services, personalization through data analytics, smart transportation, environmental monitoring and disaster management are some of the essential factors to be considered for smart tourism. In addition, sustainable environment, renewable energy community development and responsible tourism must be practiced to ensure that nature is conserved, and the environment remains safe for all.”
Speaking on the occasion, Prof (Dr) DK Bandyopadhyay, Chairman, Amity Law Schools, said, “Tourism helps in cross cultural exchange between two nationalities and brings us closer as communities. Around 4% of the global economy comprises of the tourism industry and therefore the need of the hour is to spread awareness about smart tourism which includes the use of technology and also introduce environment friendly policies in the tourism industry.”
Emphasizing upon the global opportunities for students of tourism provided by Amity, Dr. Gurinder Singh, Group Vice Chancellor Amity Universities, averred, Through the Apprenticeship Abroad Programs offered by Amity University, students can get the opportunity to go to any country for their apprenticeship, including US, UK, Australia, France amongst others and get hands on training by working in the tourism industry of these countries. Therefore, students must use this opportunity to the fullest and widen their horizons through global exposure provided by Amity.”
Welcoming the guests on the occasion, Prof (Dr) M. Sajnani, Dean, Faculty of Hospitality & Tourism, Director Amity Institute of Travel & Tourism, stated, “The aim of the symposium is to sensitize the students regarding the importance of Smart Tourism and Green Investments, which are very pertinent to the key pillars of the tourism industry in the current scenario. Sustainability is of utmost importance and therefore it is the responsible of each one of us to minimise carbon footprint and adopt eco-friendly practices. The deliberations by the galaxy of eminent guest speakers present today will enrich the students with immense knowledge and learning.”
During the Symposium, vibrant cultural programmes were presented by the students of Faculty of Hospitality & Tourism and prizes were awarded to winners of various competitions including Salad-making Competition, Debate Competition, Quiz Competition and Photography Competition.