Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida Campus organized a Seminar on the theme “Tourism for Viksit Bharat 2047: Driving Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Development”, to commemorate ‘World Tourism Day 2025’.
Addressing the students, Guest of Honour, Shriji Huzur Dr. Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar, 77th Custodian of the House of Mewar and Chairman & Managing Director, HRH Group of Hotels, averred, “Tourism industry is thriving in India, and more people of all age groups are travelling to new places. Way back when we started HRH Group of Hotels, we collaborated with Tata Group without any contract. Such was the level of trust and understanding between us that no documents were required. However, people have become more professional now and follow protocols and procedures. Today, India is leading the world in all spheres and the 21st century will be the century of India. Technology is great but human touch can never be replaced.”
Responding to a student’s query regarding his inspiration, he said, “I learnt from my parents, and they were a great source of inspiration for me. I was always open to learning and kept my eyes and ears open.”
Speaking about sustainability, innovation and technology, he further added, “Sustainability, innovation and technology are going to be the key drivers of the tourism industry so that we hand over things in a better condition to the next generation.”
Mr. Ravi Nandan Sinha, Director – Strategic Investments & Economic Partnerships, MSME Business Forum India, stated, “In India, we have special seasons for tourism when people travel to tourist destinations. However, countries such as UAE, Vietnam, Bali, Seychelles and Maldives attract tourists throughout the year and survive on tourism. These days, the demand is more for experiential tourism and people are willing to spend 30% of their income on experiential tourism. Boat Festivals are being organized in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal where people can experience joyful boat rides. 60% of the tourism in India is in the spiritual sector, however a shift can be seen, and wellness industry is attracting more tourists these days. There is a golden opportunity for startups, and many startups have been launched in the tourism sector which are offering various services. MSME support and government funding is being provided to the startups and therefore, students have a great opportunity to launch their own startups and become entrepreneurs.”
Mr. Amr Aly, Country Head, Egypt Air, said, “The international tourism industry is a significant contributor to global economic growth, generating $1.9 trillion in tourist spending in 2024, with $1.6 trillion from international travellers and $8.2 trillion from domestic tourism. In the year 2024, India witnessed 99 tourist arrivals and Indian government is strongly promoting the tourism sector making it one of the biggest contributors to the economy.”
Mr. Shivraj Singh, Founder & CEO, Atithi Voyages, said, “There are many unexplored places in India which have a lot of potential for tourism, but people are not aware of these places, however, the government is developing these places into tourist destinations. Tourism sector has a lot of potential and opportunities for the students. They can opt for a career in catering, hotel projects, aviation or food business. Education is important; however, the best learning is received on the job.”
Mr. Dimple Singh, COO, Creative Travels, said, “Tourism bridges the gaps between societies and culture, it is about livelihood and inclusivity. Tourism is a key driver of growth and development of the country. AI can never replace the warmth and affection which the tourists receive, since tourism is all about emotions. AI will make our lives easy but at the heart of it, human touch will always win. The future of tourism will not be written by machines, it will be written by the next generation.”
Prof (Dr) Balvinder Shukla, Vice Chancellor Amity University Uttar Pradesh, said, “The tourism industry in India is growing by leaps and bounds and in the next few years, India will be among the top 3 tourist destinations in the world. The Seminar is extremely significant for the students and students must listen to the Speakers so that they can learn how to develop the right skills and competencies.”
Welcoming the guests, Prof (Dr) M. Sajnani, Dean Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism, said, “Tourism is one of those areas where an integrated approach of development is essential and it can play a vital role as a catalyst for sustainable & inclusive growth by driving economic prosperity through job creation and income generation, stimulating local economies and preserving cultural heritage. Through the Viksit Bharat 2047 mission India aims to attract 100 million foreign in tourists making tourism US $ 3 trillion economy. Gen Z will contribute to the growth of the tourism industry, thereby achieving the goal of ViksitBharat@2047.”