Mr M R Synrem, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Govt of India while highlighting the importance of India’s G20 Presidency said that Indian travel and tourism sector is providing an unparalleled opportunity to highlight India’s tourism offerings and success stories on the global stage. “The Tourism Track meetings under the G20 focused on key areas like sustainable development, digitalization and promotion of inclusive growth,” he added.

Addressing ‘FICCI’s 5th Digital Travel, Hospitality & Innovation Summit 2023’, Mr Synrem stated that the Ministry of Tourism is working on key identified priority areas with major focus on digitalization. “The National Integrated Database of Hospitality Industry (NIDHI) is one of the initiatives of the ministry towards Atmanirbhar Bharat using technology to empower our businesses. ‘NIDHI’ is not just a database but poised to become a major gateway to opportunities in the hospitality industry.”

Speaking on the initiatives of the government, Mr Synrem said that the Ministry is developing platforms for personalization and traveler engagement. “Today, digital technology allows us to collect and analyze data to create personalized experience. The Ministry will soon introduce several new initiatives with the existing helpline number ‘1363’ to address safety and security concerns of the travelers. We are working towards digitalization in the travel and tourism industry,” he noted.

Mr Synrem further stated that post COVID, India has adopted technology in almost every sector. “Digital technology and innovation have revolutionized the travel and tourism industry and providing numerous benefits and enhancing the overall experience of travelers,” he added.

Mr Dipak Deva, Chairperson, FICCI Tourism & Culture Committee & MD, Travel Corporation of India Ltd said that in this dynamic world marked by unprecedented technological advancements, the digital transformation journey is not an option but a necessity. “In this context, the travel and hospitality industry where the experience is everything, this transformation is especially critical,” he emphasized.

Mr Ashish Kumar, Co-Chairperson, FICCI Travel Technology & Digital Committee said, “The travel industry is an extended arm and the largest segment of e-commerce sector. It is important to understand that everyone is now a consumer, not just a customer.”