Skill Development Essential for the Future of Kerala Tourism: Minister Riyas
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Synopsis
Kerala Tourism Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas emphasizes the importance of training and skill development in the evolving tourism sector, highlighting its potential to create opportunities for young entrepreneurs and innovators. The tourism industry in Kerala is experiencing significant growth with rising tourist arrivals and increasing revenue.
Key Takeaways
- Training and skill development are vital for tourism growth.
- The sector is diversifying into various verticals.
- Support for startups and MSMEs is a priority.
- Kerala aims for 20 percent GDP contribution from tourism by 2030.
- Total tourism revenue is nearing Rs 40,000 crore.
Thiruvananthapuram, April 24 (NationPress) Training and skill development are essential for the progressive evolution of the tourism sector, which is branching out into various verticals that offer significant opportunities for young entrepreneurs and innovators, stated Kerala Tourism Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas on Thursday.
Tourism in Kerala is now recognized as a lucrative industry in the state, witnessing a 13.76 percent increase in foreign tourist arrivals in 2024 compared to the previous year.
According to official statistics, about 7.38 lakh foreign tourists visited Kerala in 2024, alongside a remarkable 2.22 crore domestic tourists arriving in the same year.
The Minister made these comments during the inauguration of a national seminar and panel discussion on ‘Innovations in Tourism Industry: Redefining Opportunities in a Dynamic Global Landscape,’ held by the Kerala Institute of Tourism and Travel Studies (KITTS) in collaboration with the Indian Society for Training and Development's (ISTD) Thiruvananthapuram chapter.
“As the tourism sector diversifies into various segments like responsible tourism, heritage tourism, and adventure tourism, young entrepreneurs and professionals must be innovative and develop new products,” Riyas remarked, noting that he is the son-in-law of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
“The State Tourism Department is dedicated to assisting startups and MSMEs in the tourism sector by offering incubation facilities, mentorship, and financial support,” he continued.
“We should concentrate on areas such as skill development, hospitality, language enhancement, digital literacy, and administrative skills. The academic prowess of KITTS, combined with ISTD’s industry insights, will boost the capabilities of our professionals, enabling them to compete on global platforms,” Riyas added.
The Kerala Tourism Department has initiatives aimed at supporting the entrepreneurial ambitions of local communities and youth, which will contribute to socio-economic development and integrated growth.
Notably, the total tourism revenue generated in Kerala is approaching a record Rs 40,000 crore, and Riyas aims to elevate tourism’s contribution to the state’s GDP from 12 percent to 20 percent by 2030.
