Kerala Tourism Collaborates with Startups for Travel Innovation
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Kerala Tourism has joined forces with Kerala Startup Mission by signing a MoU to enhance tourism experiences through innovative solutions, technology, and new initiatives, aimed at boosting visitor engagement and satisfaction.
Key Takeaways
- Kerala Tourism and KSUM have signed a MoU.
- The partnership aims to boost tourism through technology.
- Plans for an innovation center are underway.
- Development of modern caravan parks is anticipated.
- Three pilot projects have been announced.
Thiruvananthapuram, January 22 (NationPress) The Kerala Tourism Department has entered into a partnership with the Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) by formalizing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at harnessing innovative solutions to elevate the tourism experience in the state.
During the signing event, State Tourism Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas emphasized that the integration of groundbreaking ideas and technologies from Kerala’s flourishing startup ecosystem could play a pivotal role in propelling the growth of the tourism sector.
“This financial year will witness the predominance of technology-driven innovations within the tourism industry, and this MoU will serve as a catalyst for that progression,” stated Riyas.
The partnership is set to transform Kerala’s tourism landscape, facilitating a streamlined travel experience while significantly increasing tourist numbers, especially among international travelers. The initiative will aim to create appealing tourism products and promote them globally through advanced technologies.
The MoU outlines plans for establishing an innovation center, a pioneering initiative in India, aimed at nurturing technological advancements in the tourism domain.
Modern, fully-equipped caravan parks will be developed to provide distinctive travel experiences in line with global trends, catering to both domestic and foreign tourists.
By merging scenic accommodations with co-working spaces, Startup Pods will address the rising need for remote work opportunities in picturesque environments.
Tourism Director Sikha Surendran underlined the necessity of tackling critical challenges through tech-based solutions, such as enhancing basic amenities, ensuring safety, and improving the overall tourist experience.
“We are also considering a literature circuit, where tourists can explore sites linked to Malayalam literary classics, many of which have been translated into multiple global languages,” she mentioned.
Anoop Ambika, CEO of KSUM, unveiled three pilot projects under this initiative. The first is Caravan Trails, a specialized app designed to identify and promote lesser-known destinations ideal for caravan tourism, allowing users to share hidden treasures with prospective tourists.
The second is Startup Pods, fully equipped pods in scenic spots tailored to attract tech-savvy travelers and provide an enhanced remote working experience.
The third project focuses on tech-enabled enhancements to public restroom facilities to improve convenience and hygiene for travelers.
