Inbound to recover in 18 months

At the first session of 3rd TravTalk Digital Conclave, which focused on inbound tourism through the topic ‘The Reality of No Tourism’, panellists discussed the present scenario where the inbound sector is witnessing zero billings and income, and faces thr

This first session had panellists deliberating on the extent of damage done to the inbound tourism industry and how the government could would help great way. the industry a

For Vice President, IATO, no one can clearly predict when travel and tourism will truly resume. “For tourism to start, we

Rajiv Mehra,

Company, adds that inbound travel is not going to bounce back anytime soon. “I think, there will be a complete stop on inbound tourism with zero travelling allowed. It does not really depend on travel planners or operators anymore; it all depends on the policies of the government (both Indian and foreign) on how and when international borders will open. Another major concern is the potential loss of jobs in the country. It will be difficult to find a place for those dismissed from jobs. Being specialists in the travel industry, it will be difficult for many to find

“Now, however, my question is: Is tourism going to sustain with the virus? If yes, it is going to be a big challenge for all of us. People will be travelling for sure, but they will be ‘travellers’ and not ‘tourists’. There is a difference! survival package, how much of the available resources will we require to start again or how much will be left in the industry to start with?” Considering the grass-roots segment of tourism stakeholders, he says, “It is a very serious challenge. Right now, the biggest crisis is about survival and, of course, it is a big opportunity for the industry to learn and reset everything for a better world. We do not get a reset button in life and sometimes we wish something could re-set