Kerala Launches Gender-Inclusive Tourism Policy To Empower Women Entrepreneurs

The Kerala government plans to proceed with its action plan to support newcomers, particularly women, in the tourism sector, in line with its vision for inclusive and sustainable tourism development, said Tourism Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas during his inaugural address at a state-level consultation workshop focused on developing a Gender-Inclusive and Women-Friendly Tourism Policy, part of the state’s women-friendly tourism initiative. The workshop was organised by the Department of Tourism in partnership with the Kerala Responsible Tourism Mission Society and UN Women India.

According to the minister, the gender-inclusive project of Kerala has two main goals: establishing women-friendly tourism centres and building a network of women-led enterprises within the sector. “It is vital to extend support to the newcomers to the tourism sector, especially women, to ensure that they flourish in the competitive ecosystem,” Mr. Riyas said.

Initially, around 17,631 women joined the project, offering a wide range of enterprises and services such as women-only tour groups, homestays, souvenir shops, and roles like community tour leaders and operators. After receiving training, these women now carry out tourism activities in a well-coordinated way, the Minister explained.

Kerala, praised by UN Women India for its efforts, received technical support in areas such as destination safety, gender audits, and training programmes. It was the first state in the country to conduct a gender audit, completing it in six tourism centres so far, with plans to cover 14 more this financial year. Additionally, safety audits have been completed at 68 tourism locations, and efforts to implement women-friendly initiatives are actively underway, the Minister stated.

In her keynote address, Kanta Singh, Country Representative of UN Women India, praised Kerala for setting an example for the rest of the country in many areas. She expressed that it was a privilege to partner with the State government and the Responsible Tourism project to further advance opportunities for women in the tourism sector.

Framework Of Kerala’s Gender Responsive Tourism Policy

K. Rupeshkumar, CEO of the Kerala Responsible Tourism Mission Society, outlined the framework for the upcoming Gender Responsive Tourism Policy. He explained that the policy will establish clear guidelines for implementing, monitoring, and evaluating gender-inclusive practices across the tourism sector. “The major objectives of the policy include fostering women’s participation in tourism industry, ensuring safety and security and women’s empowerment,” he said.

The policy will also focus on improving workplace conditions, guaranteeing safe environments for employees, and developing inclusive, accessible infrastructure and services at tourism destinations. Rupeshkumar added that a detailed action plan will support the implementation of each aspect of the policy.