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The Union Minister for Tourism, Kumari Selja today unveiled the code of conduct for Safe and Honourable Tourism in New Delhi.
Speaking on the occasion, Kumari Selja said, even though such code of ethics for tourism has earlier been developed by world bodies like UNWTO, the code of conduct unveiled today is based on meeting country’s futuristic needs and challenges. This code of Conduct was developed by Ministry of Tourism in association with PATA India Chapter, Save the Children – India, United Nations Office on Drugs & Crimes (UNODC) and Equitable Tourism Option (EQUATIONS).
The minister said that ‘Safe and Honourable Tourism’ aims to strengthen the critical pillar of ‘Suraksha’ (Safety) and ensure that Indian tourism follows international standards of safe tourism practices, applicable for both tourists and local residents. Its central objective is to ensure that tourism activities are undertaken, integrating the need to protect the dignity, safety and the right to freedom from exploitation of all tourists and local residents involved in or impacted by tourism. She said “In today’s scenario, following safety guidelines is not just about adhering to the provisions of the seven pillars but also implies good business. As the demand from travellers for safe and secure tourism services increases, this code will assist signatories to build capacities among their services chains and personnel so as to be able to respond to this demand.”
She said that “This code of conduct shall be applicable to all the owners, suppliers, contractors, employees of the travel and tour sector including hotels, restaurants, lodges, guest houses, tour agents, entertainment establishments etc. In addition it shall be applicable to service providers like event management organizations, entertainment providers, transport operators like taxis, buses, tour guides and other services or agencies associated with the tourism sector.” She further added that “This is not a legally binding instrument but a set of guidelines for the tourism industry. In addition to these guidelines, included in this code are key messages that signatories are encouraged to use.”
The Minister said that her Ministry has been running the social awareness campaign under the theme “Athithi Devo Bhavah” which also addresses issues relating to treating our women travellers with dignity. A similar campaign needs to be initiated to sensitize the incoming tourists to refrain from indulging in any such activity which might disturb the social fabric of the country.
Kumari Selja urged all the stake holders to adopt the code at the earliest.