Challenge of climate is now knocking on our door: Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat

New Delhi: Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat expressed concern over the “adverse impacts of climate change” on the tourism sector and called upon industry stakeholders for “collective efforts” to mitigate its impact.

Addressing sustainability challenges in the tourism sector at the Tourism Sustainability Summit 2025, organized by PHDCCI in collaboration with FH&RA, the Minister emphasized the need for collective efforts between the government and industry stakeholders to address the pressing issues of sustainability.

“The challenge of climate is now knocking on our door. If timely action had been taken years ago, we would be in a better position today,” he remarked, urging immediate action to prevent similar consequences in the tourism sector.”

The Minister expressed concern over the adverse impacts of climate change, citing changing rainfall patterns, shrinking glaciers, and the formation of glacier lakes.

He highlighted the interconnected growth of tourism and the Indian economy, referencing discussions at Davos that projected the doubling of India’s economy every 7-8 years. Tourism in India, he stated, is set for rapid expansion, but this growth must be accompanied by sustainable practices.

Shekhawat also called for action-oriented collaboration, stating, “Let us pledge to convert this into action after identifying our responsibilities and work in tandem toward the sustainability goal in the tourism sector.”

The summit, focused on mainstreaming sustainability in tourism, served as a platform for industry leaders and stakeholders to deliberate on solutions to make the sector resilient and future-ready.

Suman Billa, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, discussed the importance of mindful tourism growth. He underscored that tourism should be viewed as a shared responsibility, aligning with the Prime Minister’s Mission LiFE initiative, and emphasized the role of the Ministry of Tourism in promoting sustainability through programs like “Travel for LiFE.”

Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary (Tourism) of Madhya Pradesh, showcased his state’s commitment to responsible tourism, with over 500 protected monuments, 12 National Parks, and a focus on eco-tourism, tribal tourism, and rural tourism.

Speaking on environmental aspects, he highlighted that Madhya Pradesh has the highest forest cover (25%) in India, 12 National Parks, 9 Tiger Reserves, and 3 Biosphere Reserves.

Emphasizing the growth of spiritual and religious tourism, the state is home to the Narmada, one of the world’s oldest rivers, and comprises five cultural zones. With this the state also focus on eco-tourism, tribal tourism, and rural tourism, Shukla added.

PHDCCI President Hemant Jain stressed that sustainability is no longer optional but a responsibility. “If we don’t act now, we risk losing market share,” he warned, adding that initiatives like this summit are crucial for strengthening India’s position in the tourism sector.

Amb. Manjeev Singh Puri, Chair of the India-Nepal Centre, PHDCCI, urged everyone to internalize sustainability in their organizations, stressing India’s commitment to net-zero emissions by 2070.

Glenn Mandziuk, CEO of the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance (UK), discussed the industry’s sustainability and human rights issues, emphasizing the need for collective action across the tourism sector.

Finally, K. Syama Raju, President of FHRAI, highlighted the importance of sustainability and the collective effort required for a greener, more inclusive future in tourism.