By Sminu Jindal, Founder-Chairperson, Svayam
India’s tourism industry is expanding rapidly, ranking 39th in the 2024 Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI) published by the World Economic Forum. With 43 UNESCO World Heritage sites and the hospitality sector valued at $24 billion, the country is seeing an influx of domestic and international travellers. In sync with this, the government has introduced various schemes to improve infrastructure, air connectivity, and sustainable tourism initiatives, however, a critical gap remains – accessibility for persons with reduced mobility.
Despite ongoing developments, many individuals with mobility challenges still face obstacles while traveling. Uneven footpaths, inaccessible public transport, and a lack of proper facilities at tourist sites and hotels make travel difficult. Ensuring accessibility is not only about infrastructure, it is about creating a seamless and inclusive experience that allows everyone to explore the country without restrictions.
Challenges in Accessibility
For individuals with reduced mobility, planning a trip can often feel overwhelming due to unpredictable accessibility standards. Most public spaces, including airports, railway stations, and bus terminals, still lack essential features such as ramps, tactile pathways, and designated seating. While airlines provide wheelchair assistance, the journey beyond the airport often becomes difficult due to the absence of accessible taxis or last-mile connectivity.
Tourist sites, including heritage monuments, pose another challenge. Many historical landmarks were built centuries ago, making modifications complex. While some efforts have been made to install ramps and provide alternate routes, several key sites remain difficult to access. Accommodation is another hurdle, with only a small fraction of hotels offering rooms that cater to wheelchair users. Even when such rooms exist, they are often limited in number and poorly designed.
Beyond infrastructure, awareness among hospitality and tourism staff is a significant issue. Many professionals are not trained to assist PRMs effectively, leading to experiences that are uncomfortable and frustrating for travellers. This lack of sensitivity discourages many potential tourists from visiting India despite the country’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
Addressing accessibility also makes economic sense. The global market for accessible tourism is growing, with aging populations and increased awareness driving demand for barrier-free travel. Countries that invest in inclusive tourism benefit from a broader customer base, attracting travellers who might otherwise hesitate to visit due to accessibility concerns.
India’s tourism industry is projected to surpass $59 billion by 2028, and ensuring accessibility could significantly contribute to this growth. With the hospitality sector alone expected to reach $31 billion in the next five years, businesses that integrate accessibility measures will have a competitive edge. Additionally, making travel accessible creates job opportunities for individuals with disabilities within the sector, from customer service roles to tour guiding and hospitality management.
Government Efforts and The Path Forward
The Indian government has recognized the need for better tourism infrastructure and has introduced several initiatives to improve connectivity and sustainability. The RCS-UDAN Scheme, which has operationalized 579 tourism routes, is enhancing air travel access to remote destinations, making it easier for all travellers, including PRMs, to explore different parts of the country. The liberalization of e-visa facilities for 167 countries has also made international travel to India smoother, eliminating bureaucratic hurdles that could be challenging for those requiring special assistance.
Another key initiative is Swadesh Darshan 2.0, which aims to develop sustainable tourism circuits with a focus on balancing environmental impact and development. The cruciality of making medical tourism for international travellers and religious tourism for Indian travellers more accessible should also not be overlooked due to these sectors’ contributions to the country’s economy.
If accessibility is incorporated into this vision, it could transform India into a truly inclusive travel destination. However, for these efforts to have a tangible impact, accessibility must become a fundamental part of tourism policies rather than an afterthought.
Making India an Inclusive Travel Destination
To create a travel ecosystem that caters to all, accessibility must be incorporated at every stage of the tourism experience. Hotels and resorts should implement universal design principles, ensuring that accessible rooms, elevators, and public spaces become standard rather than an exception. Transport networks, including metros, buses, and taxis, need better last-mile solutions such as low-floor vehicles and designated pickup zones for PRMs.
Heritage sites, while difficult to modify structurally, can benefit from thoughtful interventions such as audio guides, virtual reality experiences, and designated viewing areas. Museums and cultural centers should stress on creating inclusive experiences by providing sign language guides, tactile exhibits, and accessible restrooms.
Awareness is equally important. Training programs for tourism and hospitality professionals can improve service quality for travellers with disabilities. By fostering an environment of inclusivity, India can position itself as a leader in accessible tourism, attracting a diverse range of visitors from around the world.
As the country looks toward contributing $3 trillion to GDP from tourism by 2047, accessibility must be an integral part of this vision. A truly successful tourism industry is one that ensures that every traveller, regardless of mobility challenges, can experience the richness of India’s landscapes, heritage, and hospitality without barriers.
