Kerala Government Launches App to Empower Women, Promote Inclusivity in Tourism

By: WE Staff | Tuesday, 13 June 2023

In a pioneering move, the Kerala state government has launched a mobile app aimed at boosting its 'Women-Friendly Tourism' initiative. This groundbreaking initiative, the first of its kind in India, seeks to promote gender inclusivity within the tourism sector. With the support of esteemed organizations like UN Women, the project aims to engage an impressive 1,50,000 women from the state, empowering them with opportunities in the vibrant tourism industry.

The primary objective of the app is to create 10,000 women-led businesses and generate a staggering 30,000 employment opportunities within the tourism sector in Kerala, a southern state renowned for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

The esteemed State Tourism Minister, PA Mohammed Riyas, spearheaded this visionary initiative, aligning it with the UN Women's concept of 'Gender Inclusive Tourism.' This concept advocates for active female participation in the tourism sector, ensuring equal opportunities for women in the industry.

The newly launched app will serve as an indispensable tool for tourists, offering a wide range of women-friendly tourism products and packages. It will provide location-specific information and captivating images that highlight the socio-cultural aspects of Kerala, enriching the overall experience of travelers. The app's purpose is to ensure hassle-free and enjoyable visits to the state, catering specifically to the needs and interests of women.

The Responsible Tourism Mission (RT Mission), the key implementing agency for the 'Women-Friendly Tourism' project, has been entrusted with the responsibility of developing comprehensive content for the app. Acting as a reliable guide, the app will offer intricate details about tourism destinations in Kerala. Moreover, it will provide valuable information on women-friendly accommodations, services, and enterprises, including recognized tour operators, travel agencies, homestays, and women tour guides.

K Rupeshkumar, the State Coordinator of the RT Mission, emphasized that the app will be a treasure trove of information. It will feature details on women-led handicraft and souvenir production and sales units. Additionally, it will highlight amenities such as restrooms, camping sites, licensed houseboats, caravan parks, ethnic cuisine units, festivals, and experiential and adventure packages available across various picturesque locations in Kerala. The app launch signifies the commencement of the project's second phase, which aims to further advance the objectives of empowering women in the tourism industry.

By embracing the power of technology, the Kerala government's app serves as a catalyst for women's empowerment and gender equality in the tourism sector. It is a significant step forward in creating a supportive environment for women entrepreneurs and fostering their meaningful participation in the vibrant tourism landscape of Kerala.

The launch of this app not only enhances the overall tourist experience but also contributes to the socio-economic development of the state. By providing equal opportunities and empowering women, Kerala is making remarkable strides in creating a tourism industry that is truly inclusive, diverse, and empowering for all.