Emerging Trends in the Hospitality Industry in India - By Shubhang Walia

By observing current trends, it is evident that the key direction for hospitality in the modern world involves major investments, with an anticipation that the sector will focus on and implement more sustainable solutions across various aspects. Recognizing the environmental challenges faced by India, the hotel industry is now more conscious of the need to adopt "sustainable" practices. Both the public and commercial sectors have placed a significant emphasis on sustainability, a trend also reflected in the hotel industry.

While the hospitality industry places demands on natural resources, contributing to environmental stress, it is also reliant on the same natural setting, which is a crucial component of the ecosystem that shapes a tourist destination. This inherent risk poses a threat to the fundamental foundation of the hospitality industry. The business world is progressively adopting a "green" approach, and the concepts of 'going local' or 'responsible tourism' are being actively promoted by hotels in India. Accommodations need to be at the forefront of such initiatives as tourists increasingly seek distinctive and local experiences.

In the modern world, no hotel can thrive in isolation from its local neighborhood. The integration of sustainability and responsible tourism into hotel operations and marketing plans is considered a significant game-changer for the sector.

Hotels in India have successfully reduced their waste by up to 50% through the implementation of a waste management program initiated by the leading association in India.

Key Sustainable Practices Include:

1. Sustainable Sourcing:

   - Eco-friendly hotels prioritize serving customers organic food and drinks.

   - They utilize sustainable materials to create products.

   - Support for local cultures and economies is evident through the procurement of goods and job creation for residents in the regions where they operate.

2. Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products:

   - Green Hotels use non-toxic, biodegradable cleaning supplies to minimize their negative impact on the environment.

3. Green Transportation:

   - Support for environmentally beneficial modes of mobility, such as bicycles, public transportation, and electric vehicles.

4. Government Support:

   - The Indian government has implemented numerous initiatives to boost the tourism sector, including programs like Swadesh-Darshan and Prasad, updates to existing programs like Hunar-se-Rozgar Tak, continuation of e-tourist visas to many countries, development of a mobile application for tourists, and the establishment of an Incredible Indian Tourists helpline providing information about the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean).