Kerala Tourism Minister Advocates Universal Access Framework at 'Kerala for All' Summit

In a landmark address at the 'Kerala for All' conclave, Tourism Minister Mohamed Riyas articulated a comprehensive vision for transforming Kerala into a globally recognized model of inclusive tourism. The minister emphasized that ensuring universal accessibility constitutes a fundamental human right, requiring systematic dismantling of physical, social, informational, and attitudinal barriers that currently impede travelers with diverse needs. Riyas framed the initiative not merely as a compliance measure but as a strategic imperative for sustainable tourism development and social equity, positioning accessibility as a shared responsibility among all stakeholders—including government agencies, private sector operators, local communities, and civil society organizations. The conclave served as a platform to catalyze collaborative action, with the minister underscoring that the right to travel safely, comfortably, and with dignity is universal. This policy direction aligns with Kerala's broader ambitions to enhance its tourism competitiveness while fostering an inclusive society, signaling a paradigm shift from niche accessibility accommodations to mainstreaming universal design principles across the entire tourism value chain.