Sat Jan 31 16:04:50 UTC 2026: ### Kerala Tourism Focuses on Accessibility and Inclusion at “Kerala For All” Conclave

The Story:
The “Kerala For All” conclave, jointly organized by Kerala Tourism and The Hindu in Kochi on Saturday, January 31, 2026, addressed the critical need for greater accessibility and inclusion in the tourism sector for people with disabilities. Neha Arora, founder of Planet Abled, emphasized that hotels must adapt their infrastructure to cater to the over 15% of the global population with disabilities. She also highlighted the government’s shortcomings in implementing the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, advocating for clear policies and awareness programs for architects and hospitality professionals.

The discussion also covered the importance of hiring differently abled people in the hospitality sector. Ms. Arora pointed out that while Kerala’s hospitality industry has shown some empathy, the focus needs to expand beyond wheelchair accessibility. She emphasized the significant spending power of travelers with disabilities, noting they spend over 30% more on travel and accommodation compared to ordinary travelers.

Key Points:

  • The “Kerala For All” conclave took place in Kochi on January 31, 2026.
  • Neha Arora, founder of Planet Abled, stressed the need for accessible infrastructure in hotels for the 15%+ of the global population with disabilities.
  • Arora criticized the government’s failure to fully implement the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
  • The discussion included the need to hire differently abled people in the hospitality sector.
  • Travelers with disabilities spend over 30% more on travel and accommodation.
  • Kerala’s hospitality industry is showing empathy in the context of inclusive tourism.
  • The conclave was jointly organized by Kerala Tourism and The Hindu.

Critical Analysis:
The presence of multiple articles related to the “Kerala For All” conclave on the same date suggests a coordinated and significant effort by the Kerala state government to address various social issues. The focus on accessibility for people with disabilities alongside discussions on child protection laws and citizen welfare indicates a broader strategy to promote inclusivity and social justice within the state. This aligns with Kerala’s historically progressive social policies and its focus on human development indicators.

Key Takeaways:

  • Kerala is proactively addressing accessibility and inclusion in its tourism sector.
  • The government acknowledges the need for improved implementation of disability rights legislation.
  • The conclave highlights the economic potential of the disability tourism market.
  • Awareness and training are crucial for architects and hospitality professionals to create inclusive spaces.
  • The event suggests a broader commitment to social justice and inclusivity within Kerala.

Impact Analysis:

The “Kerala For All” conclave and its focus on accessible tourism are likely to have several long-term impacts. By addressing the needs of travelers with disabilities, Kerala can tap into a significant and growing market segment. This could lead to increased revenue for the tourism sector and create employment opportunities for differently abled individuals. Furthermore, improved accessibility infrastructure will benefit not only people with disabilities but also other segments of the population, such as senior citizens and families with young children. The focus on policy implementation and awareness programs can drive systemic change, leading to a more inclusive and equitable society.

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