CII-Svayam Roundtable Highlights Accessible Tourism and Inclusion
Stakeholders Discuss Accessibility Across Tourism, Hospitality and Sports
Svayam, in collaboration with Confederation of Indian Industry and the India Business & Disability Network, convened a national roundtable in New Delhi on 27 March 2026 to discuss accessibility across tourism, hospitality and sports.
The discussion brought together representatives from government, industry, multilateral organisations, NGOs and the disability sector. The objective was to examine how accessibility can be integrated into infrastructure, services and policy frameworks across sectors linked to travel and leisure.
Focus on Accessibility as a Development Priority
The roundtable was held in the context of ongoing efforts to recognise World Accessibility Day on 27 March. Over the past few years, Svayam has been engaging with stakeholders to position accessibility within policy and development discussions.
In her remarks, Sminu Jindal highlighted the need for coordinated action across sectors. She noted that accessibility should be considered in the design of infrastructure and services to support wider participation in travel, employment and economic activity.
Industry and Government Perspectives
Participants discussed how improvements in transport systems, accommodation, public spaces and digital platforms can support more inclusive tourism. The session included contributions from government representatives and industry stakeholders, as well as perspectives from the sports ecosystem.
Ira Singhal emphasised the importance of moving towards a rights-based approach to inclusion, while Hima Bindu highlighted the need to strengthen infrastructure and expand access to sports facilities. Wrestler Sangram Singh pointed to the role of awareness and education in supporting inclusion.
Key Takeaways and Next Steps
Discussions focused on integrating accessibility into planning at the public and private infrastructure levels. Participants identified the need for coordination across transport, hospitality, public spaces and digital systems, along with greater awareness and training among service providers.
The session also examined how improved accessibility can support tourism demand, particularly among senior citizens and persons with disabilities, while contributing to broader economic participation.
The roundtable concluded with a focus on continued stakeholder engagement and the need for actionable steps to advance accessibility across sectors.