NEW DELHI: The Federation of Indian Tourism and Hospitality Associations (FAITH) called on the center on Thursday to designate all tourism, travel and hospitality workers as frontline workers and ensure their vaccination regardless of age.

It has asked the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and the Department of Health to look into the matter and provide guidance to state governments.

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According to FAITH, Indian tourism is entering the main holiday season of 2021 for domestic travel, which historically has generated more than 60% of the domestic tourism business. October through March is the peak season for inbound travel, which accounts for more than 70% of the estimated tourism business.

“This (vaccination) will send a strong message from Indian tourism as it prepares to receive visitors in a safe and responsible manner. This can also be the cornerstone of Indian Tourism’s tactical communications strategy and will be a huge competitive advantage and a major selling point for the revitalization of all segments, “FAITH said in a statement.

Since the coronavirus pandemic outbreak in 2020, India’s hospitality and tourism sector has suffered three quarters of washout estimated to cost up to Rs.15 billion and the industry is desperate for government support to survive in 2021 and to recover.

The second wave of coronavirus and the subsequent curfews and restrictions imposed by various state governments have put the tourism industry in deeper trouble. With the international borders closed, domestic tourism is one of the most important segments that the hospitality industry has focused on. The vaccination campaign is expected to revive domestic demand as more people feel confident about returning to vacation and short breaks.

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