New Delhi, 29th March, 2025: The Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), in collaboration with PHDCCI, successfully hosted the 2nd Tourism Sustainability Summit 2025 on March 26 at Hotel Le Meridien, New Delhi. The event brought together over 350 key stakeholders, including policymakers, industry experts, and hospitality leaders, to discuss sustainability as a critical component of the sector’s long-term viability.
A major highlight of the summit was the launch of the “Handbook on Best Sustainability Practices in Indian Hospitality” by the FHRAI Centre of Excellence, along with a special book on sustainability initiatives by GRT Hotels, authored by Vikram Cotah, CEO of GRT Hotels. The Handbook underscores how sustainability has evolved from an ethical commitment to an essential business strategy, with hotels across India increasingly adopting green practices to minimize environmental impact and enhance operational efficiency.
Mr. K. Syama Raju, President of FHRAI, highlighted the importance of sustainability in hospitality, stating, “Sustainability is reshaping the way we operate, requiring a balance between profitability and responsibility. The decisions we make today will have lasting effects on the environment and the future of tourism. FHRAI is dedicated to supporting the industry in this transition by promoting efficient practices, resource conservation, and integrating sustainability into every aspect of operations—from energy consumption and waste management to community engagement. While the road ahead presents challenges, collective efforts and innovation will be key to ensuring both environmental stewardship and the industry’s long-term growth.”
Mr. Sheo Shekhar Shukla (IAS), Principal Secretary (Tourism) & Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, Government of Madhya Pradesh, stated, “Madhya Pradesh has long recognized the importance of sustainable tourism, and we are actively working to incorporate green hospitality initiatives across the state. From eco-tourism initiatives to responsible waste management in heritage sites, our focus is on ensuring a sustainable model that benefits both the environment and local communities.”
Mr. Sandeep Kumar, Tourism Officer, Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Ltd, Government of Gujarat, remarked, “Gujarat is embracing sustainable tourism through various initiatives, including eco-friendly resorts and community-driven conservation programs. We are dedicated to making Gujarat a leader in green hospitality, ensuring that our natural and cultural heritage is preserved for future generations.”
Mr. Vikram Cotah, CEO, GRT Hotels, commented, “Sustainability has been at the core of our operational philosophy at GRT Hotels. Our efforts in reducing waste, conserving water, and implementing energy-efficient solutions have already shown significant results. It is heartening to see the industry come together with a shared vision for a more sustainable future.”
Mr. Anupam Dasgupta, Area Vice President – North India, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, added, “Sustainability is not just a trend; it is an imperative. At The Leela, we are committed to integrating eco-conscious practices into our operations while maintaining the highest levels of guest comfort and luxury. This summit has been an important platform to share best practices and collaborate on solutions that will shape the future of responsible tourism in India.”
The event concluded with a renewed commitment from the Indian hospitality industry to pursue further innovations in sustainability. With a focus on reducing energy consumption, conserving water, and managing waste, the sector is set to play a key role in shaping the future of sustainable tourism. As the industry continues to embrace these sustainability practices, the findings from the summit will undoubtedly guide the sector towards a greener and more responsible future.
FHRAI thanks its partners of the Summit – Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Ltd, Government of Gujarat as Associate Partner, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, Government of Madhya Pradesh as State Partner, GRT Hotels and The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts as Industry Partners, and Jaipuria School of Business as Academic Partner for supporting this initiative and further reinforcing the industry-wide commitment to sustainable tourism in India.
About FHRAI
The Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) is the apex body of the Indian hospitality industry, representing over 60,000 hotels and 500,000 restaurants across the country. Established in 1955, FHRAI works as a voice for the hospitality sector and collaborates with the government, regulatory bodies, and international organizations to support the growth of India’s hospitality and tourism industries.
