The Kerala Institute of Tourism and Travel Studies (KITTS) has initiated a training program for tourism officials from Tamil Nadu. The program, inaugurated online by Tourism and Public Works Minister P. A. Mohamed Riyas, aims to train 60 Tourism Information Officers from Tamil Nadu at state and district levels.
The training is conducted in two batches, with the first session commencing on Wednesday and the second scheduled from March 10 to March 12. Minister Riyas highlighted the significance of knowledge exchange in enhancing tourism prospects in South India, emphasizing Kerala’s commitment to offering quality learning experiences to Tamil Nadu officials.
KITTS has been praised by Tourism Secretary K. Biju for leading professional development initiatives that bolster regional cooperation and institutional capacity. The curriculum focuses on Kerala’s renowned Responsible Tourism (RT) initiatives, sustainable destination management practices, and branding strategies that prioritize environmental and social responsibility.
Participants will receive practical exposure to policy frameworks that have positioned Kerala as a leader in community-based and eco-conscious tourism development. This collaboration stems from discussions in August 2025 between KITTS and Tamil Nadu Tourism Department officials, aiming to enhance skill development and tourist guide certification.
The collaboration is seen as a strategic move towards structured “tourism diplomacy,” fostering a resilient and sustainable travel ecosystem in southern India through shared expertise and partnerships.
