https://indianmasterminds.com

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT

The IAS Who is Reshaping India’s Global Tourism Identity

V. Vidyavathi, Secretary of India’s Ministry of Tourism, is redefining the country’s tourism landscape with a focus on sustainability, heritage preservation, and community empowerment. Her leadership has seen successful global initiatives, including G20 tourism events, the "Travel for LiFE" campaign, and promoting the North East as a sustainable tourism hub.
Indian Masterminds Stories

In the sprawling mosaic of India’s governance, some figures stand out for their sheer ability to blend vision with action. V. Vidyavathi, the Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, is one such leader whose transformative approach is reshaping the country’s tourism landscape. With an illustrious career spanning three decades, Vidyavathi’s commitment to sustainability, heritage preservation, and community empowerment has made her a beacon of innovation in public administration. Her journey from an IAS officer of the Karnataka cadre to spearheading India’s global tourism initiatives is nothing short of inspirational.

THE APPOINTMENT THAT REDEFINED TOURISM LEADERSHIP 

When V. Vidyavathi assumed the role of Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, in June 2023, the challenges were formidable. Tourism was still recovering from the aftershocks of the pandemic, and India’s vast potential as a global destination awaited strategic direction. Undeterred, Ms. Vidyavathi took charge with characteristic determination, quickly setting a precedent for efficiency and innovation.

Her leadership became evident when India hosted the G20 Tourism Working Group meetings and the Tourism Ministerial Meeting across iconic locations, including the Rann of Kutch, Siliguri, Srinagar, and Panaji. These events, which highlighted green tourism, digitalisation, and inclusive development, were flawlessly executed, earning accolades from global stakeholders. The successful endorsement of the Goa Roadmap and the launch of the “Travel for LiFE” initiative showcased her ability to navigate complex international platforms with ease.

THE ROLE OF A TOURISM SECRETARY 

The position of tourism secretary is pivotal in shaping a nation’s global identity. As the head of the Ministry of Tourism, Vidyavathi’s responsibilities encompass policy formulation, infrastructure development, and global outreach. Her role requires balancing domestic priorities, such as enhancing connectivity and promoting rural tourism, with international collaborations to position India as a premier destination. It’s a delicate dance of fostering economic growth while preserving cultural and natural heritage—a challenge Ms. Vidyavathi embraces with strategic foresight.

ROOTS IN KARNATAKA 

Hailing from a family in Andhra Pradesh that valued education, Ms. Vidyavathi’s academic and professional journey laid the foundation for her illustrious career. She holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Policy and Management from IIM Bangalore and is an Eisenhower Fellow, an honour bestowed upon leaders who excel in their fields. Fluent in six languages—English, Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam—she embodies India’s linguistic and cultural diversity.

FROM IAS INDUCTION TO EARLY POSTINGS 

Ms. Vidyavathi entered the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) in 1991 as part of the Karnataka cadre. Her early assignments, including stints in the Panchayati Raj system in districts like Shimoga, Gulbarga, and Mandya, showcased her commitment to grassroots development. She also served as Director of the Department of Women and Child Development, where she worked on empowering marginalised communities through policy-driven initiatives.

THE CENTRAL GOVERNMENT TRANSITION 

In 2004, Ms. Vidyavathi moved to central government roles, marking a new phase in her career. Her tenure at the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) from 2004 to 2011 gave her invaluable exposure to national policymaking. Later, as an advisor in policy & strategy at the International Finance Corporation, she gained insights into global economic frameworks. Her roles in the Cabinet Secretariat, Ministry of Environment & Forests, and Department of Administrative Reforms further broadened her expertise.

REVOLUTIONISING TOURISM AS SECRETARY 

Since becoming Tourism Secretary, Ms. Vidyavathi has championed multiple initiatives that reflect her visionary approach. Her tenure is marked by a relentless focus on sustainability, community empowerment, and cultural promotion. Key achievements include:

1. G20 Tourism Initiatives

Ms. Vidyavathi successfully organised G20 Tourism Working Group meetings and the Tourism Ministerial Meeting, positioning India as a global leader in sustainable tourism.

The meetings emphasised green tourism, digitalisation, MSMEs, and destination management, aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

2. “Travel for LiFE” Campaign

Launched at the World Tourism Market (WTM) 2023 in London, this initiative encourages sustainable practices among tourists and businesses.

It aims to transition from a “use-and-dispose” economy to a circular economy, emphasising resource conservation and community welfare.

3. Focus on the North East

At the 11th International Tourism Mart (ITM) in Shillong, Ms. Vidyavathi highlighted the sensitive ecosystem of the North East and advocated for adventure tourism and rural homestays.

The Adventure Tourism Model Law, circulated under her guidance, ensures safety and sustainability in adventure sports.

She urged the implementation of homestay strategies to empower local communities and promote inclusive tourism.

4. Infrastructure and Policy Development

Under the PRASHAD Scheme, 46 projects were sanctioned to develop spiritual and heritage tourism.

The revamped Swadesh Darshan 2.0 identified 55 destinations for sustainable development, focusing on environmental and socio-cultural sustainability.

5. Global Outreach

India’s participation in international travel exhibitions like ITB Berlin and WTM London under Ms. Vidyavathi’s leadership showcased the country’s tourism potential to global audiences.

The Ministry’s wedding tourism campaign redefined India as a destination for both grandeur and cultural depth.

6. Cultural and Experiential Tourism

Events like Bharat Parv at Red Fort and the Krishnaveni Sangeetha Neerajanam in Vijayawada celebrated India’s rich heritage through music, food, and crafts.

Ms. Vidyavathi’s focus on experiential tourism reflects her understanding of global trends and India’s unique offerings.

A VISION FOR THE FUTURE

V. Vidyavathi’s leadership style is a blend of strategic planning and grassroots execution. Her vision for India’s tourism sector is rooted in sustainability, inclusivity, and global competitiveness. By integrating technology, fostering community participation, and preserving heritage, she aims to make India a top-tier global destination.

Her initiatives, such as Travel for LiFE and the Swadesh Darshan 2.0, are not just policies but pathways to a future where tourism contributes to environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and economic growth.

From her early days in Karnataka to her transformative role as Tourism Secretary, IAS V. Vidyavathi has consistently prioritised progress with responsibility. As India’s tourism sector flourishes under her guidance, her legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations to dream big and act decisively. With her at the helm, the story of Indian tourism is being rewritten—one sustainable step at a time.


Indian Masterminds Stories
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Related Stories
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
NEWS
Kolkata Metro BEML
BEML Supplies 17 Advanced Trainsets for India’s First Underwater Metro; PM Inaugurates Kolkata Metro Link
hydropower projects
Power Ministry Issues New Guidelines for Hydro Projects; CEA Approval Mandatory, Closed-Loop Pumped Storage Exempt
IAS Officers Indian Administrative Services
IAS Sanjay Garg Appointed OSD at BIS, to Take Over as DG in Nov; IAS Chandra Sekhar Gets Addl Charge as Parliamentary Affairs Secretary
NCST Holds Review Meeting with NHPC
NCST Holds Review Meeting with NHPC on Implementation of Safeguards for Scheduled Tribe Employees
MP CM Collector Award Niti Aayog
Sampurnata Abhiyan: Madhya Pradesh Leads NITI Aayog Campaign; Collectors from 8 Districts Win Gold
Mohan Yadav
MP CM Mohan Yadav Pushes for Sustainable, Community-Driven Rural Water Policy; Targets 100% Tap Coverage by March 2027
Ajay Bhadoo IAS
IAS Ajay Bhadoo Gets Extended Term as DGFT - What It Means & His Career Journey
THDCIL_Receives_ABMS_Certification_for_Integrity_and_Transparency
THDC India (THDCIL) Awarded ISO 37001:2016 Anti-Bribery Certification by BIS - Details Inside
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Videos
Dr
Resisted Flawed Schemes, Transferred Thrice In Three Months, Found Solace In Writing
WhatsApp Image 2025-08-11 at 4.48
IAS SVR Srinivas on Mumbai Trans Harbour Link, Tough Calls, and the Real Power of IAS Officers | Video Interview
WhatsApp Image 2025-08-08 at 5.25
Dharavi Redevelopment: IAS Minds Turning 100-Year-Old Slum into a Modern City | Video Interview
ADVERTISEMENT
UPSC Stories
IAS Minnu P M
“Lazy, Sleepy, Yet Determined”: Minnu P M’s Honest Take on Cracking UPSC
Minnu PM, once a clerk in Kerala Police, cleared UPSC with AIR 150 after five years of struggle. Her...
IPS Ashish Tiwari
From IIT and Investment Banking to Public Service, Meet IPS Ashish Tiwari 
Ashish Tiwari, IIT graduate and former investment banker, chose public service over global finance. As...
WhatsApp Image 2025-08-12 at 7.27
First Attempt IRS, Fourth Attempt IPS: The Relentless Pursuit of Jitendra Kumar Yadav Who Cracked UPSC 3 Times
IPS Yadav is originally from Chhattisgarh. He was first selected for the IRS through UPSC and later for...
Social Media
Masahiro Hara
From Go Board to Global Use, How QR Codes Changed the World: IRAS Officer Ananth Rupanagudi Spotlights Masahiro Hara’s Vision
IRAS officer Ananth Rupanagudi shared a video on Masahiro Hara, the inventor of QR codes, highlighting...
IFS Susanta Nanda Video
A Mother’s Duty: Tigress Watches Over Cubs Splashing in Waterhole — Heartwarming Video Shared By Retd. IFS Officer Susanta Nanda
A tender wildlife video shared by Retd. IFS officer Susanta Nanda shows a tigress keeping watch over...
Mohanmala
Kaziranga Mourns: Beloved Elephant Mohanmala Passes Away After Five Decades of Service
Kaziranga National Park mourns the loss of Mohanmala, a beloved elephant who served over 50 years as...
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Latest
Kolkata Metro BEML
BEML Supplies 17 Advanced Trainsets for India’s First Underwater Metro; PM Inaugurates Kolkata Metro Link
hydropower projects
Power Ministry Issues New Guidelines for Hydro Projects; CEA Approval Mandatory, Closed-Loop Pumped Storage Exempt
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Videos
Dr
WhatsApp Image 2025-08-11 at 4.48
WhatsApp Image 2025-08-08 at 5.25
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT