TravTalk India Online Magazine
India’s tourism sector is booming, yet critical challenges persist. Despite contributing 11% to the GDP, the industry struggles with basic amenities like clean toilets and high inter-state taxes. Pandian Kumaravel, MD, Cholan Tours, says that redressal of the issues can unlock India’s full tourism potential.
Surbhi Sharma
India’s tourism sector has seen a significant growth over the past two decades, and Cholan Tours, has been at the forefront of this transformation. With 12 offices across the country, which primarily cater to inbound and domestic tourists in South India, the brand stands as one of the strongest travel service providers in India, with a growing fleet of premium vehicles.
Pandian Kumaravel, Managing Director, Cholan Tours, feels that India faces significant challenges that hinder the full potential of tourism growth. “As spiritual tourism is on the rise and Tamil Nadu is emerging as a leader in the current scenario leaving Kerala behind, the need for improved tourism infrastructure to accommodate the growing number of visitors has become a necessity. As pilgrimage destinations are witnessing unprecedented footfall, with travellers seeking cultural and religious experiences, one of the most pressing issues is the lack of basic infrastructure, particularly clean public restrooms. This is a major concern for senior citizens and women travellers, making long journeys arduous,” says Pandian.
“Another challenge is the high tax burden on inter-state travel. Taxation policies across different states create logistical and financial hurdles, limiting the seamless movement of tourists. These barriers need urgent policy interventions to make travel more accessible and affordable,” he stresses.
Need for govt intervention
Emphasising that tourism contributes significantly to India’s GDP, accounting for 11 per cent currently and projected to reach 14 per cent by 2027, Pandian says, “Despite its economic significance, the government has yet to grant tourism industry status. Compared to other industries receiving considerable government backing despite contributing far less to GDP, tourism sector remains overlooked.”
He said a simple, yet impactful intervention would be improving basic infrastructure—clean public restrooms, designated parking areas, and safer public spaces. “If these fundamental needs are met, the tourism industry would require little to no marketing, as satisfied travellers would become natural ambassadors for Indian tourism,” he underlines.
Call for action
India’s tourism potential is immense, but realising it requires collaborative efforts between private stakeholders and the government. The industry does not seek handouts—just recognition and essential infrastructural support. “If India is to truly harness its tourism potential, policymakers must take immediate steps to address the existing gaps. By improving facilities, reducing bureaucratic barriers, and recognising tourism as a key industry, we can position India as a world-class destination for travellers across the globe,” he feels.
With an ever-increasing number of tourists exploring India, Cholan Tours is investing in modern, high-quality transport solutions. Recently, it added two brand-new Volvo buses to its fleet and are in the process of acquiring 10 more buses and 50 Toyota Crystas.
