TravTalk India Online Magazine
India’s tourism industry is undergoing a transformative phase, with rapid growth in infra, MICE tourism and aviation. Government is taking initiatives to develop new destinations and experiences, says Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Tourism Minister, GoI.
Surbhi Sharma
Highlighting the evolving nature of India’s tourism industry and its emerging position as a major global tourism market, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Tourism Minister, Government of India, said that the country is no longer just a destination for travellers, but it is becoming a vibrant hub for tourism, driven by robust growth in various sectors, including MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism.
“We are no longer just a destination but a rapidly growing tourism market. The country’s expanding infrastructure, including the construction of state-of-the-art complexes, indicates that India stands at the threshold of immense possibilities in the tourism sector,” he said. The minister emphasised the need for comprehensive infrastructure development across the country to support this surge.
In recent years, India has witnessed a notable increase in the number of hotels and accommodations to meet the rising demand. The aviation sector is also set for substantial growth, with the number of aircraft in the country expected to triple in the coming years, catering to both domestic and international travellers.
The Indian government is fully aligned with this growth and is actively working with state governments to develop 40 new tourist destinations across the nation. Additionally, the government is encouraging the creation of unique tourism experiences that highlight India’s cultural and geographical diversity.
Shekhawat further mentioned the rise of domestic trade and the growing disposable incomes of Indian citizens, playing a key role in boosting the tourism industry. “As investments pour into tourism infrastructure, the sector is expected to create a ripple effect across the economy, driving growth in related industries, such as hospitality, transport, and services,” he said.
With new opportunities emerging across various segments in India, MICE tourism stands out as a key driver of growth, offering immense potential for economic impact. Highlighting this potential, the tourism minister stated, “The future holds significant promise, particularly with the rise of MICE tourism, which necessitates robust infrastructure across the country. New tourism segments are emerging, with MICE tourism being the most critical. The development of infrastructure in Delhi, Mumbai, and other cities underscores India’s strong potential in this space. There is a need for discussions on how India can position itself as a leading centre for MICE tourism. Several global events could be calendarised and brought to the country.”
Looking ahead, the tourism sector is projected to grow at a CAGR of 24 per cent. With this accelerated growth, Shekhawat believes that India’s tourism landscape is poised for a transformative journey, with immense potential to contribute to the country’s economic development and global tourism stature. “Besides being a destination, India is also becoming a big tourism market with a great future in the tourism sector,” Shekhawat said.
