Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat has emphasized that India’s tourism sector has the potential to double its contribution to GDP with supportive policy measures, including GST reforms. Speaking at the 12th Annual Convention of the Indian Heritage Hotels Association (IHHA), Shekhawat highlighted that while tourism currently contributes only 5–6% of India’s GDP, the global average stands close to 10%, leaving vast room for growth. “With our unmatched cultural richness and diversity, India can push tourism to become a larger driver of the economy,” he said.
Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari underlined the sector’s economic significance, noting that India’s travel and tourism industry generated ₹20.9 lakh crore in 2024 and created 4.65 crore jobs, reinforcing its role as a major source of employment. Industry leaders, including IHHA President Emeritus HH Maharaja Gaj Singh, stressed the need to preserve heritage properties while simultaneously upgrading visitor experiences to meet modern expectations.
The convention served as a call to action, urging stakeholders to promote lesser-known destinations, adopt sustainable practices, and balance heritage conservation with tourism growth. With collective efforts and global benchmarks in mind, the sector aims to raise India’s tourism contribution to levels comparable with international standards, solidifying the country’s position as both a cultural hub and economic powerhouse.
