India’s tourism sector generated a massive INR. 15.73 lakh crore in 2023–24, contributing 5.22% to the country’s GDP, according to provisional estimates from the National Account Statistics 2025. The figures underline the sector’s growing economic significance and its role as a key driver of jobs, investment, and cultural exchange.
Union Tourism and Culture Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat shared the data in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha, highlighting a series of initiatives aimed at boosting foreign tourist arrivals and strengthening the domestic tourism economy.
Infrastructure Development and Promotion
The Ministry of Tourism is working through schemes such as Swadesh Darshan, PRASHAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive), and Assistance to Central Agencies for Tourism Infrastructure Development. These programmes provide financial support to States, Union Territories, and central agencies for the creation of tourism infrastructure and visitor facilities across India.
Tourism promotion campaigns such as Dekho Apna Desh, Chalo India, International Tourism Mart, and Bharat Parv are being used to showcase India’s destinations both domestically and globally. The Ministry is also pushing thematic tourism segments like wellness, culinary, rural, and eco-tourism to expand India’s offerings to niche markets.
Skill Development and Visitor Experience
To enhance service quality, the Ministry has launched training and certification programmes such as Capacity Building for Service Providers, the Incredible India Tourist Facilitator (IITF) certification, Paryatan Mitra, and Paryatan Didi. These initiatives are designed to equip tourism stakeholders with modern skills, ensuring a better experience for visitors.
Cleanliness and Sustainability
Recognising the importance of maintaining cleanliness at tourist sites, the Ministry has implemented the Swachhta Action Plan in coordination with the Ministry of Jal Shakti. This includes awareness drives, anti-plastic campaigns, and cleanliness programmes through institutions like the Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management (IITTM) and Institutes of Hotel Management (IHMs) across the country.
Safety and Security
Tourist safety remains a priority, with the Ministry urging States and UTs to establish dedicated tourism police units. As a result, several states—including Goa, Kerala, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Delhi have deployed tourist police in some form to ensure a secure environment for travellers.
Minister Shekhawat stressed that these combined efforts are not only driving economic growth but also positioning India as a global tourism leader, blending heritage, hospitality, and innovation.
