In the fast-changing landscape of global travel, Dr. Subhash Goyal, Chairman of STIC Travel Group, continues to be one of the most influential voices advocating for India’s rightful place as a premier global tourism hub.
During recent interactions between April and June 2025, Dr. Goyal made a strong case for bold reforms and long-term planning. He has been a vocal proponent of liberalizing India’s aviation sector through an expanded Open Sky Policy, which he believes would usher in greater connectivity, more competitive airfares, and increased inbound tourism. “Opening our skies isn’t just about more flights—it’s about inviting more opportunities,” he emphasized.
Dr. Goyal has also raised critical concerns about budget cuts in tourism promotion. He lamented the sharp reduction in funds allocated to the Ministry of Tourism, noting that such decisions severely limit India’s global outreach. “We once led with the Incredible India campaign. Today, we risk fading from the world’s radar at major international trade fairs.”
He further stressed the need for specialized tourism marketing teams in global markets, pointing out that embassies alone cannot be expected to shoulder this task effectively. According to him, deploying dedicated professionals with tourism expertise abroad would make a real difference in converting interest into footfall.
Turning to traveler behavior, Dr. Goyal noted a clear shift in the Indian outbound market. “Today’s Indian traveler is no longer interested in just sightseeing. They want immersive experiences—festivals, culture, cuisine, and community.” He added that Indian outbound tourists largely comprise the upper-middle class and affluent groups, making them high-value visitors for many destinations.
Recognized for his lifetime contribution to the industry, Dr. Goyal was recently honored with a prestigious accolade. In his acceptance remarks, he reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the sector: “Till my last breath, I will leave no stone unturned to help India realize its true potential as one of the world’s greatest tourist destinations.”
As the country navigates the next phase of tourism development, Dr. Goyal’s insights remain rooted in both vision and realism—calling on policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders to think big, act fast, and stay committed.
