"India’s tourism sector witnessing renewed momentum": Rajnath Singh on World Tourism Day
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh celebrates World Tourism Day, highlighting India's massive growth in connectivity, infrastructure, and digital tourism.
On the occasion of World Tourism Day, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has lauded the significant progress being made in the Indian tourism industry. He noted that the sector is experiencing a fresh wave of energy, driven by a strategic focus on improved connectivity, the development of world-class infrastructure, and the preservation of the nation's rich heritage.
In a message shared on X, the Defence Minister highlighted how India's diverse landscape—ranging from ancient temples and historic landmarks to breathtaking natural wonders—offers a unique journey through its deep civilisational roots. He credited the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for steering the sector toward a period of revitalised growth and global recognition.
A Massive Surge in Travel and Economy
The statistics surrounding India's tourism landscape reveal a staggering transformation over recent years. The sector has become a vital pillar of the national economy, contributing 5.22 per cent to India's GDP and supporting approximately 8.46 crore jobs during the 2023-24 period.
The scale of growth in visitor numbers is particularly striking when comparing recent figures to the early 2020s:
- Domestic Tourism: Visits skyrocketed to 428.55 crore in 2025, a massive leap from just 67.7 crore in 2021.
- Foreign Tourism: International arrivals climbed to 2.53 crore in 2025, up from a mere 0.1 crore in 2021.
- Foreign Exchange: Earnings from tourism surged to Rs 2,76,831 crore in 2025, compared to Rs 63,978 crore in 2021.
Technology and AI: The New Frontier
This year's World Tourism Day is observed under the theme “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism.” As technology becomes central to the travel experience, the Indian government is leveraging digital tools to make journeys more seamless and personalised.
The expansion of the e-Visa facility has been a game-changer. Originally launched for 43 countries in 2014, the facility now covers 172 countries with entry permitted through 88 international ports. Currently, about 78 per cent of all visas are issued electronically, with nearly 95 per cent of e-Visa applications being processed within a 72-hour window.
Furthermore, the revamped Incredible India Digital Platform is utilizing AI-powered features to provide virtual experiences. Travelers can now explore cultural, wellness, and adventure attractions digitally, receiving real-time updates such as weather information and city exploration assistance. Looking ahead, the Ministry of Tourism is preparing to launch the National Digital Tourism Stack, while the Dekho Apna Desh 2.0 initiative aims to shine a spotlight on lesser-known destinations.
Investing in the Future of Connectivity
To sustain this momentum, the government is making massive capital investments in physical infrastructure. Under the Modified UDAN scheme, which spans from 2026-27 to 2035-36, an approved budget of Rs 28,840 crore has been set aside. This ambitious plan aims to develop 100 new airports and 200 modern helipads, ensuring that even remote corners of the country become easily accessible to tourists.