Domestic tourism in India is poised to grow exponentially, outpacing the nation’s economic growth by 15% over the next five years, according to Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of Tourism & Culture, Government of India. Addressing an elite gathering at the BOTT Knowledge Conclave: Tourism@2025, held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, the Minister spotlighted India’s unprecedented strides in the tourism sector, cementing the nation’s position as a global travel hub.
“India has witnessed a remarkable 95.64% increase in domestic tourist numbers, propelling the country’s ranking on the Global Travel and Tourism Development Index from 65 to 39. Investments exceeding ₹6,800 crore have been directed towards destination development, with additional projects worth ₹3,295.76 crore approved to enhance lesser-known tourism sites across states. Initiatives like the e-tourist visa facility have greatly benefited international visitors,” said Shri Shekhawat.
Highlighting the sector’s pivotal role in economic growth, the Minister emphasized a paradigm shift from monumental tourism to experiential tourism. He also acknowledged emerging trends in MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism and medical tourism, while underscoring the need for enhanced infrastructure to meet global standards.
“Tourism connects cultures and bridges nations. The ‘Whole of Government’ approach initiated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has redefined the tourism landscape by integrating development and heritage preservation. This transformative vision has not only fuelled domestic tourism but also elevated India’s global standing,” he added. “We must collaborate to ensure that tourism becomes the driving engine of the Indian economy.We are preparing for 45 crores visitors for Maha Kumbh.”
Tourism@2025: A Vision Unveiled
The event marked the grand launch of Tourism@2025, an international publication offering forward-looking insights into global travel trends and India’s pivotal role in shaping the future of tourism. With its emphasis on experiential travel, heritage exploration, and wellness tourism, the publication sets the stage for a thriving tourism ecosystem.
Vows & Vacay, a new consumer magazine focusing on weddings and vacations, was also officially launched during a special Cover Launch Ceremony. The magazine is published by More Media, promising to blend the luxury of weddings with the allure of travel. The magazine aims to cater to a niche audience interested in the intersection of weddings, luxury, and travel, presenting the best trends, insights, and services in these industries.
Mugdha Sinha, Director General of Tourism, Government of India, shared her insights, stating, “Tourism holds the transformative power to reshape the way the world works. It can elevate the per capita income of the nation, generate employment on a massive scale, and bring communities closer together. To harness this potential, we must ensure that the governance of our tourism infrastructure aligns seamlessly with global standards and vocabulary, enabling India to shine brighter on the world stage.Domestic tourism is already witnessing remarkable growth, fuelled by a growing interest in experiential travel, heritage exploration, and wellness tourism. Simultaneously, we are optimistic about a robust rebound in inbound tourism, as international travellers rediscover India’s timeless charm and unparalleled hospitality. By working together, we can make inbound tourism not only viable but immensely profitable, turning it into a cornerstone of India’s economic future.”
In-Depth Discussions and Keynote Insights
The conclave featured two high-impact sessions: the rise of inbound tourism and the evolving dynamics of outbound travel. Esteemed panellists explored India’s growing global appeal, the role of sustainable and wellness tourism, and the increasing demand for experiential and luxury travel.
Ankush Nijhawan, Joint Managing Director of TBO.com, delivered the keynote address, providing a comprehensive overview of the sector’s growth potential. He emphasized India’s unique position in leveraging its rich cultural heritage and modern advancements to attract global and domestic travellers alike.
A Stellar Line-Up of Speakers
The event features an extraordinary lineup of distinguished speakers, promising engaging discussions and thought-provoking insights. In the first session, the panel includes:
•Ms. Mugdha Sinha, Director General, Tourism, Govt. of India
•Dr. Jyotsna Suri, Chairperson & Managing Director, The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group
•Mr. Anshul Sethi, Head of Sales – India, IndiGo
•Mr. Rajeev Kohli, CIS, CITP, DMCP, Joint Managing Director, Creative Travel
•Ms. Tanuja Pandey, Advisor & Steering Committee Member, Directorate of Tourism, Maharashtra, and Founder Director, Miceonline&Uniqstays
•Mr. Ankur Kalra, General Secretary, EEMA
The second session features an equally accomplished panel:
•Ms. Yummi Talwar, Chief Operating Officer for the South Asia Region, VFS Global
•Mr. Manish Puri, Head of Sales, Air India Limited
•Ms. Seema Roy Kapoor, Area Managing Director – South Asia, Middle East & Africa, Preferred Hotels & Resorts
•Ms. Isha Goyal, CEO, STIC Travel Group
•Mr. Dev Karvat, Founder & CEO, Asego
•Ms. Surabhi Rana, Head – Air Service Development, Noida International Airport
•Mr. Rajeev Jain, Senior Member, EEMA
•Ms. Priyanka Saxena, Founder Editor, BOTT – Business of Travel Trade
•Ms. Gunjan Sabikhi, Director, BOTT
Their collective expertise and diverse perspectives promise invaluable insights into the rapidly evolving global tourism industry.
The BOTT Knowledge Conclave is honoured to have the steadfast support of the Ministry of Tourism and our esteemed Valued Partners: Delhi Tourism, Maharashtra Tourism, Uttar Pradesh Tourism, Madhya Pradesh Tourism, EEMA, ITQ, Air India, ASEGO, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, Le Meridien New Delhi, Expo Inn, Martinhal Resorts, Saraca Hotels & Resorts, Fly24, The Deccan Odyssey, Eros Hotel, Kazin DMC, The Boutique Collection by Outbound Marketing, Communication Casa, Elios Management Consulting, and Mayfair Hotels & Resorts. Your partnerships truly empower our mission—may our journey be smooth and free of turbulence!
The conclave was supported by Association Partners: IATO, TAAI, TAFI, ADTOI, ATOAI, OTOAI, ICPB, TIA, ETTA, UTEN, the Chamber for Service Industry, and ITTA. Together, we are driving innovation and fostering growth in India’s dynamic tourism sector. A Promising Future
As the curtains fell on the BOTT Knowledge Conclave: Tourism@2025, one message was clear: India’s tourism sector is at the cusp of a transformative era. With its unique blend of tradition and innovation, India is ready to claim its rightful place as a global tourism powerhouse. The collective efforts of government bodies, industry leaders, and visionaries will ensure that tourism becomes a key driver of the nation’s economic growth in the years to come.
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