Union Minister Highlights the Unmatched Potential of India's Tourism Industry

Jaipur, Dec 9 (NationPress) Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on Monday underscored the vast opportunities within India's tourism sector, declaring it to be superior to that of any other nation worldwide.

“With a rich history spanning over 5,000 years, 43 World Heritage Sites, 56 potential World Heritage Sites, and approximately 3,500 monuments of national importance, India's cultural heritage is a powerful testament to its global influence,” the minister remarked during the ‘Embracing Diversity: Promoting Inclusive Tourism’ session at Rising Rajasthan.

He further stressed that the essence of tourism is rooted more in its cultural significance than in its economic or commercial facets. He emphasized the need to recognize the cultural elements that have forged India’s identity.

Additionally, he referenced Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Virasat Bhi Vikas Bhi’ (heritage and development), which has catalyzed the nation’s advancement, linking India's historical uniqueness with contemporary accomplishments.

The minister credited India's status as the world's fastest-growing economy to its profound cultural pride.

He also highlighted the substantial progress in the tourism sector, citing developments such as a 150,000 km road network, the establishment of 500 new air routes, the construction of 150 new airports, and the launch of high-speed trains like Vande Bharat.

The completion of 100 tourism infrastructure projects has ushered in a new phase of connectivity and travel convenience. The success of the G-20 presidency, which showcased over 60 Indian destinations, has also increased global interest in India.

“Consequently, India's tourism sector has generated 76.17 million jobs, rising from 69.56 million in 2013-2014, while foreign exchange earnings surged from $19.69 billion in 2014 to $28.07 billion in 2023, reflecting a 42.53 percent growth,” he stated.

He reiterated that the Ministry of Tourism aims to develop tourism as a catalyst for sustainable, inclusive economic growth.

Key initiatives include enhancing the overall tourist experience, developing new destinations, equipping individuals with tourism skills, encouraging private sector involvement, and establishing favorable conditions in cooperation with states and union territories.

Shekhawat also acknowledged Rajasthan's outstanding contribution to the tourism sector, noting that it accounts for approximately 12 percent of the state’s GDP, the highest in India. Tourist arrivals in Rajasthan are anticipated to increase from 5.38 crore in 2019 to 18.07 crore in 2023.

As part of the Golden Triangle Circuit, Rajasthan draws 35 percent of India’s foreign tourists. The state features nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is a favored location for destination weddings and heritage and leisure tourism.

Moreover, Rajasthan hosts 68 percent of India’s heritage hotels. The state’s tourism prospects are further enhanced by the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor and the Dedicated Freight Corridor, which include significant segments in Rajasthan.

Shekhawat mentioned the rise in investments in the tourism and hospitality sectors in Rajasthan, growing from ₹1,689 crore in 2015-16 to ₹4,847 crore in 2023-24. Rajasthan was the first state to confer industrial status to the tourism and hospitality sector, a model now being emulated by other states and union territories.

The Ministry of Tourism has also developed a handbook for other states to emulate Rajasthan's achievements. Both central and state governments are collaboratively working to establish Rajasthan as a major global destination as part of the state’s Vision 2047.

The Union Minister confirmed that the Ministry of Tourism is devoted to facilitating Rajasthan’s tourism growth and will continue to provide all necessary support to ensure its success.