BHOPAL: India’s tourism sector is poised for remarkable expansion, with Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat projecting a growth rate exceeding 25 per cent annually. Speaking at the ‘MP Travel Mart’ organised by the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Department, the Minister underscored that tourism has become a vital pillar of the national economy rather than a supplementary industry.
Shekhawat revealed that tourism currently contributes over ₹20 lakh crore to India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), accounting for a substantial share of the nation’s economic activity. He added that the sector provides livelihood opportunities to more than 84 million people across diverse regions, reinforcing its role as one of the country’s largest employment generators.
“At the heart of this transformation lies the belief that tourism is a national priority, not an auxiliary industry,” the Minister remarked. He emphasised that the government’s vision is to transform India into a year-round global destination, harnessing the country’s cultural diversity, natural heritage and infrastructure development.
The ‘MP Travel Mart’, a key annual event in Bhopal, brought together representatives from various states, tourism boards, travel companies and hospitality brands. The forum aimed to highlight Madhya Pradesh’s potential as a cultural and eco-tourism hub while fostering partnerships between government agencies and private stakeholders.
Shekhawat lauded Madhya Pradesh’s growing reputation as the “heart of India,” noting its rich heritage sites, wildlife sanctuaries and spiritual destinations. He encouraged state authorities to continue investing in sustainable tourism infrastructure and digital platforms to attract both domestic and international visitors.
He also outlined that the Centre is focused on improving connectivity and developing tourist circuits that link historical, natural and religious destinations. “The future of Indian tourism depends on how well we integrate culture, conservation and convenience,” he said, stressing the importance of preserving India’s cultural heritage while modernising tourist facilities.
Industry experts attending the event expressed optimism about the sector’s trajectory, citing a surge in domestic travel post-pandemic and rising global interest in India’s cultural experiences.
With continued investment and innovation, the tourism industry is set to play a decisive role in achieving the government’s broader goal of inclusive and sustainable economic growth. As Shekhawat concluded, “Tourism is not merely an economic activity-it is a bridge that connects India to the world and celebrates the spirit of our civilisation.”
