India’s Tourism Sector Holds Extraordinary Potential: Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat

Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat emphasized the immense potential of India’s tourism sector, positioning it as one of the most extraordinary globally. Speaking at the ‘Embracing Diversity: Promoting Inclusive Tourism’ session at the Rising Rajasthan event, Shekhawat highlighted India’s rich cultural history, which spans over 5,000 years and includes 43 World Heritage Sites, 56 potential World Heritage Sites, and around 3,500 monuments of national importance. These, he said, are evidence of India’s cultural strength and appeal.

Shekhawat stressed that the significance of tourism in India goes beyond economic and business aspects—it is rooted deeply in the country’s culture. “Our understanding of cultural elements is key to promoting tourism,” he explained. He further credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership and vision, which links India’s development to its traditional uniqueness. “India’s pride in its culture is a major reason for its status as the world’s fastest-growing economy,” he added.

Transformational Growth In India’s Tourism Infrastructure

India’s tourism sector has made remarkable strides, according to Shekhawat. He pointed to the country’s extensive road network of 1,50,000 km, 500 new air routes, 150 new airports, and high-speed trains like Vande Bharat as significant milestones in improving tourism infrastructure. Moreover, he highlighted the global recognition of over 60 destinations during India’s G-20 presidency, further increasing global interest in India. In 2022-2023, the tourism sector created 76.17 million jobs, marking a notable increase from 69.56 million in 2013-2014. Foreign exchange earnings also saw a rise, climbing from US $19.69 billion in 2014 to US $28.07 billion in 2023—a 42.53% increase.

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Under the vision of a developed India, the Ministry of Tourism is focused on making tourism a driver of sustainable, responsible, and inclusive economic growth. Shekhawat outlined several goals, including enhancing the overall tourist experience, developing new destinations, empowering individuals through tourism skills, and fostering public-private partnerships for tourism growth.

Rajasthan: A Model For Tourism Development

Shekhawat praised Rajasthan as a role model for other states due to its significant contribution to the tourism sector, which accounts for about 12% of the state’s GDP. He noted that tourist arrivals in Rajasthan have increased dramatically, with the number of visitors rising from 5.38 crore in 2019 to an estimated 18.07 crore in 2023. Rajasthan’s role as a major part of the Golden Triangle Circuit, which attracts 35% of India’s foreign tourists, adds to its status as a key tourism hub. The state also boasts nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is a top destination for heritage and leisure tourism, as well as destination weddings.

In a groundbreaking move, Rajasthan became the first state to grant industrial status to the tourism and hospitality sector. This initiative, according to Shekhawat, has set an example for other states and union territories. The Ministry of Tourism has developed a handbook based on Rajasthan’s experience to guide other regions in adopting similar measures. Shekhawat also assured that the Central and State Governments are working tirelessly to transform Rajasthan into a global tourism destination as part of the state’s Vision 2047.

Increased Investment And Future Prospects

Investment in Rajasthan’s tourism and hospitality sector has seen significant growth, rising from ₹1,689 crore in 2015-16 to ₹4,847 crore in 2023-24. This uptick highlights the state’s increasing importance as a tourist destination and its expanding infrastructure.

Shekhawat concluded by reaffirming the Ministry of Tourism’s commitment to supporting Rajasthan’s tourism development, ensuring that it continues to lead the way in India’s tourism sector.