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India as a Tourism Hub: Building a Competitive, Inclusive, and Sustainable Tourism Economy

UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Economy

EconomyCulture

Why in news

India is emerging as a major global tourism destination, with record domestic tourist visits and a strong recovery in international arrivals. The tourism sector's significant contribution to GDP and employment underscores its role as a key engine of national development.

Background

India's tourism sector leverages its civilizational heritage, natural diversity, spiritual appeal, and expanding tourism economy. Recent improvements in infrastructure, transport, digital platforms, and global promotion are driving the sector towards high-value tourism experiences.

Key facts

in5points

  1. In 2024, 2.9 billion domestic tourist visits were recorded, surpassing pre-pandemic levels.

  2. In 2025, approximately 20.2 million international tourists visited India.

  3. The tourism industry contributed ₹15.73 lakh crore to India's GDP in FY 2023-24, accounting for 5.22% of the total economy.

  4. The tourism and hospitality sector supported 8.46 crore jobs in 2023-24.

  5. In 2025, foreign exchange earnings from international tourism were about USD 31.7 billion.

  6. India has 44 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

  7. India has 106 national parks and 18 biosphere reserves.

  8. The sector supports a wide ecosystem including hospitality, transport, handicrafts, food services, wellness, culture, and local enterprises.

Prelims pointers

  • UNESCO World Heritage Sites: 44
  • National Parks: 106
  • Biosphere Reserves: 18
  • Domestic tourist visits in 2024: 2.9 billion
  • International tourist arrivals in 2025: ~2.02 crore
  • Tourism GDP contribution FY 2023-24: ₹15.73 lakh crore (5.22% of GDP)
  • Employment supported by tourism in 2023-24: 8.46 crore
  • Foreign exchange earnings from tourism in 2025: ~USD 31.7 billion

Mains angles

  • Discuss the role of tourism in India's economic growth and employment generation.
  • Examine the challenges and opportunities in making India a global tourism hub.
  • Analyze the impact of tourism on local livelihoods and cultural preservation.