India cannot be compared to any other country in terms of economic growth or even tourism: India has a unique identity defined by our high domestic potential,” Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Minister of Tourism & Culture at the 18th CII Annual Tourism Summit
“India cannot be compared to any other country in terms of economic growth or even tourism because India has a unique identity defined by our high domestic potential,” said Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Hon’ble Minister of Tourism & Culture, Government of India, at the Inaugural Session of the 18th CII Annual Tourism Summit 2024.
Shri Shekhawat highlighted that India has an edge over competing countries like Singapore, Thailand, Dubai, etc., as, though there is an influx of foreign tourists, their countries’ domestic potential is almost negligible. India, on the other hand, being the most populous country, has high domestic potential, which is growing at a rapid rate. He further added that post-COVID, tourism in India has seen a significant boom, driven by domestic tourists whose spending power has increased tremendously and will continue to grow. The growth of the middle class in India further contributes to this immense future potential, leading to endless possibilities.
The Minister emphasized that infrastructure for tourism is a critical factor and has seen huge progress in the last 10 years, thanks to the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. He highlighted key developments such as the construction of 150,000 km of roads, doubling of the number of functional airports, nearly complete electrification of railway tracks, the introduction of new-generation trains, and the identification of 102 inland waterways. Additionally, the availability of low-cost data has opened new avenues for tourism.
Shri Shekhawat also pointed to the forthcoming Coldplay concert as a key example of experiential tourism, with an economic value of about INR 400-500 crores per show. He further emphasized that the definition of tourism is changing, and India, already known for spiritual tourism and nature-based tourism, needs to embrace newer concepts to stay ahead.
On India’s journey toward becoming a USD 34 trillion economy, Shri Shekhawat asserted that tourism can be a game-changer by contributing about USD 3 million. He called for collaboration to identify gaps and work together to bridge them, adding that CII has a significant role to play in this endeavor.
The CII EY Report on the Employment Landscape in Tourism and Hospitality in India was also released during the session.
Ms. Sumita Dawra, Secretary, Ministry of Labour & Employment, Government of India, emphasized the immense potential of tourism for the country’s growth. She highlighted the sector’s role as a multiplier of economic growth, creating jobs both directly and indirectly, and driving investments and foreign exchange earnings.
She further noted that tourism contributes to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by generating employment, economic growth, and promoting gender equality. Ms. Dawra stressed that the true power of tourism lies in uplifting communities and contributing to the local economy. She added that initiatives like ‘Make in India,’ ‘Heal in India,’ ‘Study in India,’ and ‘Wed in India’ are creating immense potential to benefit local economies.
Ms. Dawra concluded by stating that tourism, hospitality, education, and the care economy will be the key sectors for employment in the future. With India’s demographic dividend, the country is well-positioned to harness the full potential of tourism.
Mr. Puneet Chhatwal, Chairman, CII National Committee on Tourism and Hospitality and MD & CEO of Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), shared his thoughts on India’s position in the global tourism landscape. He gave the example of Paris, which attracts 25 million international visitors annually, compared to India, which struggles to attract even 10 million foreign arrivals, despite its vast and varied offerings.
Mr. Chhatwal stressed that India has a unique opportunity at an inflection point, moving from ‘Incredible India’ to ‘Inevitable India.’ He emphasized that tourism is not just about economic value and job creation, but also about cultural diplomacy, fostering deeper global connections.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Deep Kalra, Co-Chairman, CII National Committee on Tourism and Hospitality and Founder and Chairman of MakeMyTrip, discussed how tourism has evolved into a powerful driver of economic growth, cultural exchange, and human connection. He noted that travel has shifted from a luxury of the few to a transformative experience for millions.
Mr. Kalra also spoke about the limitless possibilities ahead, with the Indian traveler increasingly seeking unexplored destinations and a rise in premium tourism. He highlighted that factors such as last-mile connectivity, innovation, and sustainability will further shape the tourism sector in the coming years.
Ms. Amita Sarkar, Deputy Director General, CII, delivered the opening remarks at the event.
18 December 2024
New Delhi