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“Indiaֱ Tourism: A Beacon of Growth and Opportunity on National Tourism Day”

As India celebratesNationalTourismDay, the spotlight shinesonthe countryֱtourismsector,avital driverofeconomicgrowthandemployment. Indiaֱtourismsector stands asatestament to resilienceandgrowth, showcasing the perfect blendofheritageandinnovation. From ancient monuments to cutting-edge e-tourismservices, the industry is evolving rapidly, creating opportunities for millions while contributing significantly to the nationֱ economy.

BalasubramanianA, Senior VPandBusiness Head at TeamLeaseexpresses,“India’stourismsector has shown remarkable resilience, contributing nearly$11.10 trillionto the GDP in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 10%. Employment in the sector reached 43 million jobs, marking an 8% increase compared to 2019. Looking ahead, the sector is projected to expand further in 2025, with the potential to add 6.1 million jobs by 2034. By 2025, there will be around 31%ofdirect jobs in thetourismsector, involving roles such as tour guides, hotel staff,andtour operators. The remaining 69% will be indirect, encompassing jobs in supply chain management, logistics, IT support,andlandscape maintenance. However, challenges such as workforce shortages in hospitalityandtechnology, lackofconsistent training,anduneven regional development persist. To address these, initiatives like Swadesh Darshan 2.0andDekho Apna Desh focusedoninfrastructure, connectivity,andnichetourism. With airport modernisation, railtourismexpansion,andAI-driven e-tourismservices, these measures are positioning the sector for sustainablegrowthandemployment opportunities.”

Suresh Khadakbhavi, CEO, Digi Yatra Foundation,“The travelandtourismindustry continues to beacritical driverofIndiaֱ economicgrowth, contributing approximately $178 billion to the GDP. With the travel market projected to reach $125 billion by FY 2027andinternational tourist arrivals expected to grow significantly, this yearֱ budget presents anopportunityto create an environment that promotes innovationandeaseofdoing business withastrong focusonan end-to-end seamless Customer Experience.

Technology continues to beakey enablerofgrowthin this space, with advancements in cloud solutions, SaaS technologies,anddigital platforms transforming the traveler experience. There are over 1500 startups in thetourismindustry that offer technology solutions to travel service providers. Initiatives like Digi Yatra, which leverage technology to enhance seamless airport experience, align perfectly with the governmentֱ visionofatech-driven economy, such Privacy PreservingandDecentralized Ecosystems need to be strongly promoted. We are looking forward to policymakers introducing incentivesandframeworks that support tech adoption in thetourismsector, ensuringasustainableandcompetitive ecosystem for businesses while delivering unmatched experiences for travelers.

Furthermore, in the industry at large, granting infrastructure status to smaller projects, simplifying the licensing process,andrationalising GST structures are someofthe critical reforms that can help reduce operational hurdles for travelandhospitality businesses. These measures would encourage more investments, support budding entrepreneurs,andstrengthen Indiaֱ position asaglobal leader intourism.”

Jaideep Kewalramani, COOandHeadofEmployability Business, TeamLease Edtech “Tourismin India isasector waiting to deliver exponentialgrowth. For India, unlike many countries,tourismis multi-faceted – ancient sites, historic monuments, wellness, healthcare, spiritual circuits, nature, wildlife, adventure, shopping, destination eventsandentertainment among others. Top up thetourismavenues with the cultureofAtithi Devo Bhava createsamagical environment for all visitors. Thetourismeconomy can create amazing investmentandenormous job opportunities for the youth. It is estimated that thetourismeconomy contributed about $200Bn which will double every few yearsandhas the potential to contribute Upto 5-7%ofthe GDP over the next few decades.Askilledandeducatedtourismworkforce helps develop this sector. Work integrated learning programs can create opportunities for the youth to acquire higher education in thetourismsector while gaining real world experience with the hospitality industry. Entry level jobs in thetourismsector can attract compensation ranging from 3 lakhs to 8 lakhs per annum dependingonthe skillandeducation level.”

Indiaֱtourismstory is oneofpromiseandpotential. By addressing challenges like skill gapsandembracing technology-driven solutions, the sector can continue to thrive. With initiatives promoting infrastructure, connectivity,andunique experiences, India is poised to captivate global travelersandempower its workforce, makingtourismacornerstoneofnationalgrowth.

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