India’s rise to become the world’s 8th largest tourism economy by 2025, surpassing Japan and France, is a notable achievement from its 10th place in 2024. This milestone, as reported by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), is attributed to strategic government policies, infrastructure development, cultural richness, and a strong post-pandemic recovery, both domestically and internationally, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. The prospect of India becoming the 4th largest tourism economy by 2034 appears highly feasible. In 2023, tourism contributed $199.6 billion to India’s economy, supporting 32.1 million jobs.

The WTTC projects that by 2034, India’s tourism economy could reach $400 billion, representing over 7.2 per cent of GDP and employing over 64 million individuals. With 43 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a vast coastline, Himalayan peaks, and a rich tapestry of Sanatani traditions, India offers a diverse blend of spiritual, cultural, adventure, and wellness tourism. The Modi government’s ambitious goal is to have tourism contribute over 10 per cent to the national GDP by 2047.

Since 2014, a series of policy reforms and initiatives have transformed the tourism landscape, addressing persistent challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, limited global promotion, and bureaucratic hurdles. Swadesh Darshan, launched in 2014–15, aimed to develop thematic tourism circuits like the Buddhist Circuit, Ramayana Circuit, and Wildlife Circuit to promote niche tourism. Although the initial phase faced challenges, the launch of Swadesh Darshan 2.0 in 2022 with a more focused approach has yielded remarkable results.

Pilot projects in destinations like Orchha (Madhya Pradesh), Gandikota (Andhra Pradesh), and Bodh Gaya (Bihar) have enhanced local infrastructure while preserving environmental and cultural heritage, making lesser-known destinations more accessible and boosting both domestic and international tourism.

The Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive (PRASAD) scheme has played a vital role in enhancing religious tourism. With 73 projects sanctioned by 2024, involving an investment of Rs 1400 crore, the scheme has revitalised sacred sites like the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor in Varanasi, Kedarnath, and Ayodhya. These projects have not only improved infrastructure but also created thousands of jobs and boosted local economies. For example, the redevelopment of Ayodhya, especially after the consecration of the Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir, has led to unprecedented footfalls, significantly contributing to tourism revenue.

The UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme,........

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