Targeting 10 Percent of GDP by 2047
India’s Tourism Push for a $32 Trillion Vision: India has set a bold objective — to increase the tourism sector’s contribution to 10% of GDP by 2047. This aligns with the overarching Vision 2047 of becoming a $32 trillion economy. With tourism currently contributing around 5–6% to GDP, this target demands structural transformation.
Static GK fact: As per the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), India ranked 14th globally in tourism receipts in 2023.
A Growth Sector with National Impact
Tourism is one of the most labour-intensive industries. It generates large-scale employment across urban and rural sectors. With 24% Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) forecasted, tourism is poised to become a key economic pillar.
It also strengthens foreign exchange reserves, fosters global image-building, and supports regional development, especially through spiritual and eco-tourism.
Diverse Tourism Offerings Across India
India’s tourism landscape is expansive, covering traditional, modern, and niche sectors:
- Spiritual Tourism: Religious hubs like Varanasi, Rameswaram, and Bodh Gaya attract pilgrims year-round.
- Medical Tourism: The “Heal in India” program promotes world-class affordable healthcare.
- Cultural Tourism: Events like Taj Mahotsav and Pushkar Mela highlight regional traditions.
- Adventure and Wildlife Tourism: Sites in Ladakh, Jim Corbett, and Kaziranga are major attractions.
- Beach Tourism: Goa, Andaman & Nicobar, and Kerala remain evergreen coastal favourites.
Key Barriers to Growth
Despite potential, India’s tourism faces several persistent challenges:
- Infrastructure Gaps: Poor last-mile connectivity in many tourist circuits.
- Seasonality: Tourism peaks are concentrated in short windows.
- Environmental Stress: Tourist pressure on ecologically fragile areas.
- Inconsistent Service Standards: Lack of trained staff and quality assurance.
- Insufficient Promotion: Lesser-known sites remain off the radar.
Major Government Interventions
The 2025 Union Budget reinforced tourism as a development priority:
- 50 Destination Challenge Mode: Focused funding and development of key sites.
- Swadesh Darshan 2.0: Promotes theme-based tourism circuits with world-class amenities.
- PRASHAD Scheme: Modernisation of pilgrimage destinations.
- Medical Tourism Facilitation: Faster visa processing and PPPs in healthcare access.
- Atithi Devo Bhava: Hospitality training to improve tourist experience.
- Eco-Tourism Certification: Emphasis on green, responsible tourism practices.
Static GK Tip: PRASHAD Scheme was launched in 2014 under the Ministry of Tourism to enhance spiritual and heritage destinations.
Vision 2047 and State Participation
Achieving the 2047 tourism vision requires a multi-level governance approach. States are incentivised through performance-based rewards. MUDRA loans for homestays and community-led tourism initiatives will be crucial.
With robust marketing, digital tourism platforms, and ecological safeguards, India aims to transform tourism into a global benchmark.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
India’s Tourism Push for a $32 Trillion Vision:
| Topic | Detail |
| Current GDP contribution of tourism | Around 5–6% |
| Vision 2047 tourism target | 10% of GDP |
| Global tourism ranking (2023) | 14th in receipts |
| CAGR for Indian tourism | Estimated 24% |
| Launch year of PRASHAD Scheme | 2014 |
| Key medical tourism scheme | Heal in India |
| Cultural tourism event | Taj Mahotsav |
| Coastal tourism hotspot | Andaman & Nicobar Islands |
| Major eco-tourism region | Kaziranga National Park |
| Infrastructure scheme (2025 Budget) | 50 Destination Challenge |
