Infrastructure to Strengthen Cultural Destinations
India’s tourism push is backed by large-scale infrastructure development through flagship schemes such as Swadesh Darshan, Swadesh Darshan 2.0, and PRASHAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive). These initiatives focus on sustainable and responsible tourism while enhancing visitor facilities at key heritage and pilgrimage sites. Additionally, funds from the Special Assistance to States/UTs for Capital Investment (SASCI) are being channelled into improving accessibility and hospitality standards.
Global Branding and Cultural Diplomacy
To enhance India’s global brand as a tourist destination, the Ministry of Tourism has stepped up participation in international travel fairs, exhibitions, and cultural events. States and Union Territories are being supported to showcase their unique festivals, traditions, and local experiences. These efforts position India as not only a travel destination but also a cultural hub with deep-rooted heritage and modern tourism facilities.
Empowering Local Communities
Tourism diplomacy also includes a people-centric approach. Local service providers—ranging from tour guides to homestay owners—are being trained under capacity-building programmes. By equipping local communities with better skills, the government aims to ensure high service standards while generating inclusive livelihood opportunities. This move also fosters responsible tourism where communities directly benefit from visitor inflows.
Digital Transformation in Travel
The Ministry has introduced a revamped version of the Incredible India Digital Platform (IIDP) to meet the demands of modern travellers. The platform is designed as a one-stop hub for exploring destinations, booking travel services, and accessing real-time information. Its AI-driven tools personalize itineraries, provide live weather updates, and integrate with online travel agents (OTAs) for seamless bookings of flights, hotels, cabs, buses, and even monument entry tickets. This digital innovation enhances convenience and strengthens India’s global tourism competitiveness.
Tourism as a Tool for Soft Power
Tourism diplomacy plays a vital role in projecting India’s soft power. Showcasing India’s history, culture, and spiritual traditions helps build cultural connections with global audiences. At the same time, tourism supports economic growth by creating jobs, attracting investments, and boosting foreign exchange earnings. With Viksit Bharat 2047 as the guiding vision, the government’s strategy is to integrate tourism as a core sector of development.
Looking Ahead
Union Minister for Tourism and Culture, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, emphasized in Parliament that India’s tourism initiatives are designed not just to attract visitors but to create sustainable and inclusive growth. By combining infrastructure, digital innovation, community participation, and international branding, India is laying the foundation for a resilient and globally competitive tourism ecosystem.
