Centre’s Role in Promoting Medical and Wellness Tourism
The Ministry of Tourism promotes India as a holistic destination through multiple campaigns and initiatives. Medical and wellness tourism form an integral part of this broader promotional strategy, alongside heritage, spiritual, adventure and eco-tourism segments.
However, the Minister clarified that the Ministry has not conducted any independent study to assess the current status, key challenges or growth potential of medical tourism in India. Additionally, no state-wise or purpose-wise data on foreign tourist arrivals or revenue generated specifically from medical tourism is maintained by the Ministry.
Foreign Tourist Arrivals for Medical Purposes
Despite the absence of a dedicated study, official data from the Bureau of Immigration (BOI) provides insight into medical tourism trends. The figures show a clear recovery in foreign tourist arrivals (FTAs) for medical purposes following the severe disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In 2019, India recorded over 6.97 lakh foreign tourists arriving for medical treatment. The numbers fell sharply in 2020 due to global travel restrictions, dropping to around 1.82 lakh. While arrivals remained subdued in 2021, they began to rebound from 2022 onwards.
Medical FTAs rose to nearly 4.75 lakh in 2022 and further increased to over 6.59 lakh in 2023. In 2024, arrivals stood at approximately 6.44 lakh. Provisional data for January to November 2025 indicates more than 4.50 lakh medical tourists, reflecting sustained demand.
National Strategy to Strengthen Medical Tourism
To provide fresh momentum to the sector and maintain India’s competitive edge, the Ministry of Tourism has formulated a National Strategy and Roadmap for Medical and Wellness Tourism. This document has been circulated to concerned Central Ministries, State Governments and industry stakeholders.
The strategy focuses on improving coordination between healthcare providers, tourism authorities and visa facilitation agencies. It also seeks to enhance India’s global visibility as a trusted destination for quality medical and wellness services.
Digital Platforms and Industry Support
Supporting these efforts, the Services Export Promotion Council (SEPC) under the Ministry of Commerce has developed a dedicated portal, indiahealthcaretourism.com. The website provides comprehensive information on accredited hospitals, wellness centres, healthcare providers and visa procedures.
The Ministry of Tourism has integrated links to this portal on its official websites to ensure easy access for international patients seeking reliable information about treatment options in India.
E-Medical Visa Boosts Accessibility
To facilitate smoother entry for foreign nationals seeking medical treatment, the Government of India has extended the e-medical visa and e-medical attendant visa facility. This initiative has significantly simplified the travel process for patients and their caregivers.
The availability of digital visa services, combined with India’s reputation for cost-effective yet high-quality healthcare, continues to strengthen the country’s position in the global medical tourism market.
Outlook and Growth Potential
While official studies on growth potential are yet to be conducted, rising foreign patient numbers and supportive policy measures indicate a positive outlook for India’s medical tourism sector. Experts believe that enhanced infrastructure, standardisation and international accreditation will further boost confidence among overseas patients.
As global healthcare costs rise, India’s blend of affordability, skilled medical professionals and diverse wellness traditions is expected to drive sustained growth in medical and wellness tourism in the coming years.
