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Home » Social Justice » Welfare Schemes » Schemes under Ministry of Tourism

Schemes under Ministry of Tourism

• About the Scheme

About Swadesh Darshan Scheme

Tourism Ministry launched the Swadesh Darshan Scheme.

• To develop theme-based tourist circuits in the country.
• These tourist circuits will be developed on the principles of high tourist value, competitiveness and sustainability in an integrated manner.

Features of Swadesh Darshan Scheme

• The scheme is 100% centrally funded for the project components undertaken for public funding.
• To leverage the voluntary funding available for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)initiatives of Central Public Sector Undertakings and corporate sector.
• Funding of individual project will vary from state to state and will be finalised on the basis of detailed project reports prepared by PMC (Programme Management Consultant).
• A National Steering Committee (NSC)will be constituted with Minister in charge of M/O Tourism as Chairman, to steer the mission objectives and vision of the scheme.
• A Mission Directorate headed by the Member Secretary, NSC as a nodal officer will help in identification of projects in consultation with the States/ UTs governments and other stake holders.
• PMC will be a national level consultant to be appointed by the Mission Directorate.

Introduction

• Introduced in 2015, the Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive (PRASAD) is a government scheme that focuses on identifying and developing the pilgrim sites across the country to enrich the religious tourism experience.
• It was launched by Union Ministry of Tourism.
• It aims at integrated development of pilgrimage destinations in planned, prioritised and sustainable manner to provide complete religious tourism experience.
• Harness pilgrimage tourism for its direct and multiplier effect upon employment generation and economic development.
• Enhance tourist attractiveness in sustainable manner by developing world class infrastructure in the religious destinations.
• It also seeks to promote local art, culture, handicraft, cuisine, etc.
• Under it, Ministry of Tourism provides Central Financial Assistance (CFA) to State Governments for promoting tourism at identified destinations. For components within public funding under this scheme, Central Government will provide 100% fund.
• For improved sustainability of project, it also seeks to involve Public Private Partnership (PPP) and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) as well.

• Monument Mitra
• Significance
• The ‘ Adopt a Heritage Scheme ’ of Ministry of Tourism was launched on World Tourism Day i.e. 27th September, 2017.
• This project is a key initiative of Ministry of Tourism in close collaboration with Ministry of Culture and Archeological Survey of India (ASI), to develop the heritage sites / monuments and making them tourist-friendly to enhance the tourism potential and their cultural importance in a planned and phased manner.

How it works?

• The project plans to entrust heritage sites/monuments and other tourist sites to private sector companies, public sector companies and individuals for the development of tourist amenities.
• The project aims to develop synergy among all partners.

Monument Mitras

• Successful bidders selected for adopting heritage sites / monuments by the Oversight and Vision Committee shall be called as Monument Mitras.
• The basic and advanced amenities of the tourist destinations would be provided by them.
• They would also look after the operations and the maintenance of the amenities.
• The ‘Monument Mitras’ would associate pride with their CSR activities.

Significance of this project

• Adopt a Heritage project is meant to address the challenges that the Archaeological Survey of India and other government bodies are facing in operating tourism infrastructure at heritage sites.
• By allowing private players to build, operate and maintain “tourist-friendly” and “world class amenities at these sites, the expectation is that the project will boost domestic and international tourism.

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Union Budget 2023: Tourism Will Be In 'Mission Mode,' 50 New Destinations To Be Developed

The union budget plans on encouraging domestic travel by bringing in a series scheme and initiatives to improve tourism in india..

By: Priyaja Bakshi Published: Feb 02, 2023 05:06 PM IST

The future of travel in India looks exciting! During the 2023 Union Budget, on February 1, it was announced that a series of measures will be taken up to facilitate and develop tourism in India. Airports, unity malls and special schemes will be implemented throughout the year, with a focus on improving domestic travel. 

Finance minister of India, Nirmala Sitharaman, said that initiatives will be taking place in the upcoming year to improve travel and tourism within India. Here’s the highlight of all the important steps the government will be taking for India’s tourism sector.

This was Nirmala Sitharaman’s fifth budget presentation and the second in a paperless format. During her speech, she emphasised India’s potential for tourism and how the country offers an immense attraction for domestic and foreign tourists. She added that the promotion of tourism will be in “mission mode”.

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How union budget 2023-24 will improve tourism in india, development of 50 tourist destinations.

In her speech, Nirmala Sitharaman mentioned that 50 destinations will be developed to make them more tourist-friendly. The destinations will be selected through “challenge mode”. Major factors like physical connectivity of the destination, tourists’ security, virtual connectivity and more will be looked at with the focus to develop it as a “complete package”. This will be done keeping in mind domestic and foreign travellers.

Focus on encouraging domestic tourism

Initiatives like ‘Dekho Apna Desh’, ‘Swadesh Darshan Scheme’ and Vibrant Villages Programme have been launched to promote domestic tourism. ‘Dekho Apna Desh’ scheme focuses on encouraging the middle class to choose domestic travel over international. ‘Swadesh Darshan Scheme’ plans to create “integrated development of theme-based tourist circuits”. The Vibrant Village Programme will develop tourism infrastructure in border villages.

Promote eco-tourism opportunities

The Union Budget also focused on preservation and conservation. ‘Amrit Dharohar’ scheme plans to support the optimal use of wetlands, enhance biodiversity and encourage ecotourism opportunities within the area.

Starting Unity Malls

In an effort to promote local handicraft products, states will be encouraged to set up Unity malls at prominent tourism centres. These malls will display the state’s own ODOPS (one district, one product) and other GI products.

More airports and improvement of railways

The Union Budget also added that 50 additional airports, heliports, water aerodromes and more such landing grounds will be developed. Furthermore, INR 2.40 lakh crores have been allocated to the railways.

Hero and feature image credit: Shutterstock

Related: Full Moon Tourism: Here’s Where You Can See The Moon In All Its Glory In India

• tourism sector
• Union Budget

Priyaja Bakshi

Priyaja took her love for reading to the next level by majoring in English and minoring in Journalism at Lady Shri Ram College For Women (DU). She is extremely curious about the world and wishes to visit all the countries once in her life. She identifies as a foodie and loves to spend her free time exploring different cuisine and curating new dishes. .. Read More As a former Food Writer at NDTV, she can help you find the best places to eat in Delhi! Read Less

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RECENT POSTS

India's Tourism Sector on the Rise

• Sep 01, 2022, 13:55

Significance of Indian Tourism Sector: India, one of the oldest civilisations in the world, is a multicultural melting pot. The nation is one of the most well-liked tourist destinations globally, owing to its extensive attractions and rich heritage. From the snow-capped Himalayas in the north to the tropical rain forests in the south, India spans an area of 3,287,263 sq. km. The country’s tourism industry has grown significantly due to its rich culture and diversified ecology. India's tourism sector ranks eighth in Gross Domestic Production (GDP) contribution. The revenue of India’s tourism industry stood at US$ 247.3 billion in 2018, representing a 6.7% increase as compared to the previous year and contributing 9.2% of the entire economy. The sector was also one of the largest foreign exchange earners (FEEs).

Rise of Indian Tourism Sector: After the COVID-19 pandemic, many reforms were implemented in India to promote tourism; these policies have significantly boosted the sector. Total FTAs in India surged by 406.6% to 2,764,975 from January-July 2022 compared to the previous year. During this period, the US was the top contributor to FTAs in India, at 25.88%, followed by Bangladesh (18.61%), the UK (10.99%) and Australia (5.16%); the US was among the top 15 source nations. In terms of foreign exchange, India's tourism sector earned US$ 6.96 billion in 2020. This is expected to increase further after the pandemic.

From January-July 2022, the Delhi Airport (among the top 15 major airports in India) accounted for the highest share in FTAs at 31.66%, followed by the Mumbai Airport (13.92%), Chennai Airport (10.41%), Haridaspur Land Check Post (8.82%) and Bengaluru Airport (6.70%). In 2021, India's domestic tourism rose by 11.05%, from 610.21 million to 677.63 million. The top states in terms of domestic visits were Tamil Nadu at 115.33 million, Uttar Pradesh at 109.70 million, Andhra Pradesh at 93.27 million and Karnataka at 81.33 million.

Growth Drivers for Tourism in India: India has seen a sharp rise in FTAs in recent months. This increase in FTAs could be ascribed to various government policies and India-based factors. A few of the major growth factors are described below.

• Vaccination Drive: On 16 January 2021, India began its vaccination campaign to immunise the population against COVID-19. The programme's major goal was to deliver free vaccines to every citizen. This campaign was highly successful – almost 200 crore vaccines were distributed in the first 18 months. This aided India's economic opening and made the country a safe tourism destination.
• Medical and Wellness Tourism: India boasts one of the world's cheapest healthcare systems, with world-class doctors and facilities. The country’s wellness industry is well known around the world. The combination of Eastern healthcare wisdom and Western medical expertise has considerably boosted medical tourism in India. The Indian Government announced the ‘Heal in India’ and ‘Heal by India’ campaigns in May 2022. These programmes’ main aim is to further strengthen the traditional medicine industry and make India a global medical value hub. In 2020, India had 1.83 lakh FTAs for medical purposes.
• Rise in Domestic Tourism: India’s domestic tourism has grown considerably after the pandemic. This growth could be majorly attributed to increasing dispensable income and a rise in India's working class. The country has registered higher spending on leisure tourism compared to business spending tourism.

Government Initiatives In recent years, the Indian Government has recognised tourism's importance in creating jobs and earning foreign exchange. Accordingly, it has taken various measures to boost domestic and international tourism, which has significantly helped the tourism sector. Some of these measures are described below.

• Swadesh Darshan Scheme The Swadesh Darshan scheme, a flagship programme, was launched by the Ministry of Tourism in 2014–15. The scheme aims to encourage theme-based tourism to promote, develop, and capitalise on India's tourist potential. As of March 2022, under this scheme, the Ministry of Tourism had invested Rs. 5,500 crore (US$ 687.84 million) and sanctioned over 76 projects in 31 states/union territories. Furthermore, the ministry developed tourism-related infrastructure at more than 500 tourist destinations. In April 2022, the ministry sanctioned 10 new projects under the heritage circuit theme.
• National Integrated Database of Hospitality Industry (NIDHI) NIDHI is an initiative towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat to use technology to empower businesses. This programme aims to understand the hospitality sector’s geographical spread, size, structure and capacity. As of 27 August 2022, a total of 45,152 accommodations were registered under this portal.
• E-tourist Visa The Indian Government launched this initiative in October 2014. This programme aims to simplify the process of obtaining a tourist visa for foreign nationals. This initiative has helped promote tourism in the country. In 2019, the government granted 2.36 million e-tourist visas.
• Advertising Campaigns The Indian Government has promoted tourism and showcased the country's rich cultural heritage to the world through its ‘Incredible India’ campaign. The campaign aims to promote tourism in India on an international scale. In recent months, the government has taken various initiatives to promote tourism. For instance, it launched the Italy edition of Incredible India Reconnect 2022, a virtual roadshow, to encourage international tourists to visit India. In May 2022, the Ministry of Tourism showcased India’s different tourism products in the Arabian travel market. 

Outlook The Government of India has taken several infrastructural measures to promote tourism in the country; this trend is likely to continue. According to the FICCI, India's travel market is projected to expand to US$ 125 billion by 2027. The tourism and hospitality industry is among the country's largest job providers. In FY20, the tourism sector provided 79.86 million direct and indirect jobs. This trend is expected to continue and help India generate foreign exchange earnings. Moreover, India is likely to focus heavily on the North Eastern states, tapping into the huge potential of the region’s rich culture and heritage and incredible landscape. In February 2022, the Ministry of Tourism sanctioned 16 new projects in the region worth more than Rs. 1,300 crore (US$ 162.58 million); projects like these are expected to promote tourism and help generate jobs and opportunities in the future.

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Ministry of Tourism, in partnership with United Environment Program (UNEP) and Responsible Tourism Society of India (RTSOI) organized National Summit on Developing Sustainable & Responsible Tourist Destinations today in New Delhi. On the occasion, the Ministry of Tourism launched the National Strategy for Sustainable Tourism and Responsible Traveller Campaign .

The Strategy document has identified the strategic pillars for development of sustainable tourism like Promoting Environmental Sustainability, Protecting Biodiversity, Promoting Economic Sustainability, Promoting Socio-Cultural Sustainability, Scheme for Certification of Sustainable Tourism, IEC and Capacity Building and Governance.

Speaking on the occasion Secretary Tourism Shri Arvind Singh said that Tourism and Environment share a Special Relationship. Their interaction with each other is a two-way process. On the one hand environmental resources constitute one of the basic ingredients of tourism. The natural and manmade setting form the tourism products which the tourist enjoys, live in, and relax. On the other hand, the close and direct relationship between visitors, host communities and local environment creates a sensitive situation, whereby tourism can be both very damaging but also very positive for sustainable development. The COVID-19 pandemic has further forced the tourism sector to shift its focus to resiliency, sustainability and interconnectedness among diverse stakeholders in the sector.

Shri Arvind Singh further said that we need to make use of cleaner fuels. Prime Minister has also announced that India will increase its capacity of non-fossil energy capacity to 500 GW and meet 50 per cent of its energy requirements through renewable energy by 2030. “State tourism policies should recognise sustainability principles and the Sustainable Development Goals in their vision and strategic direction for tourism. With the vision to create a sustainable future for tourism, the Ministry of Tourism has also taken various steps in this direction”, he added.

Shri Arvind said that Ministry of Tourism with the objective to provide experience to the tourists launched Swadesh Darshan Scheme and has till now sanctioned 76 Projects. With the learnings of this scheme, we have now revamped the Swadesh Darshan Scheme as Swadesh Darshan 2.0. “The idea of Swadesh Darshan 2.0 is to undertake holistic development with the vision to develop Sustainable and Responsible Tourist Destinations. While formulating the guidelines for SD 2.0 we have kept various elements in mind in order to undertake destination development in a sustainable and responsible manner.Through the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 sustainable and responsible tourism practices will be implemented in various projects and initiatives. The Scheme will encourage adoption of principles of sustainable tourism including environmental, socio-cultural and economic sustainability”, he added.

Apart from Shri Arvind Singh, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Mr Shombi Sharp, Head of UN in India and Shri Rakesh Mathur, President, RTSOI, various eminent Speakers working in the field of Sustainable Tourism & Responsible Travel and from State Governments addressed the participants in different sessions during the One Day National Summit. The Summit was attended by senior officers of different Central Ministries, State Governments/UT Administrations and various Tourism & Hospitality Industry Associations.

A Pledge was also administered by Shri Arvind Singh,Secretary, Ministry of Tourism to the participants to become responsible travellers and be advocates of responsible tourism.

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The growth of tourism and the blue economy in india.

Over three billion people in the world depend on oceans and ocean resources for food and employment, they directly and indirectly employ over 200 million people. Oceans account for over 3 trillion dollars of global GDP, act as carbon sinks which absorb 30% of global carbon emissions, and are the largest primary source of proteins to billions of people.

All along the coast, fishing villages are populated by people dependant directly and indirectly on fishing & other coastal livelihoods. India has about 3288 fishing villages where 10 lakh fish workers are involved in active fishing. While an additional 7 lakh people are involved in fishing allied activities such as making and repairing fishing nets, curing the catch, peeling, and other processing activities. Fishing in India is still largely done by employing traditional fishing methods and of the nearly 9 lakh households that are involved in fishing, 91.3% are traditional fisher folk. Out of this, more than 5 lakh households (over 61%) are below the poverty line.

Over the last decade we’ve begun to hear more and more about the growth of the “Blue Economy” – a term which refers to the “sustainable” use of ocean and marine resources for economic growth, jobs, and improved livelihoods. The economic potential of the oceans is expected to double from US1.5 trillion in 2010 to US3 trillion by 2030. Ocean resources are viewed as lucrative areas for increased investment, including in fisheries, aquaculture, bio-prospecting, renewable energy, oil and gas, and other businesses. Ensuring that socially equitable and sustainable development occurs should be the mandate of governments and industry. Unbridled ocean development produces substantial harms for both the marine environment and the wellbeing of the communities who depend on it.

Coastal, marinem and leisure tourism, central to the Blue economy, promises opportunities at both offshore and onshore coastal areas. The World Travel and Tourism Council reports that tourism in India generates of 15 lakh crore rupees to or 9.4% of India’s GDP (that’s more than two hundred billion US dollars). It also states that nearly 42 million jobs are created in the tourism sector, and predicts that tourism could grow at an annual rate to 32.05 lakh crores by 2028. Developing tourism in the coastal areas with  infrastructure and connectivity is receiving massive impetus from the state. Creation of ‘Special Tourism Zones’ anchored on Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) in partnership with the States was announced in the Budget for 2017- 18.

India is gearing up to develop coastal and cruise tourism. The expansion of the Blue Economy in India is not a simple process or single policy, it is operationalized through a number of policies, schemes, and promotions.

State and National policies are being altered to produce a greater impetus to develop tourism destinations along the coast and provide tourism facilities while promoting investments and providing subsidies to investors who develop tourism. Look at the changes to the Coastal Regulation Zone through Coastal Regulation Zone Notification and the Island Coastal Regulation Zone Notifications. These regulations were conceptualised to provide a regulatory framework for coastal areas and secure the livelihoods of coastal communities. These regulations have been amended over and over again to aid privatization and industrial development of the coasts. As recently as in January, 2019, a fresh set of notifications were notified, which have had the effect of removing most regulations for the coast and facilitating the development of tourism all along the beaches and coasts of India and in the islands of Andaman and Nicobar and Lakshadweep. These changes have been brought in at the cost of lives of livelihoods of coastal and island communities.

The Government of India has launched tourism related schemes such as Swadesh Darshan, which intend to promote tourism circuits and providing basic facilities and ambience in the tourist destinations. Under these schemes, money is being allocated to build tourism infrastructure along the coasts and beaches. 99.2 crore rupees was sanctioned in 2016-17 to develop a coastal tourism circuit in Tamil Nadu under Swadesh Darshan scheme.

Sagarmala scheme also pushes forward Blue Economy tourism development in India. Focused primarily on development of ports and portled infrastructures, port based industrialization and port led logistics. However, a part of the development plan for Sagarmala includes development of high end, luxury, coastal tourism destinations. Additionally, the Sagarmala scheme will aid the development of cruise tourism through the development of ports. The Standard Operating Procedures of Cruises, which are a set of guidelines for operating cruises in India, have been relaxed to aid cruises tourism by reducing taxes, providing priority berthing and facilitating on arrival visas.

Even as all these plans for pushing coastal tourism and cruise tourism are made, there is little understanding on the ground of the impacts such developments will have on coastal communities and if such development will actually benefit them. Any developments that are planned along the coasts and in the seas have to necessarily keep in mind the needs and aspirations of a huge population that is dependant on the coasts.

The rampant development of infrastructure and rapid investment by the state governments funded by International Financial Institutions has fueled land and ocean grabbing and led to the displacement of fishing communities, forcing them to change livelihood patterns. Development of coastal tourism creates a tug of war for the same resources that are an integral part of both the fishing and tourism industry.

While we hear that tourism holds the promise of new jobs, experiences across the country shows that the kind of work that the local communities get are low-paying and menial in nature, such as cleaners, helpers, auto-rickshaw drivers and largely contractual and often seasonal.

The push for tourism in the Blue Economy and way that its promotion has relaxed policies and regulations to favour the industry is alarming! Global experiences of cruise tourism have shown that there is very little benefit derived from cruise tourism to local economies and to the local communities. Experiences of coastal tourism have also not been pleasant experiences for coastal communities, who have had to deal with loss of access to resources and increasing displacement and marginalization.

The rush to develop the ‘blue economy’ risks harming both the marine environment and local economies and livelihoods. We needs bold policies and action to slow this shift towards the maximisation of coastal and riverine resource utilisation. We’re currently preparing a study examines the impact and effects of the growth of tourism under the Blue Economy model of development and documents the experiences of the coastal communities most affected by this form of development.

• India’s Push for Sustainable Tourism

• Team India Blogs

World Tourism Day is celebrated every year to commemorate the foundation of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), a specialised agency of the United Nations which promotes responsible, sustainable, and universally accessible tourism. This year’s theme of World Tourism Day is Tourism and Green Investment, which highlights the need for more and better-targeted investments for People, for the Planet and for Prosperity, to enable tourism to deliver on its massive potential to provide opportunities for people, to build resilient, to accelerate climate action and greater sustainability for the planet and deliver inclusive prosperity around the pillars of innovation and entrepreneurship.

Tourism forms a critical part of India’s economy as it is a key driver of economic growth and job creation. The Ministry of Tourism’s India Tourism Statistics 2022 states that the Travel and Tourism sector created 79.86 Mn jobs, including direct and indirect ones. Moreover, 15.34% of the jobs created in 2019-2020 were in this sector. In terms of GDP, during 2019-2020, the tourism sector’s direct and indirect contribution was 5.19%. India’s ranking in the World Economic Forum’s Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI) is 54th in 2021.

In 2021, over 6.19 Mn foreign tourists travelled to India, fetching us foreign exchange earnings of $8.79 Bn, the 14th highest in the world. It is important to mention that during this period, tourism was among the worst-hit sectors due to the pandemic. It is estimated that India's Tourism Sector will achieve the pre-pandemic level of foreign exchange earnings of $30 Bn and 15 Mn foreign arrivals by mid-2024, totalling a $50 Bn GDP contribution from Tourism.

Further, it is estimated that India’s tourism sector will grow at 7-9% CAGR in the coming decade. By 2030, it will contribute $250 Bn — $56 Bn $ in foreign exchange earnings and 25 Mn foreign arrivals — to GDP, creating 137 million jobs.  

The government is committed to realising the potential of the tourism sector sustainably to ensure that the tourist spots and wildlife-sensitive places are preserved for a long so that future generations also visit them. Toward this end, the government has taken various steps.  

National Strategy for Sustainable Tourism was formulated by the Ministry of Tourism in 2022 to mainstream sustainability in the Indian tourism sector and ensure more resilient, inclusive, carbon-neutral and resource-efficient tourism while safeguarding natural and cultural resources.  The comprehensive strategy document identified seven strategic pillars to make India a global destination for sustainable and responsible tourism: Promoting Environmental Sustainability; Protecting Biodiversity; Promoting Economic Sustainability; Promoting Socio-Cultural Sustainability; Scheme for Certification of Sustainable Tourism; IEC and Capacity Building; and Governance, and emphasised on the synergy between 16 ministries of the union government, state governments, local government institutions, industry, NGOs, local communities. 

National Strategy for Ecotourism was drafted by the Ministry of Tourism in 2022 after considering the Ecotourism guidelines of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the National Strategy for Rural Tourism, and the National Strategy Sustainable Tourism. It was designed to develop an enabling ecosystem for the growth of ecotourism in the country.   The strategy emphasised creating synergies amongst the 8 ministries of the Central government, State Governments, Panchayati Raj Institutions, conservation NGOs and the private sector to develop ecotourism in the country. For the holistic development of the industry, the following pillars were identified: State Assessment and Ranking; State Strategy for Ecotourism; IEC, Capacity Building and Certification; Marketing and Promotion; Destination and Product Development; Public-Private and Community Partnerships; Governance and Institutional Framework.  Among other steps, the strategy also envisaged ranking the States based on the globally recognised parameters of ecotourism. It will foster competitiveness and encourage mutual learning among all states. 

Draft National Tourism Policy 2022 recognises tourism as a global opportunity for India and advocates sustainable and responsible growth of the tourism sector in the country. The main objective of the Policy is to make India a leading destination for sustainable and responsible tourism by minimising the negative impact of tourism on social, environmental, and economic aspects and maximising the positive impact. The Policy will act as a roadmap to achieve a $1 Trillion contribution of the tourism sector to GDP by the year 2047.

Travel for LiFE campaign was launched by the Ministry of Tourism in association with CNA-ST in 2021. The campaign aims to encourage the 300 Mn domestic tourists in India to shift towards responsible behaviour and mindful resource consumption while travelling.

Swadesh Darshan Scheme 2.0 was rolled out with the aim of developing sustainable and responsible tourism destinations in the country. The revamped scheme envisages enhancing the contribution of tourism to the local economies; Creating jobs, including self-employment for local communities; Enhancing the skills of local youth in tourism and hospitality; Increasing private sector investment in tourism and hospitality; and preserving and enhancing the local cultural and natural resources. 

Sustainable Tourism for India Criteria and Indicators (STCI) aims to benchmark sustainable tourism practices for various tourism business enterprises, mainly accommodation units and tour operators, for STCI certification. The guidelines make it mandatory to ensure effective sustainable management, heritage protection, sharing social and economic benefits with the local community, conserving the environment, carrying capacity, and minimising negative impacts.

Policies of States: Various tourism-dependent states like Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Himachal Pradesh have made policies to promote sustainable tourism while protecting rich biodiversity and natural wealth. 

As illustrated above, the tourism sector in India has enormous potential as it is a multi-sectoral activity. The government is ambitiously promoting the industry to enable it to achieve $1 Trillion while ensuring that the pressure of tourists is within the country’s carrying capacity.

• https://www.unwto.org/world-tourism-day
• https://webunwto.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/s3fs-public/2023-03/concept-note-wtd2023-en.pdf?VersionId=El4TZl3a_WXt_K.Ujl2L0wrlQ2ZHE9k0
• https://static.pib.gov.in/WriteReadData/userfiles/IndiaTourismStatistics2022English.pdf
• https://tourism.gov.in/sites/default/files/2023-07/India%20Tourism%20Statistics%20at%20a%20glance%202023%20-%20English%20version_0.pdf
• https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1860974
• https://tourism.gov.in/sites/default/files/2022-05/National%20Strategy%20for%20Sustainable%20tourism_0.pdf
• https://tourism.gov.in/sites/default/files/2022-09/Draft%20National%20Tourism%20Policy%202022%20Final%20July%2012.pdf
• http://sustainable.tourism.gov.in/Travel-for-LiFE-campaign.html
• https://tourism.gov.in/sites/default/files/2023-04/Swadesh%20Darshan%20%20Guideline%20Booklet.pdf
• http://sustainable.tourism.gov.in/images/pdf/Accomodation%20Units_Toolkit_31.03.2023.pdf
• https://tourism.gov.in/sites/default/files/2020-01/Document.pdf

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Sustainability in tourism - Reimagining India’s sustainable tourism evolution

This report highlights the necessity for integrating sustainability across all tourism activities to ensure the sector's resilience and responsibility

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This report on sustainable tourism in India delves into the critical need for integrating sustainability into the heart of the tourism sector. The report provides a comprehensive analysis of sustainable tourism in India, outlining the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on tourism, the recovery trajectory, and the strategic focus on sustainable tourism. It highlights the necessity for integrating sustainability across all tourism activities to ensure the sector's resilience and responsibility. With a projected, significant growth in the sustainable tourism market, the document emphasises embracing sustainable practices, enhancing digital infrastructure, and fostering community-based tourism models. It aims for a balanced approach to development, prioritising economic growth alongside environmental stewardship and social inclusiveness. The report also outlines actionable pathways for stakeholders to adopt sustainable practices, ensuring the long-term viability of tourism in India while preserving its rich cultural and natural heritage for future generations.

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Invest in Tourism, Hospitality & Wellness

About tourism, hospitality & wellness sector.

Revealing India's Serene Allure: Exploring Investment Prospects in Tourism, Hospitality & Wellness Discover a realm of opportunity by investing in India's enchanting Tourism, Hospitality & Wellness sector. Globally ranked 54th in the travel and tourism development index by the World Economic Forum, India thrives as a captivating destination. Elevating the nation's economy, this sector contributes a staggering USD 178 billion to the GDP. India's rich tapestry encompasses 37 World Heritage sites, 10 biogeographic zones, 80 national parks, and 441 sanctuaries, beckoning explorers. The spectrum of niche tourism includes wellness, adventure, medical, eco-tourism, sports like golf and polo, film, rural, religious, and more. Witness a promising future with USD 309.13 million allocated to the Ministry of Tourism in the Union Budget 2022-23. Seamlessly blend investment aspirations with India's Tourism, Hospitality & Wellness realm, igniting growth while embracing serenity.

Tourism, Hospitality & Wellness Snapshot

• 592 Opportunities
• USD 12.19 bn Worth

Mode of Implementation

• 115 To Be Finalized
• 6 Pure Private
• 5 Not Disclosed

Top performing states

Tourism, hospitality & wellness  |  requirement, sub-sectors in tourism, hospitality & wellness, tourism (leisure / adventure / heritage tourism).

201 Opportunities

USD 2.21 bn worth

India receives 3rd highest investment in travel & tourism across countries

Tourism infrastructure - Hotels & Accommodation

140 Opportunities

USD 5.18 bn worth

India’s rank in Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Index of World Economic Forum has moved from 65th rank in 2013 to 34th rank in 2019

MICE/Resorts

74 Opportunities

USD 1.59 bn worth

India is fast becoming the business centre of the world with an exponential growth in MICE

Eco Tourism (Coastal + Eco)

53 Opportunities

USD 878.83 mn worth

A burgeoning sub segment under the tourism sector in India

• National Infrastructure Pipeline
• Stressed Assets

Project ID: 700024

Ecotourism, STP, CETP and TSDF Projects

Usd 772.55 mn.

Project ID: 700013

Reiek Tourist Circuit

Usd 629.39 mn.

Project ID: 607873

Infrastructure Development Investment Program for Tourism

Usd 296.42 mn.

Project ID: 700011

Eco Tourism Resorts on 4 New Sites Development Project

Usd 294.23 mn.

Development of Integrated Eco-Tourism Hub, Tadadi, Uttara Kannada, Karnataka

Karnataka State Industrial & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited has come up with Development of Integrated Eco-Tourism Hub, Tadadi, Uttara Kannada, Karnataka with a ticket size of 100 INR Crores. This project in Eco Tourism [Coastal and Eco] sub-sector involves The current status of the project is DPR/Feasibility Study and is being developed through the PPP route.

Construction of Observatory Towers & Viewing Galleries for New Zuari Bridge, North Goa, Goa

Public Works Department, Government of Goa has come up with Construction of Observatory Towers & Viewing Galleries for New Zuari Bridge, North Goa, Goa with a ticket size of 270.07 INR Crores. This project in Tourism [Leisure / Adventure / Heritage Tourism] sub-sector involves The current status of the project is Tender Publish and is being developed through the PPP route.

Development, Operation and Maintenance of Ropeway, Nature Park [Mohal]-Bijli Mahadeo Temple, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh

National Highways Logistics Management Limited has come up with Development, Operation and Maintenance of Ropeway, Nature Park [Mohal]-Bijli Mahadeo Temple, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh with a ticket size of 233.33 INR Crores. This project in Tourism infrastructure - Ropeways & Cable Cars sub-sector involves The current status of the project is Tender Publish and is being developed through the PPP route.

Project ID: 610319

Development, Operation and Maintenance of Ropeway, Gaurikund-Kedarnath, Uttarakhand

Usd 130.48 mn.

Project ID: 610320

Development, Operation and Maintenance of Ropeway, Govind Ghat-Ghangria-Hemkund Sahib, Chamoli, Uttarakhand

Usd 121.7 mn.

Project ID: 610268

USD 33.96 mn

Project ID: 610322

USD 29.34 mn

Stressed Asset ID: 601867

ALLIANCE RESTAURANT & BARS PRIVATE LIMITED

No claim amount.

Stressed Asset ID: 601864

LEADING HOTELS LIMITED

Stressed Asset ID: 602104

SHAILA CLUBS AND RESORTS PRIVATE LIMITED

Stressed Asset ID: 601985

RMB EVENT MANAGEMENT PRIVATE LIMITED

Top promoters, madhya pradesh tourism board, department of tourism and civil aviation, government of himachal pradesh, punjab infrastructure development board, department of tourism, government of kerala, assam industrial development corporation limited, govt. of west bengal, smart city mission, andaman & nicobar islands integrated development corporation limited.

Chhattisgarh Tourism Board

Tourism corporation of gujarat limited, aizawl smart city limited, goa tourism development corporation limited, diu smart city limited, greater warangal smart city corporation limited, maharashtra tourism development corporation limited, uttarakhand tourism development board, meghalayan age limited, saharanpur smart city limited, keemaya resorts & spas limited liability partnership, urban improvement trust, kota, tripura tourism development corporation ltd, national highways logistics management limited, ayodhya development authority, public works department, government of uttarakhand, satna smart city development limited, nava raipur atal nagar smart city corporation limited, govt. of andhra pradesh, tourism department, public works department, government of jammu & kashmir, varanasi development authority, pimpri chinchwad municipal corporation, north western karnataka road transport corporation, andhra pradesh, dharamshala smart city limited, belagavi smart city limited, dahod smart city development limited, gwalior smart city development corporation limited, indore smart city development limited, karimnagar smart city corporation limited, public works department, government of delhi, rajasthan state road development and construction corporation ltd., coimbatore smart city limited, tiruchirappalli smart city limited, bilaspur smart city limited, bikehoppers autorental private limited, patna smart city limited, thoothukudi smart city limited, faridabad smart city limited, itanagar smart city development corporation limited, shimla smart city limited, ministry of housing & urban affairs, govt. of gujarat, govt. of jharkhand, govt. of mizoram, govt. of sikkim, government of goa.

WOOD PECKER HOLDINGS PRIVATE LIMITED

Transport department, government of kerala, rites limited, aranya paridhi opc private limited, mumbai port authority, wapcos limited, buildings & housing department govt. of sikkim, delhi jal board, new okhla industrial development authority, jammu smart city limited, uttar pradesh rajkiya nirman nigam limited, uttar pradesh pro-poor tourism development project, directorate of tourism, government of uttar pradesh, himachal pradesh tourism development board, greater visakhapatnam municipal corporation, rural development department - leh, lakshadweep public works department-utl, directorate urban administration and development,smart cities - uad, assam tourism development corporation ltd, rajasthan tourism development corporation ltd., public works department, government of arunachal pradesh, town planning and urban local bodies, mathura vrindavan development authority, public works building and nh department, government of assam, india tourism development corporation limited, public works department, government of ladakh, jodhpur development authority, planning and development authority, manipur, karnataka state industrial & infrastructure development corporation limited, srinagar smart city limited, public works department, government of goa, zilla parishad south andaman, public work department, government of tripura, engineering department, chandigarh administration, building construction department, government of bihar, delhi tourism & transportation development corporation limited, bihar state tourism development and corporation, state bamboo development agency, government of assam, nashik municipal corporation, indian port rail & ropeway corporation ltd. [iprcl], india international convention & expo centre, velankani groups, directorate of environment and climate change department, government of manipur, naya raipur development authority, port blair municipal council, public works department, government of dadra and nagar haveli and daman and diu, telangana state tourism development corporation limited, tourism and cultural affairs department, maharashtra, temple trust mata shri chintpurni ji, delhi state industrial & infrastructural development corporation limited, department of tourism, government of goa, amber development & management authority, ministry of environment, forest and climate change ,government of u.p., naimbabu amusement private limited, department of tourism, government of rajasthan, opportunities in 13 sectors added, opportunities in 16 states added, opportunities in 3 schemes added, 57 new opportunities added, opportunities in 12 sectors updated, opportunities in 15 states updated, opportunities in 5 schemes updated, 57 opportunities updated, opportunities in 34 sectors added, opportunities in 34 sectors updated, 447 new promoters added.

Guidelines for Approval of Online Travel Aggregators (OTAs)

The aims and objectives of the scheme for Approval of Online Travel Aggregators (OTAs) are to encourage quality standards and services in this category so as to promote tourism in India and abroad. This is a voluntary scheme open to bonafide online travel aggregators to bring them on a common platform in the organized sector.

Swadesh Darshan scheme

Mission is to develop theme based tourist circuits on the principles of high tourist value, competitiveness and sustainability in an integrated manner by synnergizing efforts to focus on needs and concerns of all stakeholders to enrich tourist experience and enhance employment opportunities.

PRASAD-Pilgrimage Rejuvenation And Spiritual Augmentation Drive

Mission is to identify and develop pilgrimage tourist destinations on the principles of high tourist visits, competitiveness and sustainability in an integrated manner by synnergizing efforts to focus on needs and concerns of all stakeholders to enrich religious/ spiritual tourist experience and enhance employment opportunities

National Tourism Policy

Objective of the policy is positioning tourism as a major engine of economic growth and to harness its direct and multiplier effects for employment and poverty eradication in an environmentally sustainable manner.

National Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana Drive

The Scheme aims to preserve and revitalise soul of the heritage city to reflect the city?s unique character by encouraging aesthetically appealing, accessible, informative & secured environment. The Scheme supports development of core heritage infrastructure projects which shall include revitalization of urban infrastructure for areas around heritage assets identified / approved by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India and State Governments.

Constitution of National Medical & Wellness Tourism Board

To tap the potential and advantages that India has in the field of medical and wellness tourism.

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Hospitality & Tourism Industry in India: Government Schemes to Ease of doing Business

November 03, 2020 Maharashtra Government has reduced the number of license from about 70 to just 10 for the hospitality sector.

1. The number of licenses, NOCs & Applications have been reduced

2. the validity of the license shall be 5 years, 3. export promotion capital goods scheme (epcg), 4. 100% foreign direct investment (fdi) in hotels through automatic route.

• That any ‘duty saved’ amount on all EPCG Authorizations issued during a licensing year for the import of motor cars, sports utility vehicles and all-purpose vehicles shall not exceed 50% of the average foreign exchange earnings from the hotel, travel & tourism as well as the golf tourism sectors during the preceding three licensing years.
• That the vehicles imported must necessarily be so registered that the vehicle is used for tourism purposes only. Further the hotels are also required to submit a copy of the registration certificate to the RA as a confirmation of the import of such vehicles. However, all the parts of such motor cars, sports utility vehicles and all-purpose vehicles like the chassis etc. cannot be imported under the EPCG Scheme, whatsoever.
• The Government of India has now permitted 100% FDI within the hotel industry through the automatic route. The automatic route simply implies that there shall be no requirement of any prior regulatory approval unless it is for any post facto filing or any intimation with the RBI.
• Furthermore, the term hotels shall also include restaurants, beach resorts and other tourist complexes which provide accommodation or any catering and food facilities to tourists in general.
• The tourism-related industry basically includes travel agencies, tour operating agencies as well as tourist transport operating agencies, units which provide facilities for cultural, adventure and wildlife experience to tourists, surface, air and water transport facilities to tourists, leisure, entertainment, amusement, sports as well as health units for tourists and Convention or Seminar units and organisations as well.

5. Export House Status

• The Government of India now provides recognition to all manufacturers, exporters, service providers and all export oriented units that earn a steady level of foreign exchange as Export Houses, Trading Houses, Star Trading House and Super Star Trading Houses and thereby provides them with several benefits and opportunities to support the growth of exports from India.
• This scheme basically provides recognition to all hotels, travel agents and tour operators as an export house or trading house or star trading house or even a superstar trading house at present. Certain other facilities within a Star Export House shall also be eligible for licenses, certificates, permissions and customs clearances for both imports and exports on a self-declaration basis or a fixation of input-output norms on priority within 60 days or through the exemption from compulsory negotiation of documents through banks or even via 100% retention of foreign exchange in EEFC account, enhancement in normal repatriation period from 180 days to 360 days, entitlement for consideration under the Target Plus Scheme and all exemption from furnishing of Bank Guarantees in Schemes under this policy entirely.
• Furthermore, hotels of one-star and above (which also include managed hotels and heritage hotels) that have been approved by the Department of Tourism and other Service providers within the tourism sector that have been registered with the Department of Tourism, shall be entitled to a duty credit equivalent to 5% of the foreign exchange which has been earned by them in the preceding financial year.
• Moreover, all stand-alone restaurants shall now be entitled to a duty credit equivalent to 20% of the foreign exchange earned by them in the preceding financial year. And in the case of one and two-star hotels and stand-alone restaurants, the foreign exchanged earned via International Credit Cards and other such sources as may be notified only shall be taken into account for the purposes of th computation of duty credit entitlement under this policy.

6. Served from India Scheme

• The Government of India has introduced the “Served from India Scheme” with the primary objective of facilitating the exporters of various types of services. The main goal of this scheme is to accelerate the growth in all the export of services in order to create a powerful and unique ‘Served from India’ brand, which is instantly recognized and respected all over the world. This scheme also entitles all the Hotels, Restaurants, Tourism and Transport related Services with a Duty Credit Scrip. The use of a “Duty Credit Scrip” is mainly for the import of all capital goods which includes all the spares, office equipment and professional equipment, office furniture as well as consumables. All these components comprise of their main line of business. In the case of hotels and stand-alone restaurants, the usage of duty credit entitlement is primarily for the import of food items and alcoholic beverages only.
• The hotels of one-star and above (which include all the managed hotels) and heritage hotels duly approved by Department of Tourism and other Service providers within the tourism sector registered with Department of Tourism are entitled to 5% whereas the Stand-alone restaurants are entitled to 10% of foreign exchange earned by them in preceding financial year.

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• Indian govt boosts tourism sector with initiatives, offers: Report

According to a report, the Indian government's continued efforts have helped the tourism sector. For instance, the medical tourism sector in India has grown by more than 350 per cent since 2014 right before the Covid-19 pandemic as a result of the central government's continued attention in this regard. The revenue from this was INR 1.23 lakh crore in 2014 but it climbed to INR 2.10 lakh crore in 2019.

• Updated On Feb 28, 2022 at 02:11 PM IST

Tourism Ministry holds meeting of Tourism Officers in Indian missions on promotion strategies

The meeting, second in the series, was chaired by the Additional Secretary, Rakesh Kumar Verma, and attended by the 20 designated tourism officers in Indian embassies abroad. Besides, representatives of industry confederations like CII, FICCI, and trade associations of the travel and tourism sector attended the virtual meeting.

• Published On Feb 28, 2022 at 02:10 PM IST

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Tourism Sector

Last updated on October 3, 2023 by ClearIAS Team

What is India’s Tourism sector offering? What are its significance and challenges? Are there any government initiatives? To answer these questions, read further.

India as a nation offers diversity within its unity, not only in terms of its tribes, cultures , faiths, and ways of life but also in terms of its tourism potential.

India has a lot to offer in terms of historical monuments, geographical diversity, climate variances, and the wonders of nature.

The tourism sector contributes around 9% of the country’s GDP . It has its share in employment, revenue, and forex reserves.

India’s third-largest source of foreign exchange is the tourism and hotel industry.

India’s tourism industry is a significant economic multiplier and is getting more crucial as the nation aims for rapid economic growth and the creation of employment opportunities.

Table of Contents

Importance of the Tourism Sector

• It recognizes India’s historical and cultural sites, enabling greater protection and preservation.
• Tourism has the potential to be a vehicle for regional development due to the significant amount of money that traveling tourists bring in.
• It brings social equality as it moves areas with an absence of growth-promoting industries toward more inclusive, equitable growth.
• It raises awareness of the region on a global scale and draws attention to its underlying socio-economic issues.
• It pushes the service industry. With the expansion of the tourism industry, there are an increasing number of companies that will be benefitted from the service sector.
• A growing tourism industry is a driving force behind development, necessitating adequate infrastructure. Example: The mobile tourism caravans in Uttarakhand.
• The railroad, aviation , and real estate sectors are also supported.
• Tourism also provides an opportunity for foreign hotel and tourism groups to establish themselves in India. The influx of tourists benefits small companies in tourist areas.
• It creates jobs for tour operators and the hospitality industry.
• It develops a connection with other nations regarding India’s attraction and contributes to India’s soft power.
• It aids in the search for funds on a global scale for the protection and repair of the monuments and the area.
• It enables India to promote its biodiversity and important animals, such as tigers, red pandas, and wild asses.
• It can also aid in drawing attention to Indian wildlife issues on a worldwide scale and aid in the effort to raise money.

Challenges of the Tourism Sector

• Because the tourism industry depends on certain seasons, many regions do not make any revenue for the rest of the year, which slows growth rates.
• Exchange rate volatility might result in a weak rupee and lower-than-expected foreign exchange reserves.
• The lack of acceptance of international credit cards in many locations hurts tourism.
• India is an expensive destination for many tourists due to the high taxes on travel and tourism.
• There aren’t enough skilled professionals, tour operators, or guides who speak English.
• Many places lack the most basic conveniences, such as tourist-friendly restrooms and urinals.
• Landslides and cloudbursts frequently occur in the Himalayas and the North East, claiming the lives of numerous travelers in the past. For example, the 2013 Kedarnath Cloud Burst.
• Wildlife tourism puts more strain on already-vulnerable species and increases the risk of forest fires.
• Indiscriminate garbage dumping and landmark degradation by tourists harm the environment and contaminate water sources.
• Visa requirements, inner line permissions, and other paperwork increase traveler delays.
• Fewer states have a higher concentration of tourists, although numerous attractions in northern India’s interior need more promotion.
• Despite its excellent rankings, India ranks 34th overall for tourist competitiveness, which indicates that the country has not successfully monetized or marketed the industry.

Government Initiatives

Under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme , the Ministry of Tourism assists State Governments in developing the infrastructure for 13 theme-based circuits that have been designated.

A recent budget allocation of Rs. 1,200 crores (US$ 171.70 million) was given for the creation of tourist circuits for eight Northeastern states as part of Swadesh Darshan.

The Swadesh Darshan and PRASHAD schemes are designed to promote expansion in specialized tourism markets such as wildlife, adventure, wellness, and religious travel.

The Swachh Bharat movement has started a significant cleaning campaign to safeguard and maintain the sacredness of national historic monuments.

All India Permit Rules 2021: Under the All India Permit Rules 2021, a tourist vehicle operator may apply online for an All India Tourist Authorization/Permit.

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Dekho Apna Desh: On November 28, 2020, a webinar series entitled “12 Months of Adventure Travel” is projected to market India as an adventure tourism destination.

Way Forward

Building new roads, railroads, and tourist attractions in interior regions that do not have them is necessary. It will lead to infrastructure development in these areas.

Encourage private sector involvement in the construction of tourist amenities in interior and less traveled locations.

To handle concerns and upcoming initiatives related to tourism, the government can establish a National Tourism Authority & Advisory Council.

Tourism with a specific theme should be promoted, including medical tourism, Buddhist circuits, organic tourism, and historical circuits.

It is important to strike a balance between promoting tourism and preserving the natural, social, and cultural environments in the destinations. To address concerns with the water crisis, pollution, waste management , and other related challenges, the government should also promote eco-friendly and sustainable tourism.

Making use of social media to promote Indian tourist destinations online to both domestic and international visitors.

Rationalizing inner line permits and extending visas on arrival and visa regulations to other countries to provide access for foreigners from other nations.

Emphasize underserved areas to tap the vast potential of the region. For example, North Eastern region.

Greater coordination at the state and local levels will help India’s rural tourism industry grow and generate more revenue for the area.

To genuinely guarantee a seamless tourist transportation experience, all interstate road taxes must be standardized.

In India, the industry has enormous unrealized potential. The tourism sector’s multiplier impact can help increase income levels and ensure inclusive growth. To ensure India’s transition to a high-income economy, a booming tourism industry may prove to be crucial. It is necessary to redesign the entire industry and strengthen its resistance to future shocks. Growth must be encouraged, however, sustainable growth that adheres to environmental standards is also vital.

Related Posts

• Riverine-Based Religious Tourism Circuit
• Buddhist Tourism Circuit
• Cultural Tourism in India

Article written by Chetna Yadav.

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Reviving Indian Tourism amid the Covid-19 pandemic: Challenges and workable solutions

This conference communication discusses insights from the roundtable discussion for reviving tourism in the post-pandemic era, conducted by the Centre for Marketing in Emerging Economies at the Indian Institute of Management, Lucknow, India. A varied group of eminent members from government, industry, and academia deliberated on the challenges, possible solutions, and way forward with regard to reviving the tourism sector amidst Covid-19 uncertainties. Major outcomes emerging from a roundtable discussion among experts were textually analysed. A survey was conducted among attendees to assess the degree of willingness to travel and related concerns. A framework was developed with a workable action plan for boosting tourism. Implications for practice and suggestions for future research are provided.

1. Introduction

Covid-19 has severely affected the socio-economic and political landscape of the world. International tourist flows dropped from 30.8 % to 76.3 % in different regions ( Fotiadis, Polyzos, & Huan, 2021 ). Economically advanced countries suffered a considerable plunge in the Gross Domestic Product (GDP): −853bn US$ in Europe, −895.6 in Northeast Asia, −1.5 trillion US$ in Americas, and −1.1 trillion US$ in the Asia Pacific region ( Škare, Soriano, & Porada-Rochoń, 2021 ). The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) (2021) estimated that in 2020 the travel and tourism industry's contribution to GDP declined to 49.1 %, and about 62 million jobs were lost (18.5 % decline) globally. Compared to the worldwide scenario, KPMG reported that the Indian tourism and hospitality sector witnessed massive unemployment of around 38 million, comprising 70 % of the total workforce ( The Hindu, 2020 ). The unemployment rate went as high as 23.5 % in April 2020 and 21.7 % in May, with some improvement in the following months, reaching 9.1 % in December ( Economic Times, 2021 ).

Critics have examined different schools of thought and challenges to sustainable tourism in the wake of Covid-19 ( Arbulú, Razumova, Rey-Maquieira, & Sastre, 2021 ; Higgins-Desbiolles, 2020a ; Im, Kim, & Choeh, 2021 ). A large-scale ban on travel (including even intra-country), closure of borders, cancellations of conferences and events, and strict quarantine protocols to manage the spread of the virus have put much pressure on the tourism and hospitality sectors from managing the cash cycle to attracting customers ( Gössling, Scott, & Hall, 2020 ; Li, Zhang, Liu, Kozak, & Wen, 2020 ). Flexibility and agility in tourism, travel insurance, and funding policies are expected to boost tourism globally ( Uğur & Akbıyık, 2020 ). McKinsey & Company (2020) suggested public–private partnerships, designing new financing options, open and transparent communication, and employing digital and analytical platforms for the purpose.

India has shown tremendous growth in the tourism and hospitality sector in recent years. However, the Federation of Associations in Indian Tourism & Hospitality estimated a loss of around 133.33bn US$ due to the pandemic ( Press Trust of India, 2020 ). An emerging economy with a vastly diverse population and economic zones, India requires skill-development of employees, heightened emphasis on hygiene and optimism towards tourism revival, and better crisis preparedness ( Kaushal & Srivastava, 2020 ). Any change can have significant consequences for stakeholders in the tourism industry (e.g. tourists, local people, tour operators, hotels, the transportation sector, and policymakers). Successful execution of crisis management depends on how stakeholders are affected by the crisis and how they address it ( Sigala, 2020 ). Therefore, there is a need for focused deliberation on the coping and revival mechanisms in the tourism sector by incorporating the views of multiple stakeholders ( Gössling et al., 2020 ). Based on a roundtable discussion, this conference communication presents a multi-pronged approach to address the imminent challenges faced by the tourism industry. The action plan provides a workable solution that addresses various realistic challenges in emerging economies like India. Tourism is one of the most important contributors to the Indian GDP and its revival is directly related to the economic survival of the country. Thus, this paper has significant implications for policymakers and organizations involved in tourism at national and international levels.

2. Tourism in the age of Covid-19

Tourism is a highly experiential and psychological process that has previously been affected by SARS, Ebola, and similar health crises ( Novelli, Burgess, Jones, & Ritchie, 2018 ). Although Covid-19 is not as contagious and fatal as Ebola, people tend to spread the virus well before experiencing the actual symptoms ( Bai et al., 2020 ). Additionally, in several regions with limited testing, the probability of asymptomatic transmission increases, which is a significant concern ( Li et al., 2020 ). To contain the pandemic, large-scale travel bans and safety concerns were put in place, leading to a loss of about US$2.1 trillion in 2020, as reported by WTTC ( Gössling et al., 2020 ). Studies have found that consumers will accept tourism recovery initiatives if governments intervene to control the epidemic quickly ( Fong, Law, & Ye, 2020 ) and if transport policies are revised to address such health hazards ( Zhang, 2020 ). The present article extends the literature on tourism revival by considering the concerns of travel agents, online travel service providers, railways, hotels, and government regarding the tourism sector amidst the Covid-19 situation. It highlights the support systems, schemes, policies, and marketing initiatives needed to regain international and domestic tourism confidence.

3. Overview of roundtable discussion

The roundtable discussion was conducted in association with the Centre for Marketing in Emerging Economies (CMEE) at IIM Lucknow, India. The panelists ( Table 1 ) represented the government and various other industries associated with the Indian tourism industry.

Profile of the panelists.

Simultaneous data collection and analysis with a small sample of domain experts help reveal meanings and ideas underlying a phenomenon ( Glaser & Strauss, 1967 ). Varied experts helped us gain practical insights about the challenges ahead and the support commanded by tourism-related industries (e.g. tour operators, hotels, online travel companies, and media) and the government schemes and policies needed to address them. In addition, academic representation helped to provide valuable insights from the current and previous collective crises (SARS, Ebola, Covid-19) to develop an actionable recovery plan in the present context.

4. Key discussion areas and action plan

The roundtable discussion opened with findings of a PAN India study conducted by CMEE on ‘Understanding public sentiment during lockdown’ in two phases: May 2020 and September 2020. The results indicate that around 79 % of people are anxious and suffer from fear (40 %) and sadness (22 %), mainly due to the adverse economic impact and the risk of becoming infected. The roundtable discussion revealed that acceptability, affordability, accessibility, and awareness of the changing nature of tourism post-Covid-19 are essential to attract travellers ( Sheth & Sisodia, 2012 ). Agencies comprising hotels, airlines, tour operators, and government need to find common ground to rebalance the economic, social, and ecological priorities for sustainable tourism ( Romagosa, 2020 ). Compared to the recovery plan presented by United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) ( Kreiner & Ram, 2020 ) and other researchers ( Galvani, Lew, & Perez, 2020 ), this roundtable discussion highlighted factors unique to emerging markets ( Table 2 ). The findings contribute towards an action plan comprising seven priority areas and which parties are accountable for its implementation to revive Indian tourism amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

• 1) Large-scale focus on safety and hygiene: Hygiene and sanitation were recurrent sub-themes throughout the discussion ( Jauhari, 2010 ). Fewer travellers equate to increased costs, which is not sustainable in the long run. Wearing protective gear on airplanes and trains, passenger screening at airports and stations, monitoring and assistance for viral symptoms, keeping the middle seat vacant on aircraft, and distributing sanitizers and disinfectants will encourage people to travel. Developing countries such as India are subject to overcrowding and congestion, meaning that these severe concerns are often overlooked ( Nath, 2003 ). Additionally, the administration of the Covid-19 vaccine is an important measure to increase people's confidence in tourism. The World Health Organization (WHO) is facilitating collaboration and accelerated efforts among different stakeholders and promoting vital communications regarding vaccines ( WHO, 2021 ). However, people are afraid, and vaccine safety and side effects are prominent factors driving their vaccination decision ( Frontline, 2021 ). Low tourist arrivals in emerging economies during the pandemic can also be attributed to low information transparency and poor healthcare infrastructure ( Gössling et al., 2020 ). Therefore, the government, pharmaceutical companies, and doctors need to stress the efficacy of the vaccine and address people's concerns to make the vaccine drive successful. Several Indian Bollywood actors (e.g. Amitabh Bacchan and Priyanka Chopra) and sports legends (e.g. Sachin Tendulkar) have sought to educate their fans on the benefits of hygiene and safe living to safeguard from this pandemic ( NDTV, 2021 ). They have used social media channels to share the news of their vaccination, implying that influencer marketing could be a key tactic for mass mobilization in other countries.
• 2) Government support for the declining tourism sector (financial and operational): A second important step will be to offer liquidity, policy support, or deferred debt payments to firms in the tourism industry. The panellists highlighted that the working capital of most tourism-related companies has fallen by almost 60 %, and for micro, small and medium-sized firms by almost 80 %. Further, the new standards of cleanliness and hygiene entail higher costs, increasing the financial burden during this time of crisis. The government must incentivize investments in hotel and tourism infrastructure and reduce procedural hassles such as the requirement of a Tax Deduction Account Number; it should also allow cash receipts from foreign tourists on transactions above US$ 2744 ( The Print, 2021 ). Despite the crisis, hotels have continued distributing food to quarantine facilities for incoming passengers and healthcare workers. The government must recognize their contribution by allowing tax deductions for their corporate social responsibility activities because Section 37 of the Companies Act does not consider such costs in computing business income. In the 2021 budget, the Indian government announced that more tourist coaches and trains would be provided, and emphasized public–private partnerships of seaports to help cruise tourism. A total of 4803K US$ has been allotted for vaccination and to improve medical infrastructure, which will also affect medical tourism. Globally, more such initiatives are needed to revive this ailing sector.
• 3) Promoting local handicrafts and artwork: Covid-19 has compelled economies to devise sustainable tourism practices ( Higgins-Desbiolles, 2020a ; Romagosa, 2020 ). This industry can protect and engage vulnerable groups (artisans, local tribes, folk groups) while reducing poverty and inequality. Being vocal for local comprises a new locus to revive tourism ( Brouder et al., 2020 ). Thus, there is a need to redefine tourism with a triple bottom line approach to secure a resilient and sustainable local economy and strengthen environmental hope and positivity ( Ateljevic, 2020 ; Romagosa, 2020 ). The Indian government's mantras of ‘vocal for local’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (making India independent) are innovative ways to promote domestic tourism and inclusive growth while considering local artisans, cultural heritage, and regional cuisines. However, strong partners are needed to promote local handicrafts. The All India Handloom Board and All India Handicrafts Board ended in July 2020 and August 2020, respectively ( Business Today, 2020 ). Other geographies can also launch similar schemes/policies and nurture such institutions as the bridge between artisans and the government to develop a sustainable ecosystem. For example, The Blue Yonder, a Kerala-based travel organization in India, compensates artisans for the time and knowledge (e.g. traditional jewellery, dresses) they share with travellers, which helps save dying art forms and provides an immersive experience to tourists. Additionally, with large cities being the hotspots of Covid-19 contagion, countries could devise and offer short getaways to the countryside. For example, Kabani and Uravu, India-based social enterprises and Non-Governmental Organization (NGOs) have developed an inclusive community-based tourism program in backwaters and rural regions.
• 4) Standard operating procedures: continuous monitoring and auditing: The Ministry of Tourism and the Quality Council of India jointly designed an innovative program in October 2020 entitled SAATHI. This aimed to implement policies and standard operating procedures (SOPs) issued in the light of Covid-19 for the safe operation of hotels, restaurants, and other such establishments. Governments should formulate national standards for tourism and hospitality related businesses, with any slack leading to appropriate penalties ( Wen, Huimin, & Kavanaugh, 2005 ); for example, mandatory temperature checking at the entry and exit of workplaces and institutions could be enforced. Indian Railways has issued a fine for passengers and staff not wearing masks on stations or inside trains. Likewise, various Indian states charge a penalty for violating rules such as wearing masks, maintaining social distancing, and spitting tobacco in public places. Crisis management demands a swift formulation of strategies to overcome the effect of Covid-19 on tourism and a focus on auditing. The online travel service providers in India (e.g. MakeMyTrip) are linked with an audit firm that monitors various SOPs. As the crisis evolves, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, India, revises the SOPs for hotels and hospitality units concerning service delivery and employee management (see: https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/SOPonpreventivemeasuresinHotelsandotherHospitalityUnitstocontainspreadofCOVID19.pdf ). Thus, continuously updating SOPs and auditing/monitoring of different institutions are necessary.
• 5) Evolving tour packages, such as longer stays at one destination, and faith, medical, and ecotourism: The discussion highlighted that the tourism sector should focus on promoting domestic tourism, faith tourism, and ecotourism to ensure sustained demand ( Gössling et al., 2020 ). Socializing tourism involving the public good should be realigned ( Higgins-Desbiolles, 2020b ). The roundtable discussion also highlighted the importance of food tourism ( Ateljevic, 2020 ) and connecting regenerative agriculture with transformative tourism for long-term sustainability. In the 2020–21 budget, the Indian government allotted 171.70 million US$ for ‘Swadesh Darshan’ (campaign to promote domestic Indian tourism) to develop tourist circuits in the northeast region and 29.70 million US$ for Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive (PRASAD) and ‘adopt a Heritage’. Travel integrator companies such as Thomas Cook and SOTC (a leading travel and tourism company) are collaborating with various hospitality brands in India to create innovative workstations, wellness breaks, and affordable luxury holidays. Other geographies can adopt such schemes and collaborative efforts incorporating free transfers, flexible cancellation, minimal booking deposits, easy payment, and overall immersive experiences for customers. The Indian government and private players are proposing innovative religious and cultural packages such as ‘Buddhist circle’, ‘Ramayana Trails’, and ‘Royal Rajasthan tours’. Unfortunately, some religious events, such as Kumbh Mela and Tablighi Jamaat, reported the collapse of official measures, resulting in a massive spike in Covid-19 cases in India ( Mint, 2021b ). Religious leaders and mass influencers came forward to educate people about the grave repercussions and appealed to the public to celebrate festivals by staying indoors and taking all precautions. People have expressed disappointment because of the closing of temples, mosques, and other religious places. As a priority, the tourism sector should focus more on wellness tourism based on ancient Indian philosophies of yoga, Ayurveda, and ecotourism. This will improve tourists' mental and physical well-being, and the authorities can ensure better enforcement of social distancing, safety, and hygiene practices. Interestingly, India is emerging as one of the premier destinations for medical tourism post-Covid-19 ( Financial Express, 2021b ).
• 6) Widespread use of digital media as the tool for communication, consideration and cooperation: Tourism marketers should have a social marketing orientation in their advertisement campaigns. The campaigns should include hashtags such as #staysafe, #safetravel, #hygienefirst, and #mindfulconsumption to convey that the businesses care about consumers' well-being. Since sustainability (people, planet, and profit) is the key strategic focus to revive tourism, educating consumers about mindful consumption (reduce, reuse, and recycle) will encourage a safe and sustainable tourism experience for all ( Sheth, 2021 ). In this regard, managers and policymakers must harness the power of digital technologies at various touchpoints. The Ministry of Tourism in India has started ‘Dekho Apna Desh’ (visit India) webinars and largescale adoption of digital media to enhance awareness of tourist destinations, local art, and cuisines ( Economic Times, 2020a ). New content is being developed for the Incredible India website and mobile application, including tourist-friendly personalized features and stories in collaboration with Google. In addition, 360-degree walk-throughs are being created for prominent World Heritage Sites in India. NITI Aayog (the planning commission in India) has stressed the provision of experiential tourism as the hallmark of the Indian economy in the post-pandemic era, with the widespread use of information technology ( Hindustan Times, 2020 ). Organizations have also started using mobile and digital channels for customer engagement, implying high adoption of artificial intelligence and robotics to develop enhanced tourism experiences in the post-pandemic era ( Zeng, Chen, & Lew, 2020 ). As a benchmark for the hotel industry, some luxury hotels in India, such as ITC, are moving towards keyless rooms, digital menus, and robot services ( Financial Express, 2020 ).
• 7) Motivating employees, agents, and service professionals associated with the tourism industry: Providing financial support to contract staff in the hospitality and tourism industry is necessary as they form the backbone of the sector. Several governments (China and the European Union) have offered a direct cash injection into tourism, including wage support. The Maharashtra state government in India has been inspirational in announcing industry status to the hospitality sector ( The Print, 2021 ) and reducing the number of licenses required to open a restaurant from 70 to 10, moving towards a single clearance policy. Policymakers must devise an extensive training program for upskilling employees and staff to tackle redundancy and retain productive employees in the long run ( Kaushal & Srivastava, 2020 ). Multitasking would be the subsequent norm in the hospitality and tourism sector. In many industries, workers are apprehensive about returning to work for health reasons, posing a considerable problem. Employers need to ensure workplace safety, provide required medical assistance, train employees on crisis management solutions, and extend medical insurance. Several Indian banks, technology firms, and educational institutions have distributed safety kits among employees, including masks, hand sanitizer, a face shield, a document detailing the symptoms of Covid-19, guidelines on wellness and boosting immunity, and details of whom to contact in an emergency. Offices and retail shops are keeping sanitizer at their entrances. Additionally, the central government has called for Covid-19 vaccination at workplaces with 100 eligible beneficiaries from April 11, 2021 ( Firstpost, 2021 ). Several retailers, designers, and entrepreneurs are sharing the details of their craftsmen so that customers can order from them or donate directly to their cause. Employers and managers have realized that if their artisans, tailors, and craftsmen fail, their businesses will also fail ( The Wire, 2020 ).

Recommended Action plan for Revival of Tourism Sector.

The roundtable was attended by more than 250 people. These people were surveyed three months after the roundtable to understand their willingness to travel based on the availability of the vaccine and related concerns. In October 2020, the vaccine was about to be released, and in February 2021, the vaccine had become available in India. Based on the responses, the respondents were classified into four segments with diverse travel preferences (definitely will travel, probably will travel, probably will not travel, and definitely will not travel), each with unique concerns regarding tourism. By referring to the above action plan, necessary structured interventions are proposed for these segments ( Fig. 1 ). Despite the government focus on the tourism sector people are still uncertain about traveling. There is a gap between the implementation of various schemes and customers’ awareness/perception of those schemes. To understand this disparity, interviews were conducted targeting independent consultants, members of the Travel Agents Association, and government representatives to gain deeper insights into the prospective plans and probable efficacy of current policies to revive the tourism industry. Table 2 highlights some of the key government initiatives in line with the proposed framework.

Communication plan to promote tourism based on customer segment.

The Ministry of Tourism has circulated a new tourism policy among the states ( Business Standard, 2021 ) and founded a National Tourism Task Force for the revival of the hospitality and tourism sector that includes state tourism ministers, joint secretary-level officers of the related central ministries, and representatives from various industry associations such as Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India, and The World Travel & Tourism Council, India Initiative (WTTCII), and tourism and hospitality associations ( Economic Times, 2020b ). The Ministry of Tourism launched a 24/7 toll-free tourist information helpline in 12 languages to assist domestic and foreign tourists. The Ministry of Tourism has also extended the recognition/authorization of travel agents, tour operators, and tourist transport operators by six months, and the procedure for obtaining recognition has been simplified. So far, 142,368 citizens have joined the Dekho Apna Desh (boost domestic tourism) pledge, of whom almost 75 % are between 25 and 40 years of age. This can be seen as a resounding success, as many of the destinations are fully booked for the foreseeable future. The government is geared up to support businesses by providing free visas to the first five lakh tourists visiting the country once international travel resumes. An Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS) and loan guarantee scheme have been announced for Covid-19-affected sectors ( Financial Express, 2021a ). States in India are also coming forward with electricity tariff cuts and tax incentives for the tourism sector ( The Hindu, 2021 ). Such facilitation of credit lines and expansion of emergency funds will not only accelerate the revival of the tourism sector but also create new jobs (e.g. acceleration in Ram corridor and Buddhist corridor activities).

However, the independent consultants and private players associated with the tourism sector presented a few concerns. First, there is a dual challenge of regaining the lost market due to Covid-19 and creating better facilities for the future. Therefore, central and state governments need to work together. There should be a promotion of state-wise year-round tourism packages. The Ministry of Civil Aviation's ban on international airspace for scheduled flights should have been lifted long ago as per global norms. UNWTO and IATA have launched a free online tool called ‘Destination Tracker’ in a collaboration to boost international travel. The Ministry of Tourism, with the cooperation of State tourism departments and the tourism industry, could provide regular updates on this Global Tracker for international travellers planning to travel to India, as per current regulations. Second, there is a need for a robust regulatory body to monitor tourism related offerings for international and domestic tourists. For example, in 2015, the government introduced the PRASAD Scheme to promote domestic tourism; however, only about half of the projects have been completed to date ( Business Standard, 2021 ). Third, there is a need to enhance positivity among all of the various stakeholders. The hospitality sector seems to have been neglected as emphasis has been placed on selected players registered under Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) and India tourism, which comprise only 10 % of the trade. The Federation of Associations in Indian Tourism & Hospitality (FAITH) has requested the government to declare travel and hospitality industry members as frontline Covid-19 workers so that they can all be vaccinated at their respective sites ( Hindustan Times, 2021a ). This will give a strong message that India is preparing to receive tourists in a safe and responsible manner. Additionally, FAITH has asked the central and state governments to focus on both the supply side (grants and interest-free loans to ensure working capital; tax reductions; and waivers of statutory obligations for about five years) and demand-side (extension of e-visa waiver) initiatives to revive tourism ( Business Line, 2021 ). In addition, there should be standard guidelines for the hospitality sector to install partitions at tables, provide visible cooking areas, implement digital menus, provide disposable crockery, and enable drive-through food delivery and online ordering. Fourth, emphasis should be placed on co-creating a vacation experience with rural India as a sustainable tourism model. However, this requires time and resources to train villagers and tour guides and to build safe and hygienic mud-houses and small farmlands for a wholesome village experience. In short, for the success of all stakeholders associated with the tourism sector, greater accountability and monitoring of the innovative schemes and sustained collaboration between central and state governments is needed.

5. Concluding remarks and future research directions

This conference communication recommends an action plan to revive the tourism sector in India. However, considering India's socio-economic and infrastructural diversity, this plan may not work as a standard protocol for the entire country. Thus, it should be seen as a blueprint that highlights the broad action items. The specific nature of implementation will vary depending on the extent of the crisis and problems in different regions. Additionally, this framework provides some key learning points for other geographies. For example, the responsible tourism mission in India includes designing environmentally conscious luxury travel options, leveraging indigenous wisdom for wildlife conservation, expanding rural tourism, and lowering carbon emissions through local plant-based cuisine ( The Shooting Star, 2020 ). Countries should promote sustainable tourism by leveraging what different regions are famous for, such as cultural heritage, biodiversity, and spiritual/philosophical wisdom, with the motto of going back to basics. Another significant route is medical tourism, as exemplified through the Indian mission in Myanmar: during Covid-19 special flights were arranged from Myanmar to India as several patients in Myanmar had been waiting for over six months for treatment/surgery ( Hindustan Times, 2021b ). Moreover, hotels should transition to unmanned services and technological interventions.

The Covid-19 pandemic is still not under control and is progressing in many parts of the world with a fourth wave. The roundtable discussion highlights some of the major challenges of the tourism sector and workable solutions for practitioners and policymakers. However, more analysis is needed to understand how the pandemic is likely to transform the tourism industry ( Sigala, 2020 ). Studies should investigate the impact of different types of tourism on consumers’ mental health ( Buckley & Westaway, 2020 ). The recovery of the tourism industry can be facilitated by following the action plan suggested in the roundtable discussion; however, future research should validate the relative impact of these factors on the tourism industry. Scholars are encouraged to undertake systematic longitudinal studies to assess the impact of government policies. Although India has ramped up its Covid-19 vaccination drive, some states are still lagging, with slow adoption of vaccination ( Mint, 2021a ). Researches should assess pandemic containment with reference to the rate of vaccination and other preventive measures in tourist destinations. The full impact of Covid-19 on the billions of people who indirectly depend on tourism and hospitality has yet to be assessed. As a result, policymakers do not fully realize the economic significance of tourism, which calls for systematic research. Studies should seek to design optimal rescue packages for service providers and incentives to travellers to encourage tourism. Insights from research studies can be collated to develop best practices concerning pandemics, tourist confidence, organizational resilience, and structural support to revive tourism.

Author statement

Both Prof. Satyabhusan Dash and Prof. Priyanka Sharma have contributed equally in developing this manuscript.

Acknowledgements

We are grateful to Prof. Archana Shukla, Director, IIM Lucknow, accomplished panellists of plenary session, anonymous independent experts and leading tourism association members for their valuable comments for boosting tourism. We are highly thankful to Mr. Vinod Zutshi, Former Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Govt of India for his valuable inputs to revive Indian tourism. We appreciate Ishan Srivastava, Marketing Assistant, CMEE, for the support in coordinating the roundtable discussion. We are grateful to receive an appreciation letter from the Honourable Union Minister of Tourism in the government of India for bringing key stakeholders together in one platform and working towards a solution-oriented approach. Webinar newsletter is available at: http://iimlcmee.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/CMEE-Newsletter-Tourism-in-the-Covid-19-Pandemic-Era-1.pdf . Finally, we profusely thank the Editor of this journal and the two anonymous reviewers for their valuable comments to help us in making this article more relevant.

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Incentive Travel Is Growing in India as a Performance Booster

Peden Doma Bhutia , Skift

April 12th, 2024 at 11:00 PM EDT

If employees were given a choice between receiving a gift voucher or a "Well done!" from their bosses during an incentive trip, which do you think they'd pick?

Peden Doma Bhutia

Incentive trips are making a comeback, according to FCM Meetings & Events India. The corporate travel firm noted a 30% jump in requests for them in the first quarter from a year earlier.

They’re also known as employee reward programs, and they’re big in India: Top-performing staffers get to go to a new destination, and the companies get a way to foster teams and motivate younger and mid-career employees. It’s business, but still a perk.

Manpreet Bindra, FCM Meetings & Events Leader, Asia, said both employers and employees prefer incentive trips to vouchers or cash-in-kind.

“The Indian business travel market has surpassed pre-pandemic levels and we do expect this segment to continue growing,” Bindra told Skift.

Business Travel Spending in India

The Global Business Travel Association projects that India will experience an 18% growth in business travel spending in 2024 , reaching $38 billion. It also anticipates a full recovery to pre-2019 spending levels by 2025.

India is the ninth-largest market globally for business travel expenditure and the fourth-largest in the Asia Pacific region, representing 5.7% of business travel spending.

The global incentive travel market is expected to reach $217 billion by 2031, according to a report by Allied Market Research.

The rate of growth during this period is expected to be highest in the Asia Pacific.

South African Tourism during its recent roadshow in India spoke about how Indian corporates are one of the largest contributors to incentive travel in the country.

South African Tourism has kickstarted the third edition of its incentive travel initiative – Corporate Think Tank in India.

Nearly half of arrivals to India from South Africa were for meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions. Around a quarter of those MICE arrivals were for incentive trips.

When to Book and Where to Go?

FCM has managed incentive trips for Indian startups to large-scale enterprises in not just popular destinations like Thailand and Indonesia, but also emerging destinations like Vietnam.

“Companies are looking at destinations with both hotel and air seat capacity as well as the ease of visa procedures for incentive travel,” Bindra said. “The most popular destinations in Asia are Bangkok and Pattaya, Singapore, Ho Chi Minh, Kuala Lumpur, and Colombo although Hong Kong and Macau are starting to gain traction again due to the increased air seat capacity as well as tourism marketing initiatives.”

One of the biggest impediments to recovery of business travel has been a lack of airline capacity and competition, FCM Consulting had noted in its November trend report.

Bindra also highlighted the advantage of a larger booking window. “If companies can confirm their group movements before 6 months of travel, they stand to save more than 20% in airfare,” he said.

FCM also advises its clients to book group movements 9 months prior as then fares for full-cost carriers would be about the same as low-cost carriers, Bindra noted.

The global average ticket price of flights booked for business travel have been witnessing a significant increase post Covid.

FCM noted in February that the Mumbai to London economy fare saw a 25% hike , while business class fares on the route went up by 13%.

Have a confidential tip for Skift? Get in touch

Tags: asia monthly , business travel , business travel habits , corporate travel , economic development , fcm , incentive travel , india outbound , mice , south africa

Photo credit: Incentive trips in the first quarter of 2024 went up for Indian companies. Getty Images

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Government Schemes For Women Entrepreneurs In India

by Mahindra Finance

April 16, 2024

4 mins read

Women entrepreneurs in India are breaking barriers and making significant strides in the business world. The progress made by women in various fields has led to increased support and encouragement for those who wish to establish themselves as successful businesswomen. To facilitate this growth, the Indian government has launched several schemes specifically designed to empower women entrepreneurs.

If you are a woman looking to establish your own business, these government schemes for startups can provide you with the financial support and resources needed to succeed.

Government Schemes for Women Entrepreneurs

Annapurna Scheme:

The Annapurna Scheme is specifically designed for women in the food catering industry who are still establishing small-scale businesses. This scheme provides government loans for women up to Rs. 50,000 for capital requirements such as equipment purchases or setting up food trucks. By availing of this government scheme for entrepreneurs, women entrepreneurs can kickstart their businesses with better capital and new products.

Mudra Yojana Scheme:

The Mudra Yojana Scheme, initiated by the Government of India, aims to improve the status of women in the country by providing business loans and supporting their financial independence. Under this scheme, there are three categories: Shishu, Kishor, and Tarun. The loan limits range from Rs. 50,000 for start-ups and new businesses (Shishu) to Rs. 10 Lakhs for established enterprises (Tarun).

Orient Mahila Vikas Yojana Scheme:

The Orient Mahila Vikas Yojana Scheme is designed for women who hold 51% share capital separately or collectively as a proprietary concern. This scheme offers loans without collateral security and provides a concession on interest rates up to 2%. With a flexible repayment period of up to 7 years, women entrepreneurs can easily expand their businesses. The loan limit under this scheme is Rs. 25 lakhs.

Dena Shakti Scheme:

The Dena Shakti Scheme focuses on women entrepreneurs in the fields of agriculture, retail, manufacturing, small enterprises, and micro-credit organizations. It provides loans based on sector-specific ceiling limits set by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). The loan limit under this scheme is Rs. 20 lakhs.

Pradhan Mantri Rozgar Yojana:

The Pradhan Mantri Rozgar Yojana (PMRY) is a scheme to create skill-based self-employment opportunities for women entrepreneurs in urban and rural areas. The scheme offers loan subsidies of up to 15% of the project cost with an upper ceiling of Rs. 12,500 per borrower.

Tips for Making the Most of Government Schemes for Startups

• Research eligibility criteria: Before applying for any government scheme, thoroughly understand the eligibility criteria including age restrictions, business sectors, and income limits. Ensure your business aligns with the scheme's requirements.
• Proper documentation: Complete all necessary documentation accurately and provide all required financial and business details. Incomplete or incorrect documentation may delay or reject your loan application.
• Seek professional guidance: If you are new to the entrepreneurial journey, consider seeking guidance from professionals or organizations specialising in assisting women entrepreneurs. They can provide valuable insights mentorship, and help navigate the loan application process.

By following these tips and leveraging government schemes for women entrepreneurs, you can overcome financial barriers and realise your entrepreneurial dreams.

Government schemes for women entrepreneurs in India offer a range of benefits and opportunities for aspiring businesswomen. These government schemes for startups provide financial support, lower business interest rates , collateral-free government loans for women, and flexible repayment options designed to empower women-owned businesses.

Explore these government schemes, understand their benefits, and take advantage of the opportunities they provide to make your mark as a successful woman entrepreneur in India! If you're looking for hassle-free financing solutions tailored to women entrepreneurs' needs, consider exploring Mahindra Finance's options.

Q: What is the business loan interest rate for women?

The interest rates for business loans for women can vary depending on the scheme and lender. Government schemes for startups often offer lower interest rates compared to private lenders. Researching and comparing different loan options is advisable to find the most competitive interest rate.

Q: Are government schemes only available for startups?

No, government schemes for startups cater to a wide range of businesses at different stages of growth. Whether starting a new business or looking to expand an existing one, government schemes are available to support your entrepreneurial journey.

Q: What are the different types of business loans available for women entrepreneurs?

Various types of business loans are available for women entrepreneurs, including term loans, working capital loans, equipment financing, and trade finance. Each type serves different business purposes and can be tailored to specific needs.

Q: Are there any government loans exclusively for women?

Yes, government loan schemes are exclusively designed for women entrepreneurs in India. These schemes provide financial support and resources tailored to empower women in their entrepreneurial endeavours.

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Do Airlines Offer Student Discounts Or Perks?

• Ryanair partners with ESN to offer 10% discounts on one-way flights and free checked baggage for certain students.
• Singapore Airlines provides 10% discounts, free baggage, and up to 40 kg allowance for student travelers.
• Air India increases US flights for Indian students and offers a 50% discount for students flying within India, making air travel more accessible.

University students generally find a lot more time to travel than working people. However, with less money and limited resources, air travel can be a bit of a challenge. Some airlines with a global reach provide student discounts on airfare, particularly those facilitating student-abroad programs. A typical 10-20% break on the hefty airfare can be a significant plus for university students.

This article explores some examples of airlines that provide student discounts on airfares and an additional perk or two for them.

Ryanair's Erasmus partnership

The Erasmus Programme has made study abroad possible for EU students since 1987. I am among the millions of students lucky to have used the scheme. Erasmus allows students to study at a foreign university while receiving financial assistance through a grant to cover certain living costs.

Being a low-cost carrier with an extensive European network, Ryanair is vital in transporting participating students across the continent. As such, the Irish budget airline partnered with the Erasmus Student Network (ESN) in 2017. In 2022, Simple Flying reported that 600,000 students had used the low-cost giant's Erasmus partnership thus far.

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The ESN states that:

" The Erasmus Generation is a generation of Europeans that are perennially curious, open-minded and full of wanderlust. This is made possible not only through the success of the European project and initiatives such as Schengen and Erasmus+, but also thanks to companies like Ryanair, without which it would be much harder to travel around Europe ."

The partnership allows participating students to receive a 10% discount on up to four one-way flights during their year abroad. This can alternatively be applied to two round trips. Furthermore, they can check for a 20kg bag free of charge. These perks are only valid between September and June of the academic year in question, despite countries like Germany's terms running until July.

The airline industry is always full of new developments! What aviation news will you check out next?

Singapore Airlines

Full-service carriers like Singapore Airlines also offer certain perks to student travelers. These are available to members of its KrisFlyer loyalty program who have verified their student status at an eligible university. Like Ryanair, Singapore Airlines also offers free baggage to students. Participating passengers get a generous free allowance of 40 kg or three bags if traveling to the US.

Singapore Airlines Earns Record 9-Month Revenue & Profit

Singapore Airlines' student offer also sees travelers receive a 10% discount. This is valid for a stay abroad up to 12 months long. The discount applies to Lite, Value, or Standard economy fares and tickets in premium economy.

Air India is another carrier that considers the needs of students at an operational level. For example, last summer, it boosted its US schedule in preparation for a high volume of Indian students flying back to North American university cities. The carrier provided a 50% discount for those studying within India, giving them cheaper flights between their hometown and place of study.

The best discount of all?

Ryanair, Singapore Airlines, and Air India are three examples of airlines making air travel more affordable for students. However, there are some instances in which students have been offered flights that are not just discounted but completely free!

Ultra-low-cost operator Frontier Airlines implemented such an offer for students at one point. Admittedly, these were only available for a limited period (March-May 2020), but it was still an admirable gesture from the all-Airbus carrier.

Frontier put the deal into action at a critical student travel time, encompassing Easter and spring break. The carrier made the offer available on routes to nearly 100 destinations, helping students all over the country to travel home for free. It will be interesting to see if such a move is ever repeated.

Have you ever taken advantage of these offers? Perhaps you've flown with other carriers that have similar schemes in place for students? Let us know your thoughts and experiences in the comments.

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