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National Tourism Day 2025, History, Tourism Sector in India

PWOnlyIAS January 09, 2025 06:46 287 0

National Tourism Day is celebrated on January 25th to highlight India's tourism potential. It’s a reminder of how the National Tourism Day boosts tourism awareness and showcases India’s rich heritage.

National Tourism Day 2025, History, Tourism Sector in India

National Tourism Day 2025 is an annual celebration in India that aims every year to promote the diverse and vibrant tourism sector of India. National Tourism Day is observed every year on January 25th, it acts as a reminder of the importance of tourism in shaping India’s economy, cultural exchange, and global reputation. This informative guide details the significance of National Tourism Day, its history, and the current state of the tourism sector in India.

National Tourism Day 2025

Every year, January 25th commemorates National Tourism Day, this specific date dedicated to raising awareness about the vital role tourism plays in India’s economy and cultural preservation. This day brings together citizens, government bodies, and the public to celebrate the achievements of the tourism industry while planning for its future.

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National Tourism Day 2025
Section Details
Event Name National Tourism Day 2025
Date of Observance January 25, 2025
Theme The theme for National Tourism Day 2025 is yet to be announced.
Objective
  • Promote tourism as a key contributor to the economy
  • Highlight the role of tourism in sustainable development
  • Encourage domestic and international tourism
Significance
  • Celebrates India’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
  • Increases awareness about the importance of tourism in economic growth.
  • Supports the development of local communities through tourism.
Key Activities
  • Tourism promotions and campaigns.
  • Cultural programs and performances showcasing India’s diversity.
  • Webinars, exhibitions, and discussions on sustainable tourism.
  • Participation by local tourism boards and stakeholders.
Government Initiatives
  • Promotion of tourism circuits (e.g., heritage, spiritual, adventure, and eco-tourism).
  • Highlighting tourism-friendly policies and incentives.
  • Launch of tourism campaigns by the Ministry of Tourism.
Impact on Local Economy
  • Boosts local businesses such as hospitality, transport, and handicrafts.
  • Creates job opportunities in rural and urban areas.
  • Contributes to regional development.
Government Ministry Involved Ministry of Tourism, Government of India
Global Recognition
  • The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) also celebrates World Tourism Day on September 27 each year, aligning with global tourism trends.

National Tourism Day History

The origins of National Tourism Day are traced back to post-independence India in 1948. Recognizing tourism’s potential for economic growth and cultural diplomacy, the Ministry of Tourism initiated efforts to promote the industry. Over the decades, campaigns like “Incredible India” and events like this day have been instrumental in showcasing India’s beauty and heritage globally.

In the 1950s and 60s, the tourism sector saw increased focus, with policies aimed at infrastructure development and international marketing. National Tourism Day has since evolved into a platform for broadcasting new initiatives, discussing policy improvements, and celebrating the achievements of the sector.

National Tourism Day 2025 Theme

The theme for National Tourism Day 2025 has not been announced yet. However, it is expected to highlight the key challenges and opportunities in the tourism sector, focusing on aspects such as sustainable tourism, digital transformation, and the promotion of India’s diverse cultural heritage.

Why is National Tourism Day Celebrated?

The primary purpose of celebrating National Tourism Day is to:

  1. Promote India as a Global Tourist Destination: Highlight the country’s cultural, historical, and natural treasures.
  2. Boost Economic Growth: Emphasize tourism’s contribution to the GDP and employment.
  3. Encourage Sustainable Tourism: Support environmentally friendly practices in travel and hospitality.
  4. Foster Cultural Exchange: Create opportunities for understanding and appreciating India’s diversity.
  5. Preserve Heritage: Support initiatives for conserving historical and cultural landmarks.

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Tourism Sector in India

India’s tourism industry is one of the most significant contributors to the nation’s economy, which offers vast opportunities for growth. According to recent reports currently, India is the fifth-largest travel and tourism market globally and on the other hand, the tourism sector in India is poised to become the third-largest domestic travel market by 2027.

Key Highlights

Tourism statistics of India (August 2024)

  • Foreign Tourist Arrivals: 6.36 Lakh
  • Foreign Exchange Earnings: 20,006 Crore
  • Indian Nationals’ Departures: 27.01 Lakh 

Key Statistics of Indian Tourism as of August 2024
Key Aspect August 2024 January–August 2024
Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) 6.36 lakh (-4.2% from Aug 2023, -20.5% from Aug 2019) 61.91 lakh (+3.7% from Jan–Aug 2023, -10.5% from Jan–Aug 2019)
Top Source Countries for FTAs Bangladesh (15.59%), USA (14.95%), UK (10.33%) Bangladesh (20.77%), USA (17.41%), UK (10.08%)
Foreign Exchange Earnings (FEEs) ₹20,006 crore (+7.06% from Aug 2023) ₹1,71,287 crore (+15.64% from Jan–Aug 2023)
FEEs (in USD) $2.385 billion (+5.69% from Aug 2023) $20.555 billion (+14.15% from Jan–Aug 2023)
Indian Nationals Departures (INDs) 27.01 lakh (+6.55% from Aug 2023, +14.86% from Aug 2019) 200.63 lakh (+9.41% from Jan–Aug 2023, +12.01% from Jan–Aug 2019)
Top Destinations for INDs UAE (26.3%), Saudi Arabia (11.99%), USA (7.96%) UAE (24.45%), Saudi Arabia (10.88%), USA (7.58%)
Purpose of FTAs Leisure & Recreation (44.77%), Indian Diaspora (26.73%) Leisure & Recreation (41.72%), Indian Diaspora (27.67%)
Purpose of INDs Leisure & Recreation (42.1%), Indian Diaspora (35.1%) Leisure & Recreation (45.0%), Indian Diaspora (33.0%)

Top 5 States for Tourism in India
S.No State Key Highlights
1 Tamil Nadu Among the top states with significant tourist footfall.
2 Uttar Pradesh Renowned for cultural and heritage tourism.
3 Andhra Pradesh Popular for its religious and coastal attractions.
4 Karnataka Known for historical, wildlife, and natural sites.
5 Maharashtra A combination of urban tourism and cultural heritage.

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Types of Tourism in India

India’s diverse geography and rich cultural heritage make it a hub for various forms of tourism:

  • Cultural Tourism: Exploring heritage sites like Rajasthan’s forts and Tamil Nadu’s temples.
  • Eco-Tourism: Visiting natural reserves such as Jim Corbett National Park.
  • Adventure Tourism: Trekking in the Himalayas or river rafting in Rishikesh.
  • Medical Tourism: Accessing affordable healthcare services in cities like Chennai.
  • Spiritual Tourism: Seeking enlightenment in Varanasi or Amritsar’s Golden Temple.
  • Culinary Tourism: Enjoying regional delicacies, from Delhi’s street food to Hyderabad’s biryani.

Role of the Tourism Sector in the Indian Economy

Tourism is a key driver of growth and one of the significant pillars of the Indian economy, contributing significantly to GDP, employment, and foreign exchange.

  1. Economic Contribution: The sector is projected to contribute around ₹21.15 trillion ($253 billion) to GDP in 2024.
  2. Employment: Tourism supports over 43 million jobs, representing nearly 8% of India’s total workforce.
  3. Infrastructure Development: Investment in tourism has spurred advancements in transport, sanitation, and accommodation, especially in remote regions.
  4. Cultural Preservation: Tourism aids in maintaining and restoring historical sites, while also promoting traditional arts and crafts.

Government Initiatives for Tourism in India

The Government of India, through the Ministry of Tourism, has implemented several initiatives over the years to enhance and promote the tourism sector. These efforts have been aimed at developing infrastructure, improving services, and attracting both domestic and international tourists. Some of the key initiatives include:

  1. Swadesh Darshan Scheme and Swadesh Darshan 2.0
    The government has developed tourism infrastructure through projects under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme, the National Mission on Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD), and the Assistance to Central Agencies for Tourism Infrastructure Development Schemes. The Swadesh Darshan Scheme has been revamped into Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD2.0) with a focus on creating sustainable and responsible tourism destinations.
  2. Dekho Apna Desh Initiative
    This initiative encourages Indian citizens to explore their own country, promoting domestic tourism and fostering a sense of pride in India’s diverse heritage.
  3. Financial Assistance for Fairs and Festivals
    The Ministry has provided financial assistance to State Governments and Union Territories under the Domestic Promotion & Publicity including Hospitality (DPPH) Scheme for organizing tourism-related events, fairs, and festivals.
  4. Promotion of Niche Tourism
    The government has been actively promoting various forms of thematic tourism, such as wellness tourism, culinary tourism, rural tourism, and eco-tourism, to diversify and expand the scope of the tourism sector.
  5. e-Visa Facility
    To simplify travel for foreign tourists, India offers e-Visa facilities for seven sub-categories, including e-Tourist Visas, e-Business Visas, e-Medical Visa, and others, for nationals of 167 countries. Additionally, the e-visa process has been further liberalized, and visa fees have been significantly reduced.
  6. GST Reduction on Hotel Tariffs
    The government has reduced the GST on hotel rooms with tariffs between ₹1,001 to ₹7,500 per night to 12%, and those above ₹7,501 to 18%. This move aims to make India more competitive as a tourism destination.
  7. Improved Air Connectivity through the RCS-UDAN Scheme
    The Ministry of Tourism has partnered with the Ministry of Civil Aviation under the RCS-UDAN Scheme, which has led to the operationalization of 53 tourism routes, improving air connectivity to key tourist destinations across the country.
  8. Incredible India Tourist Facilitator Certification Program
    The Incredible India Tourist Facilitator (IITF) Certification Program is an online learning platform designed to train tourist guides and facilitators, creating a skilled workforce in the tourism industry and generating local employment opportunities.
  9. Capacity Building for Service Providers
    Through the Capacity Building for Service Providers (CBSP) Scheme, the government has been training service providers to upgrade their skills and improve service standards in the tourism and hospitality sector.
  10. National Integrated Database of Hospitality Industry (NIDHI)
    The NIDHI initiative facilitates digitalization and promotes ease of doing business for the hospitality and tourism sectors. It has been upgraded to NIDHI+, which includes accommodation units, travel agents, tour operators, food and beverage units, and more.

Challenges and Future of the Tourism Sector in India

National Tourism Day acts as a reminder of the immense potential of the tourism sector in India. Despite its growing importance to the national economy, the sector faces several challenges that hinder its full development. However, with focused efforts and innovations, the future of tourism in India looks promising.

  • Infrastructure Development: There is a need for improved tourism-related infrastructure, including transportation, accommodation, and public amenities, to fulfill the growing tourism demand.
  • Sustainability: Balancing tourism growth with environmental sustainability remains a challenge, particularly in fragile ecosystems and heritage sites.
  • Safety and Security: Ensuring the safety of tourists, including addressing issues like crime, health risks, and natural disasters, is crucial for building trust.
  • Seasonal Tourism: Overcoming the problem of seasonality, where certain destinations face overcrowding during peak times and underutilization during off-seasons.
  • Promoting Niche Tourism: Expanding niche tourism sectors like wellness, eco, and adventure tourism to diversify offerings and attract a broader range of tourists.
  • Skilled Workforce: Addressing the shortage of skilled labour and trained professionals, including tour guides and hospitality staff, to improve service quality.
  • Digital Transformation: Leveraging technology for better service delivery, including digital bookings, virtual tours, and e-visa facilities, to streamline the tourist experience.
  • Government Policies: Continued focus on effective government initiatives like the Dekho Apna Desh campaign and Swadesh Darshan 2.0 to promote domestic tourism and improve infrastructure.

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Conclusion

National Tourism Day serves as a reminder of the importance of tourism in India’s economy, culture, and heritage. By celebrating this day, we acknowledge the positive impact of tourism on creating jobs, promoting cultural exchange, and boosting economic growth. As we look toward National Tourism Day 2025, it is important to continue supporting initiatives that enhance the tourism sector, celebrate India’s rich cultural diversity, and promote sustainable travel practices for future generations.

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National Tourism Day FAQs

National Tourism Day is celebrated annually on January 25th to promote tourism and its contributions to the economy.

National Tourism Day is observed to raise awareness about the importance of tourism in India and to promote its cultural, economic, and social benefits.

National Tourism Day was introduced to highlight India’s diverse tourism potential and to encourage people to explore the country’s rich heritage and landscapes.

The tourism sector in India significantly contributes to employment, foreign exchange, and the overall growth of the national economy, boosting sectors like hospitality and transportation.

The government has launched initiatives like Dekho Apna Desh, Swadesh Darshan, and e-Visa facilities to promote domestic tourism and improve infrastructure across India.

The tourism sector in the Indian economy not only creates jobs but also contributes to the development of rural areas, enhances cultural exchange, and drives economic growth.
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