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News18
3 hours ago
- Business
- News18
How India Became World's 8th Biggest Tourism Economy Under PM Modi
Last Updated: The WTTC projects that by 2034, India's tourism economy could reach $400 billion, representing over 7.2 per cent of GDP and employing over 64 million individuals. India's rise to become the world's 8th largest tourism economy by 2025, surpassing Japan and France, is a notable achievement from its 10th place in 2024. This milestone, as reported by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), is attributed to strategic government policies, infrastructure development, cultural richness, and a strong post-pandemic recovery, both domestically and internationally, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. The prospect of India becoming the 4th largest tourism economy by 2034 appears highly feasible. In 2023, tourism contributed $199.6 billion to India's economy, supporting 32.1 million jobs. The WTTC projects that by 2034, India's tourism economy could reach $400 billion, representing over 7.2 per cent of GDP and employing over 64 million individuals. With 43 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a vast coastline, Himalayan peaks, and a rich tapestry of Sanatani traditions, India offers a diverse blend of spiritual, cultural, adventure, and wellness tourism. The Modi government's ambitious goal is to have tourism contribute over 10 per cent to the national GDP by 2047. Since 2014, a series of policy reforms and initiatives have transformed the tourism landscape, addressing persistent challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, limited global promotion, and bureaucratic hurdles. Swadesh Darshan, launched in 2014–15, aimed to develop thematic tourism circuits like the Buddhist Circuit, Ramayana Circuit, and Wildlife Circuit to promote niche tourism. Although the initial phase faced challenges, the launch of Swadesh Darshan 2.0 in 2022 with a more focused approach has yielded remarkable results. Pilot projects in destinations like Orchha (Madhya Pradesh), Gandikota (Andhra Pradesh), and Bodh Gaya (Bihar) have enhanced local infrastructure while preserving environmental and cultural heritage, making lesser-known destinations more accessible and boosting both domestic and international tourism. The Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive (PRASAD) scheme has played a vital role in enhancing religious tourism. With 73 projects sanctioned by 2024, involving an investment of Rs 1400 crore, the scheme has revitalised sacred sites like the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor in Varanasi, Kedarnath, and Ayodhya. These projects have not only improved infrastructure but also created thousands of jobs and boosted local economies. For example, the redevelopment of Ayodhya, especially after the consecration of the Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir, has led to unprecedented footfalls, significantly contributing to tourism revenue. The UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme, launched to enhance regional air connectivity, has opened 88 new airports since 2014, making remote tier-2 and tier-3 cities more accessible to tourists. The total length of national highways increased from 91,000 km in 2014 to 1.46 lakh km by 2025, while railway electrification reached 98%. The introduction of Vande Bharat and Amrit Bharat trains has further improved domestic travel by offering faster and more comfortable options. The Union Budget allocated Rs 2541.06 crore to boost the tourism sector, focusing on infrastructure, skill development, and travel facilitation. Initiatives like developing 50 top tourist destinations, offering MUDRA loans for homestays, and introducing e-visa facilities have streamlined tourist experiences. The Modi government supports sustainable tourism through Swadesh Darshan 2.0 and promotes medical tourism under the 'Heal in India" campaign, positioning India as a global healthcare destination. India's adoption of digital tools for tourism planning, booking, and experiences has made it the most digitally advanced traveler nation, according to the World Economic Forum (WEF). The introduction of e-visas and visas on arrival has simplified entry for international tourists, contributing to a 43.5 per cent growth in foreign tourist arrivals in 2023. These reforms have enhanced India's competitiveness, evidenced by its rise to 39th in the Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI) in 2024, up from 54th in 2021. Infrastructure has been a critical enabler of India's tourism boom. The Modi government's focus on improving connectivity and hospitality infrastructure has addressed long-standing barriers to tourism. The expansion of air, rail, and road networks has been pivotal. The UDAN scheme has connected smaller towns and remote regions, making destinations like Gopalpur (Odisha) and Coorg (Karnataka) more accessible. The doubling of Indian port capacity and the development of cruise terminals, supported by a $27.7 million investment, have tapped into the growing potential of cruise tourism. India's tourism sector has embraced digital innovation, with mobile apps, virtual tours, and online booking platforms enhancing the tourist experience. The Ministry of Tourism's initiatives, such as the 'Destination Based Skill Development" program, have trained 12,187 candidates at 145 destinations, ensuring that local communities are equipped to leverage digital tools for tourism promotion. India's cultural and natural diversity are key drivers of its tourism appeal. The country's 43 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Taj Mahal, Hampi, and the Ajanta-Ellora Caves, attract millions of visitors annually. India ranks sixth globally for cultural landmarks, with its spiritual heritage, wellness traditions, and adventure tourism offerings drawing both domestic and international tourists. Religious tourism has been a major contributor to India's tourism economy. Sites like the Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir in Ayodhya, Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi, and Mahakal Temple in Ujjain have seen record footfalls, thanks to PM Modi's foresight. India has emerged as the 5th largest global travel healthcare destination, with a market size of $9 billion in 2019. The 'Heal in India" campaign promotes medical tourism, leveraging India's cost-effective healthcare and traditional wellness practices like Ayurveda and Yoga. The sector is expected to grow at a CAGR of 21.1 per cent from 2020 to 2027, attracting foreign patients for treatments ranging from cardiac surgery to holistic therapies. The Modi government's vision to position India as a global adventure tourism hub is supported by initiatives like the development of trekking routes and eco-tourism circuits. Rural tourism, promoted through the National Strategy and Roadmap for Rural Tourism, provides employment opportunities in villages and allows tourists to experience India's authentic cultural heritage. The tourism sector's economic impact extends beyond direct GDP contributions. In 2024, domestic tourism spending reached Rs 15.5 lakh crore, a 22% increase from 2019, while international tourist spending grew by 9 per cent to Rs 3.1 lakh crore. The sector supported 43 million jobs in 2023, with projections of 2.45 million additional jobs in 2024, equivalent to one in 11 jobs in India. By 2029, the sector is expected to generate 53 million jobs, making it a critical driver of employment, particularly for youth, women, and rural communities. Tourism also has positive spillover effects on related sectors like hospitality, transportation, retail, and handicrafts. For instance, the rise in tourism in cities like Jaipur has boosted demand for local crafts, while coastal tourism in Goa has spurred real estate and transportation services. Foreign exchange earnings from tourism reached Rs 2.31 lakh crore in 2023, reinforcing its role as India's third-largest foreign exchange earner. The COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted global tourism, but India's recovery has been remarkable, driven largely by domestic tourism. In 2023, domestic visitor spending reached Rs 14.64 lakh crore, 15% above 2019 levels. The resilience of domestic tourism, fuelled by India's growing middle class and increasing disposable income, has been a key factor in the sector's rebound. The Modi government's campaigns like ' Dekho Apna Desh" have encouraged Indians to explore domestic destinations, reducing reliance on international arrivals. The rapid vaccination campaign during the pandemic also played a crucial role in restoring traveller confidence. By 2024, India's tourism sector had surpassed pre-pandemic levels, contributing Rs 21.15 lakh crore to GDP, a 21 per cent increase from 2019. Additionally, the Modi government's emphasis on digital tourism and specialized training in hospitality and heritage conservation presents opportunities to upskill the workforce and improve tourist experiences. India's ambition to build a $3 trillion tourism economy by 2047 is ambitious but achievable, given its current trajectory. The WTTC predicts that by 2034, India will become the 4th largest tourism economy globally, contributing Rs 43.25 lakh crore to GDP and employing over 63 million people. The Modi government's focus on sustainable tourism, digital integration, and niche segments like medical, adventure, and rural tourism will be critical to achieving this goal. Strategic investments in infrastructure, such as new roads, airports, and digital platforms, will continue to enhance accessibility. The promotion of cultural festivals, heritage conservation, and targeted marketing campaigns will elevate India's global appeal. By balancing economic growth with environmental and cultural preservation, India can position itself as a leading global tourism destination. top videos View all India's rise to the 8th largest tourism economy globally in 2025 with a contribution of $231.6 billion, is a testament to PM Modi's strategic vision, our cultural richness, and our Sanatani resilience. The Modi government's initiatives like Swadesh Darshan, PRASAD, and UDAN, coupled with infrastructure development and digital innovation, have transformed the tourism landscape. The sector's economic contributions, job creation, and cultural promotion underpin its role as a driver of inclusive growth. As India aims for a $3 trillion tourism economy by 2047, it is poised to embrace growth with spiritual tourism and development with cultural renaissance, without compromising on any single aspect. ' Vikas bhi aur Aastha bhi" has been the clarion call of PM Modi, and India is just getting started. The world is our oyster. Sanju Verma is an Economist, National Spokesperson for BJP, and Bestselling Author of 'The Modi Gambit'. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18's views. tags : Indian tourism pm narendra modi Udan Scheme view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: July 24, 2025, 17:41 IST News opinion Opinion | How India Became World's 8th Biggest Tourism Economy Under PM Modi Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Al-Ahram Weekly
4 hours ago
- Business
- Al-Ahram Weekly
Tourist numbers up - Egypt - Al-Ahram Weekly
Egypt ranked 10th in the world for increasing tourist arrivals during the first three months of this year. In a strong start to the year, Egypt's tourism sector has recorded impressive growth, earning the country a place among the top 20 global performers for the first quarter of 2025. The achievement comes as a result of targeted marketing campaigns, the expansion of airline connections and the aviation incentive programme, improved infrastructure, and enhanced visitor experiences across cultural and coastal destinations, according to tourism experts. According to the May 2025 World Tourism Barometer issued by UN Tourism, Egypt ranked 10th among the world's top 20 best-performing countries in tourist arrivals, recording a 21 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2024 and a 40 per cent rise over the pre-pandemic year of 2019. In mid-June this year, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) highlighted Egypt's exceptional performance in its latest Economic Impact Research Report, reporting record-breaking figures for the sector. In 2024, Egypt's travel and tourism sector reached an unprecedented milestone, contributing LE1.4 trillion to national GDP, equivalent to 8.5 per cent of the economy, the highest share ever recorded. This figure does not only include tourism revenues but also the spending of tourists, the job opportunities the sector created through the year, and investments in the sector. 'Looking ahead, the momentum is set to continue,' the report said, adding that projections for 2025 indicate a further 4.9 per cent growth in the sector, with its contribution to GDP forecast to rise to 8.6 per cent, setting yet another all-time high. 'Egypt's travel and tourism sector is experiencing a powerful resurgence, with record-breaking economic contribution and a sustained surge in visitor spending. These numbers reflect a sector on the rise: dynamic, resilient, and vital to the country's growth,' Julia Simpson, WTTC president and CEO, was quoted as saying in a statement. She added that with its rich cultural heritage, world-class attractions, and growing connectivity, Egypt continues to captivate travellers from around the globe. The government's focus on investment, infrastructure, and sustainable tourism is clearly paying off. Sherif Fathy, minister of tourism and antiquities, confirmed that the country had recorded an increase ranging between 23 and 24 per cent in tourist arrivals during the first half of 2025, reaching 8.7 million visitors, compared to the same period in 2024, with 22 per cent growth recorded in June alone. He added that the country is targeting a 14 per cent increase in inbound tourist traffic, aiming to attract between 17.5 to 18 million visitors by the end of 2025. 'This goal reflects the government's strategic commitment to expanding and strengthening the tourism sector as a major pillar of national economic growth,' he said. Fathy emphasised that the ministry is intensifying efforts to enhance Egypt's tourism environment through large-scale infrastructure upgrades and expanded global promotional campaigns. According to data from the Central Bank of Egypt (CBE), tourism revenues reached a record $15.3 billion in 2024, marking a nine per cent increase over the previous year. These figures underscore the success of government policies designed to position Egypt as a premier destination for international travellers. The Red Sea resorts and Nile cruises were among the strongest performers, with a 25 per cent increase in tourist numbers during the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, receiving 3.9 million visitors. 'Egypt's rising appeal as a global tourism destination is being driven by a combination of security, political stability, economic competitiveness, and strategic marketing efforts to targeted markets,' Fathy said. The security conditions in Egypt have positioned it as a preferred destination for travellers from Europe, the Gulf region, and beyond. Last Saturday, the US and the UK announced updated travel advisories for Egypt, reflecting improved safety conditions. Egypt has been reclassified by the US Department of State under Level Two: Exercise Increased Caution, placing it in the same category as countries such as France and Germany. Egypt was previously under Level Three: Reconsider Travel. Another major factor fuelling this growth is the relatively cheap Egyptian pound when compared to currencies used by Gulf and European tourists, making the destination attractive for leisure travel, business, and longer stays. As part of its strategy to expand its global reach, the government has rolled out several digital campaigns targeting key regional markets, under the slogan: 'Egypt… Unmatched Diversity.' 'We are actively working to diversify Egypt's tourism products to unlock the full potential of our heritage, nature, and beaches, transforming them into marketable, world-class experiences that speak to today's global traveller,' Fathi said, elaborating that the ministry's goal is to position the country as the world's most dynamic and diverse tourist destination. New destinations such as the Siwa Oasis, Alamein, and South Sinai are being introduced to both local and international markets. These emerging regions offer unique experiences in eco-tourism, adventure tourism, and medical tourism, reflecting the government's broader strategy to attract a more diverse and sustainability-minded traveller base. The country, in cooperation with the global travel platform WEGO has recently launches an initiative to attract one million Arab tourists by mid-2026. The campaign utilises multilingual digital marketing tools, particularly in Arabic and English, to engage a wider audience and promote Egypt as a dynamic and accessible destination. Global travel demand has remained strong and resilient, according to the UN Tourism May 2025's Barometer. Around 300 million tourists travelled internationally in the first quarter of 2025, about 14 million more than in 2024. International tourist arrivals increased by five per cent in the first quarter of 2025, compared to the same period in 2024, and three per cent above the pre-pandemic year 2019. Despite global uncertainty, travel demand is expected to remain resilient. UN Tourism's January projection of three to five per cent growth in international arrivals for 2025 remains unchanged. * A version of this article appears in print in the 24 July, 2025 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly Follow us on: Facebook Instagram Whatsapp Short link:
USA Today
4 days ago
- Business
- USA Today
Bad Bunny is making Puerto Rico the hottest trip of 2025
When we talk about tourism trends, we usually focus on airlines, prices and algorithms. But what if the most significant driver of travel to a destination wasn't an ad campaign or a seasonal super deal, but its people represented by an artist? That is precisely what's happening in Puerto Rico. Bad Bunny's residency, "No me quiero ir de aquí," in San Juan, is not only breaking records in sales and attendance, but has become one of the most powerful economic and cultural catalysts the island has seen in recent years. Its impact is not anecdotal: according to an analysis by Moody's Analytics cited by Bloomberg, Puerto Rico is defying the tourism slowdown that many markets in the United States are experiencing. While hotel occupancy in several U.S. cities has decreased, in Puerto Rico it has increased. And it's no coincidence. While the World Travel & Tourism Council projects a loss of $12.5 billion in international travel spending this year in the United States, Puerto Rico is headed in the opposite direction. According to Discover Puerto Rico, the island recorded a 25% increase in hotel occupancy in the first quarter of 2025 and an 11% growth in lodging revenue, compared to the same period last year. At a time when the global tourism economy is showing signs of cooling, Puerto Rico stands out as an example of how culture can become a real economic engine. The experience is worth it The Puerto Rican economy, historically tied to the ups and downs of the U.S. economy, rarely grows on its own. But this time, there is a cultural factor that is tipping the balance: identity. Bad Bunny's new album, in addition to being a musical phenomenon, is a declaration of principles – a love letter to his homeland. From the lyrics to the visual promotion, the artist has made it clear that traveling to the island is more than tourism: it is an experience, it is pride, it is connection. Those of us who work in the travel and digital content industries need to reflect. For years, the equation seemed simple: look for the cheapest fare, even if the trip was mediocre. But the consumer has evolved. Today, more than ever, it wants to save, yes, but without sacrificing what really matters: experience. Travel should be transformative, not transactional. Travelers want to get to know a country, not just visit it. They want to savor its cuisine, understand its history, and walk its streets with local music in the background. Bad Bunny has organically created that with his music and platform. It has turned Puerto Rico into an emotional desire, not just a geographical destination. At a time when so many tourism markets are facing decline, Puerto Rico is teaching us a powerful lesson: culture drives the economy. Authenticity isn't just good for the soul; it's also good for hotels, restaurants, and airlines. The future of tourism is not measured only in hotel occupancy or the number of flights. It is also measured in songs, in identity, in how a place makes us feel. That's why, when we hear about Bad Bunny, let's remember that his impact goes far beyond reggaeton: he's redefining how and why we travel. Wilson "Wil" Santiago Burgos is the founder of one of the largest travel platforms in Puerto Rico and the Latin American market in the U.S.
IOL News
14-07-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
Travelling to the US? Your social media could get you deported
Avoid deportation when travelling to the US - and theimpact of your social media on your status. Image: Unspash Planning a holiday or work trip to the United States? You may want to double-check your social media first. In today's increasingly politicised travel environment, tourists, including South Africans, are being cautioned to think twice about what they've shared online before stepping onto a flight. A recent case involving a young Norwegian traveller has sparked global debate. Mads Mikkelsen, a 21-year-old tourist, says he was stopped at Newark Liberty International Airport in June and denied entry after US immigration officials browsed through his mobile phone and found a meme mocking the American Vice President, J.D. Vance. According to Mikkelsen, he was interrogated, forced to give up his phone password under threat of fines and imprisonment, and later sent back to Norway without setting foot beyond the airport. Although U.S. authorities deny that the meme was the reason for the deportation, citing Mikkelsen's alleged past drug use instead, the incident highlights growing concerns around privacy, freedom of expression, and the ever-widening net of border control policies under President Donald Trump's second term. This isn't an isolated case. In recent months, a French academic was refused entry because of comments he made about U.S. science policy under Trump. An Australian writer was recently questioned about his views on the Israel-Gaza conflict before being sent home. The message seems clear: your online footprint could be scrutinised and used against you, even if your travel plans are entirely legitimate. What's changed? The Trump administration has ramped up efforts to tighten immigration procedures. These include enhanced screening of tourists, foreign students, and even long-standing visa holders. In some cases, border agents are instructed to inspect social media profiles, private messages, and photos on mobile devices - with or without a warrant. While visitors to the U.S. do have rights, they're limited. Tourists aren't entitled to the same constitutional protections as citizens. That means your phone can be manually searched scrolling, keyword searches, and deep dives into apps, without needing probable cause. "For more invasive forensic searches - where your device is plugged in and analysed, officials must claim 'reasonable suspicion' - a vague term with no clear legal definition. Nate Freed Wessler of the American Civil Liberties Union explains, there are no meaningful safeguards. 'Tourists have fewer civil rights than you do elsewhere in the US,' he warns. Refusing to answer questions or surrender your device could simply result in denial of entry or even temporary detention. The risks extend beyond inconvenience. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council, the U.S. could lose over $12.5 billion (R223,90 billion) in international tourism spend this year, as travellers grow wary of what feels like digital surveillance at the border. South African travellers: What to know Your online activity matters: Avoid political posts, especially memes, satire, or criticism of US politicians before your trip. Your phone can be searched: Officials may inspect your device at the border, and refusing to unlock it could result in denial of entry. There's little recourse: Tourists can be detained for up to 90 days without formal charges. Always be honest: Any admission of drug use, even in the past, could affect your visa or travel status. As tempting as it may be to share your views online, doing so could unknowingly impact your ability to travel. In the current climate, it's safer to scroll mindfully and post cautiously, because what's on your phone might just stop your trip before it even begins. IOL Travel Get your news on the go, click here to join the IOL News WhatsApp channel.
Malaysian Reserve
14-07-2025
- Business
- Malaysian Reserve
Interest rate cut needs institutional follow through to be adequate
The OPR cut is important, but banks and govt machineries at the federal, state and local level need to make a paradigm shift to promote expansionary sentiments LAST week, Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) duly delivered what was expected from the central bank, lowering the banking system's interest rate to promote spending and investment — in theory, at least. The benchmark Overnight Policy Rate (OPR) was cut down for the first time since July 2020, by 25 basis points (bps) to 1.75%, heralding an incoming economic slowdown and trade headwinds. With the global economic growth expected to moderate in the second half of the year (2H25) against the backdrop of trade tensions and geopolitical risk, Malaysia cannot afford to allow domestic demand to be weighed down by external factors. The Malaysian economic growth is already projected to slow down to around 4% this year, from 5.5% in 2024 as US President Donald Trump's tariff tantrum continues, dampening export momentum. Nonetheless, economists are confident that domestic demand, driven by labour market improvements and tourism recovery, will remain resilient. Upward sentiments in the labour market are underlined by the unemployment rate holding steady at a decade-low of 3% in May 2025, supported by the stable growth pace of the labour force (0.2% month-to-month) and decline in loss of employment (-14%). The tourism industry, in the meantime, is estimated to record up to 7.8% growth, or 26.9 million tourist arrivals this year, marking a full recovery to pre-Covid-19 levels in 2019. The World Travel & Tourism Council projects that the tourism and travel industry will contribute 11.3% to the national GDP, or RM332 billion, in 2025, significantly higher than last year's RM218 billion. However, economists have cautioned that policy interventions by the central bank would be useless if the banking system and the whole government machinery — either at federal, state or local govt level — fail to shift-up and follow through. The lowering of OPR will only affect consumers' pockets positively if banks decide to channel the savings to real loan rates. An economist also cautioned that despite OPR being cut down to 2.75% the real interest rate stood at 1.55%, which is still high by historical standards. The long-term average real interest rate in Malaysia is 0.88%, which means borrowers are still paying an expensive cost for loans in real terms, he argued. Monetary policy needs to be accommodative, and business policy needs to be entrepreneur and people-friendly for consumer confidence to flourish and spending to grow. Unbeknownst to the public, local governments are especially influential in determining spending patterns among their constituents, as they have wide-ranging, self-interpreted local laws at their disposal, which, in some occasions, are ridiculously baffling and beyond common sense. Take, for instance, one particular state city where its enforcement division is making restrictive interpretations of the law governing food kiosks, which, in effect, sabotage genuine entrepreneurs and discourage customers from frequenting the joint. This kiosk, selling toasts and simple breakfast delicacies at a local lake park, was a hit and went viral even before the word 'viral' was invented. It was, however, recently slapped with a weird ruling by the local authority, banning it from placing tables and chairs for its customers, even though the area in front of the kiosk is vacant and clearly designed to accommodate dining chairs and tables. Weird, to say the least. But frankly speaking, it clearly looks like spiteful sabotage by the very people who are supposed to promote and support entrepreneurship. Now, with the aligning of powers between the state and federal, the government might want to consider covering these local councils as part of the economic support system. It is developmental economy on a longer horizon, which should be a priority for the nation. Asuki Abas is the editor of The Malaysian Reserve, and a former entrepreneur disillusioned with bureaucracy. This article first appeared in The Malaysian Reserve weekly print edition
