Latest news with #WTTC
News18
13 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
14 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:
Indian Express
15-07-2025
- Business
- Indian Express
India among top 10 global tourism economies in 2024–25: What UPSC aspirants must know
Take a look at the essential events, concepts, terms, quotes, or phenomena every day and brush up your knowledge. Here's your UPSC current affairs knowledge nugget for today on WTTC's 2024 Economic Impact Trends Report and Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI) 2024. (Relevance: UPSC frequently asks questions on reports and indices. The key takeaways from these reports are also essential fodder for your Mains examination for intricate points. In 2012, a question was asked in relation to the Multidimensional Poverty Index; in 2019, the question appeared on the Global Competitiveness Report. Therefore, it becomes important to know about the indices and reports that are in the news.) Amid a strong post-pandemic recovery and despite various challenges, the global travel and tourism sector contributed US$10.9 trillion to the world economy in 2023, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). The WTTC's 2024 Economic Impact Trends Report shows the industry on an upward trajectory, with the World Economic Forum (WEF) forecasting the sector to hit $16 trillion by 2034, representing over 11 per cent of global GDP. In this context, let's know where India stands globally in terms of tourism economy and highlights of the Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI) 2024. 1. As per the WTTC, the United States remains the world's largest tourism economy in 2024, contributing an unprecedented $2.36 trillion, nearly double that of its closest competitor. China ranks second with $1.3 trillion, and is projected to become the global leader within the next decade. 2. While established players like Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Italy, and Spain continue to hold strong positions in the top 10, Asian economies such as Hong Kong SAR, Malaysia, and the Philippines are fast emerging as regional tourism powerhouses. Japan, notably, climbs to fourth place with a $297 billion contribution. Source: WTTC Economic Impact Research (EIR) 3. India has also made notable progress, now ranking as the eighth-largest tourism economy worldwide with a contribution of $231.6 billion, up from its previous position of tenth. This advancement highlights the country's increasing significance in the sector, with the WTTC forecasting a rise to fourth position within the next decade. 4. Several countries have also seen significant jumps in international tourism spending compared to pre-pandemic levels. These include Saudi Arabia (+91.3 per cent), Türkiye (+38.2 per cent), Kenya (+33.3 per cent), Colombia (+29.1 per cent), and Egypt (+22.9 per cent). Having known the key highlights of WTTC's 2024 Economic Impact Trends Report, let's now learn the key takeaways of a significant global travel and tourism index. 1. The Travel & Tourism Development Index (TTDI) 2024, released by the WEF, is the second edition of an index that evolved from the Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Index (TTCI) series, a flagship index of the WEF that has been in production since 2007. 2. According to WEF's official site, 'The TTDI is part of the Forum's broader work with industry and government stakeholders to build a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient future for economies and local communities.' 3. The TTDI is a biennial index. It measures the set of factors and policies that enable the sustainable and resilient development of the T&T sector, which in turn contributes to the development of a country. 4. In TTDI 2024, among the 119 countries, the US topped the list. After the US, Spain, Japan, France and Australia figure among the top five in the 2024 list. High-income economies in Europe and Asia-Pacific continued to lead the index. Source: World Economic Forum, compiled by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation. 5. Notably, in Southeast Asia, India ranks 39th as the TTDI's top lower-middle-income economy. It was ranked 54th in the previously published index in 2021. 6. The index, prepared in collaboration with the University of Surrey, showed India is highly price-competitive (18th) and boasts competitive Air Transport (26th) and Ground and Port (25th) infrastructure. 7. In particular, India's strong Natural (6th), Cultural (9th) and Non-Leisure (9th) Resources help drive travel, and the country is only one of three to score in the top 10 for all the resource pillars, the WEF said. 1. The Swadesh Darshan Scheme was launched by the Centre in 2014-15 for the integrated development of theme-based tourist circuits. Under the scheme, the Ministry of Tourism provides financial assistance to states and Union territories for the development of tourism infrastructure. 2. Prominent circuits launched under the scheme included Buddhist Circuit, North-East Circuit, Ramayana Circuit, Wildlife Circuit, Rural Circuit etc. However, the scheme could not take off in a way it was expected to, mainly because resources had to be distributed and spread across several states, with too many stakeholders being involved. 3. Therefore, Swadesh Darshan 2.0, focussing on one destination at a time, to attract domestic tourists, was conceptualised. 4. According to the official site of Swadesh Darshan 2.0, 'With the mantra of 'vocal for local', the revamped scheme, namely Swadesh Darshan 2.0, seeks to attain 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' by realising India's full potential as a tourism destination. Swadesh Darshan 2.0 is a generational shift to evolve the Swadesh Darshan Scheme as a holistic mission to develop sustainable and responsible tourism destinations covering tourism and allied infrastructure, tourism services, human capital development, destination management and promotion backed by policy and institutional reforms.' The Travel & Tourism Development Index 2024 is released by: (a) Economist Intelligence Unit (b) United Nations Development Programme (c) World Economic Forum (d) World Bank (Sources: World's top 10 biggest tourism economies in 2024–25: India breaks into top 10 at this rank, India's global travel and tourism index rank up at 39th: WEF index,Swadesh Darshan 2.0, Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter. Stay updated with the latest UPSC articles by joining our Telegram channel – Indian Express UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X. 🚨 Click Here to read the UPSC Essentials magazine for June 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at
Gulf Business
15-07-2025
- Business
- Gulf Business
Saudi Arabia tops global tourism revenue growth in Q1 2025, shows report
Image: Getty Images Saudi Arabia ranked first globally in the growth of international tourism receipts in Q1 2025 compared to the same period in 2019, according to the latest The kingdom also placed third worldwide and second in the Middle East in growth of international tourist arrivals, highlighting its expanding role on the global tourism map. During Q1 2025, Saudi Arabia recorded a 102 per cent surge in international arrivals compared with Q1 2019, far exceeding the global average of 3 per cent and the Middle East's 44 per cent, the UN report showed. 'This outstanding growth underscores Saudi Arabia's position as a key player in both regional and global tourism and underlines its unwavering commitment to advancing the sector,' the report noted. Growth aligned with Saudi' Vision 2030 goals The gains reflect Vision 2030 strategy to diversify the economy and attract 100 million annual visitors by the end of the decade. The kingdom has significantly ramped up investment in tourism infrastructure, from mega projects like NEOM and the Red Sea to hosting major sporting and cultural events. A recent report by the World Economic Forum (WEF), produced in collaboration with Kearney and Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Tourism, said tourism is set to outpace global economic growth. The sector is forecast to contribute $16tn to global GDP by 2034 — more than 11 per cent of the world economy, according to WTTC estimates. Saudi Arabia is positioned at the forefront of this shift. 'With its bold Vision 2030, strategic leadership, and record-breaking visitor numbers, Saudi Arabia is redefining how countries can leverage tourism for inclusive prosperity, cultural diplomacy, and long-term resilience,' the Read:
Indian Express
11-07-2025
- Business
- Indian Express
World's top 10 biggest tourism economies in 2024–25: India breaks into top 10 at this rank
World's Top 10 Biggest Tourism Economies in 2025 List: Amid a strong post-pandemic recovery and despite challenges such as climate pressure and local tourism fatigue, the global travel and tourism sector contributed US$10.9 trillion to the world economy in 2023, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). The WTTC's 2024 Economic Impact Trends Report shows the industry on an upward trajectory, with the World Economic Forum (WEF) forecasting the sector to hit $16 trillion by 2034, representing over 11 per cent of global GDP. As per the WTTC, the United States remains the world's largest tourism economy in 2024, contributing an unprecedented $2.36 trillion, nearly double that of its closest competitor. China ranks second with $1.3 trillion, and is projected to become the global leader within the next decade. Japan, notably, climbs to fourth place with a $297 billion contribution. While established players like Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Italy, and Spain continue to hold strong positions in the top 10, Asian economies such as Hong Kong SAR, Malaysia, and the Philippines are fast emerging as regional tourism powerhouses. Several countries have also seen significant jumps in international tourism spending compared to pre-pandemic levels. These include Saudi Arabia (+91.3 per cent), Türkiye (+38.2 per cent), Kenya (+33.3 per cent), Colombia (+29.1 per cent), and Egypt (+22.9 per cent). Source: WTTC Economic Impact Research (EIR) India's global position explained: India has made notable progress, now ranking as the eighth-largest tourism economy worldwide with a contribution of $231.6 billion, up from its previous position of tenth. This advancement highlights the country's increasing significance in the sector, with the WTTC forecasting a rise to fourth position within the next decade. Cherry Gupta is an Assistant Manager - Content at The Indian Express. She is responsible for crafting compelling narratives, uncovering the latest news and developments, and driving engaging content based on data and trends to boost website traffic and audience engagement. One can connect with her on LinkedIn or by mail at ... Read More
