Tourism sector has immense potential to boost country’s economy further: Union Minister Shekhawat

Jaipur, Sep 6 (IANS) Union Minister of Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, said on Saturday that the tourism sector has immense potential to boost the economy further and generate large-scale employment opportunities.

While addressing the 12th Annual Convention of the Indian Heritage Hotels Association (IHHA) at Castle Kanota here, Shekhawat stated, “Tourism is the driver of our economy. Our economy is projected to double every 7-8 years, and tourism already contributes 5-6 per cent to the GDP, compared to nearly 10 per cent globally. With India’s cultural prowess, heritage and diversity, this sector has immense potential to boost the economy further and generate large-scale employment opportunities.”

He noted that travel preferences have changed post-COVID, with tourists seeking immersive, experience-led journeys. He urged the hoteliers and the tourism fraternity to enhance overall visitor experiences.

The Minister announced that a robust repository of photos and videos is being developed under the Incredible India platform to showcase the tourism attractions. He also called for greater promotion of alternative destinations to prevent overcrowding at popular sites and to encourage the discovery of lesser-known gems.

Highlighting the importance of heritage tourism, Shekhawat said it goes beyond monuments and plays a vital role in storytelling and narrative building. “Heritage tourism helps place India firmly on the global tourism map by showcasing who we are as a civilisation,” he added.

Meanwhile, Diya Kumari, the state’s Deputy Chief Minister, said, "Rajasthan will soon launch a mobile app to help tourists with curated recommendations on places to eat and shop, along with quick access to nearby helpline numbers, police stations, and other essential services. The app will be especially useful for women travelling across the state. "Alongside the app, the Government is preparing to roll out a new Tourism Policy, Film Policy, and Adventure Tourism Policy. Efforts are also underway to boost concert tourism; develop circuits in under-explored regions such as Banswara, Barmer, and Karauli; and revive the painted havelis of Shekhawati. " This year Indian Heritage Hotels Association (IHHA) is being organised around the theme of 'Romantic Heritage.”

The Deputy CM added that tourism is among the fastestgrowing sectors of the economy. In 2024, India’s Travel and Tourism sector contributed an estimated Rs 20.9 trillion (about 6.6 per cent of GDP), roughly 20 per cent above pre-pandemic levels, and supported 46.5 million jobs (around 9.1 per cent of total employment). As India transitions to a simplified two-slab GST system from September 22, it is expected to further boost the tourism and hospitality industry by lowering costs and enhancing affordability.