India’s Tourism Growth to Be Driven by Skills and MSMEs
Ram runs a small bamboo handicrafts shop on the outskirts of Shillong. His neatly woven baskets draw interest from foreign tourists who visit Meghalaya for its pristine landscapes and local craftsmanship. With the right language skills and access to digital payments, Ram can seamlessly serve a growing base of global visitors. His story captures the larger opportunity in India’s tourism sector — one where local enterprises and communities unlock growth by making every visitor experience smoother, safer, and more memorable.
Momentum and Direction
India’s tourism sector has regained strong momentum. The country welcomed over 9 million foreign visitors in 2023, while domestic trips crossed 1.5 billion, driven by rising incomes, better connectivity, and post-pandemic travel recovery. The Union Budget 2024–25 rightly identifies tourism as a driver of inclusive growth and employment, highlighting skill development and destination management as core priorities.
