Draft National Tourism Policy Aims to Elevate India's Tourism Industry

New Delhi, August 3, 2023: The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, has unveiled a comprehensive Draft National Tourism Policy with the objective of propelling India’s tourism sector to new heights. Encompassing inputs from Central Ministries, State Governments/UT Administrations, and Industry Stakeholders, the policy outlines a strategic roadmap to harness the potential of tourism as a significant contributor to the Indian economy.

Key Objectives of the National Tourism Policy:

Economic Enrichment: The policy emphasizes augmenting tourism’s role in the Indian economy by boosting visitor numbers, extending stays, and increasing spending, transforming India into a year-round tourist destination.

Employment Generation: By fostering a conducive environment, the policy seeks to create job opportunities and encourage entrepreneurship within the tourism sector. The goal is to build a skilled workforce to support the industry’s growth.

Competitiveness and Investment: The policy strives to enhance the competitiveness of the tourism sector, inviting private sector investments to facilitate infrastructure development and innovation.

Cultural and Natural Preservation: With a commitment to sustainability, the draft aims to safeguard and enhance India’s cultural and natural resources, ensuring their longevity for generations to come.

Responsible Development: The policy places emphasis on sustainable, responsible, and inclusive tourism development across the country.

In line with this overarching vision, the Ministry of Tourism introduced the “Adopt a Heritage: Apni Dharohar, Apni Pehchaan” project. This initiative is geared towards enhancing tourism facilities at heritage, natural, and tourist sites across India. The project invites stakeholders such as public and private sector entities, trusts, NGOs, and individuals to become ‘Monument Mitras’ and participate in the development and upgrading of amenities at these sites, following a sustainable investment model.

To further bolster the tourism sector and foster collaboration, the Ministry organized a two-day Chintan Shivir under the theme of ‘Tourism in Mission Mode: Convergence and Public Private Partnership’. The event facilitated brainstorming, strategy development, and idea exchange to promote tourism in a mission-oriented manner. A steering committee, comprising representatives from key ministries, industry associations, and Invest India, was established to spearhead investments and public-private participation in the tourism and hospitality sector.

In alignment with these efforts, the Ministry has introduced several initiatives, including the Swadesh Darshan 2.0, which encourages private sector and public-private partnerships, and the Travel for LiFE Initiative, aimed at promoting sustainable tourism practices.

The Ministry is also actively engaging citizens through the “Dekho Apna Desh” initiative, using webinars to raise awareness about India’s rich heritage and culture, instill a sense of national pride, and encourage domestic travel. Educational initiatives, such as quiz programs and competitions, are being conducted to familiarize students with the nation’s history, heritage, and tourism destinations.

To attract foreign investments, the policy allows 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) under the automatic route in the tourism and hospitality industry, paving the way for significant contributions to the sector’s growth.

The Draft National Tourism Policy reflects India’s commitment to nurturing its diverse cultural heritage while leveraging the potential of tourism as a driving force behind economic growth and sustainable development.