India celebrates World Tourism Day 2025, pushes for sustainable transformation and Viksit Bharat vision

The Ministry of Tourism on Saturday celebrated World Tourism Day with the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation”, bringing together stakeholders from government, industry, academia and civil society to underscore India’s push for eco-friendly and inclusive growth in the sector.

The event, aligned with the UN World Tourism Organization’s global theme, highlighted tourism’s potential in driving economic progress, cultural exchange and sustainability, while contributing to the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’.

Vice Chairperson of NITI Aayog Suman Bery, who was the chief guest, emphasised tourism’s role beyond leisure, describing it as a tool for economic transformation, environmental protection and social inclusion. “Globally, sustainable tourism has preserved biodiversity while creating livelihoods. India has similar potential, but sustainability must be at the core of our strategy,” he said.

Bery called for convergence across sectors like transport, urban development, digital technology and infrastructure to enhance connectivity through roads, rails, air and waterways. This, he noted, would make destinations more accessible, distribute benefits widely and ease pressure on popular sites. He stressed the need for public-private partnerships that integrate industry investments with community involvement and environmental safeguards.

“For Viksit Bharat 2047, our tourism sector must be green, inclusive and future-ready, where communities are beneficiaries and India’s cultural and natural heritage is showcased globally with pride,” Bery added.

Minister of State for Tourism Suresh Gopi, who presided over the function, highlighted ongoing initiatives such as Swadesh Darshan 2.0 and PRASHAD schemes, which promote eco-friendly accommodations, rural tourism and tech upgrades via online platforms. He underlined collaborations with states, industry, civil society and local communities for resilient growth.

“Tourism thrives with strong linkages to transportation, infrastructure and allied services. Investments in airports, highways, inland waterways and railways are ensuring seamless travel,” Gopi said, citing schemes like UDAN for better last-mile connectivity and multi-modal hubs to foster regional development.

Key highlights included the signing of MoUs with Netflix, Atithi Foundation and major online travel agencies (OTAs). The Netflix tie-up aims to showcase Indian destinations through films, trailers and global promotions, while partnerships with Atithi Foundation and OTAs focus on research, innovation, capacity building and feedback mechanisms for data-driven policies.

The ministry launched the Project Management Information System (PMIS) for real-time tracking of tourism projects to boost efficiency and transparency. It also released the 66th edition of the India Tourism Data Compendium, noting India’s 20th global rank in international arrivals, record visitor numbers, job creation and economic impact.

A booklet titled “Guide to MUDRA Loans for Homestays” was unveiled, offering step-by-step guidance for stakeholders to apply for loans via the Jan Samarth portal.

The event featured a high-level panel on transportation and connectivity with officials from road, aviation, railways and shipping ministries, stressing multi-modal links for sustainable expansion. Thematic sessions discussed case studies like Mahakumbh 2025 and the Statue of Unity, alongside innovations in AI, AR/VR and digital twins for better planning and experiences.