From Incredible India to Trailblazing Tourism: India Thrives

India’s tourism industry is witnessing unprecedented growth, solidifying its position as a major economic development engine. The nation’s rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and vibrant festivals increasingly draw domestic and international travelers.

Government initiatives like the “Incredible India” campaign and the introduction of e-visa facilities have played a pivotal role in boosting tourist arrivals. The emphasis on sustainable tourism—promoting eco-tourism and responsible travel practices—has further enhanced India’s appeal.

Infrastructure investments have also fueled the sector’s expansion. Improved connectivity, upgraded hospitality services, and the development of niche tourism segments such as wellness, adventure, and spiritual tourism have propelled growth. States like Kerala, Rajasthan, and Uttarakhand are reaping the benefits, with a notable increase in tourist numbers due to their unique offerings and strategic marketing efforts.

Moreover, the rise of digital platforms and social media has significantly amplified India’s global visibility, encouraging more visitors to discover its countless attractions. Consequently, the tourism industry is set to play a crucial role in job creation, community development, and the nation’s overall economic growth.

In an exclusive conversation with The Interview World at the 1st Indo-US Tourism & Hospitality Summit, hosted by the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce (IACC), Ajay K. Bakaya, Managing Director of Sarovar Hotels Pvt. Ltd., shares his vision for the future of India’s tourism industry. He delves into the growing bilateral relations between India and the US in the tourism sector, highlights Sarovar Hotels’ contributions to promoting tourism across the country, and discusses the rise of religious tourism driven by improved infrastructure. Here are the key takeaways from his insightful conversation.   

Q: What is your vision for the future growth and development of the tourism industry in India?

A: Tourism currently contributes a substantial 8% to India’s GDP and accounts for over 8% of national employment, making it a crucial driver of the economy. Recognizing its potential, we aim to further elevate tourism’s role and bring it to the forefront of economic growth.

India’s growth prospects are underpinned by strong fundamentals. The government is making significant investments in infrastructure, which includes enhancing road networks, expanding airports, and modernizing seaports. These developments are complemented by an ambitious revamp of the country’s aging railway system, which will have a transformative impact on the tourism industry.

The economic foundation remains solid, supported by a stable government that has maintained consistent policies for over a decade. This policy continuity creates a favorable environment for business growth. Moreover, inflation is under control, contributing to economic stability. With demand in India consistently outpacing supply, the stage is set for sustained growth. Over the next five years, we project a steady annual growth rate of 8% to 9%, driven by these favorable conditions and strategic investments.

Q: How do you perceive the current state of bilateral relations between India and the US in the tourism sector, and what opportunities do you see for further strengthening this partnership?

A: The United States stands as a significant and diverse market, encompassing sectors such as education, leisure tourism, and medical tourism, with dynamic exchanges between our two nations. While the sizeable Indian diaspora in the US plays an important role, our vision for this summit is to expand our reach far beyond that community. We are focused on broadening India’s appeal to a wider American audience, aiming to consistently increase the number of American visitors to our country. Our bilateral relations with the US are strong and multifaceted, providing a solid foundation for deeper collaboration. I am confident that tourism can emerge as a pivotal factor in strengthening these ties, allowing us to fully leverage the synergies between our nations.

Q: How is Sarovar Hotels contributing to the growth and promotion of tourism across India?

A: We proudly oversee 120 hotels across 80 diverse destinations throughout India. Our mission is to immerse you in the true essence of India, whether you’re visiting charming villages, vibrant cities, sacred religious sites, or key gateway centers. We excel in pioneering travel to lesser-known, off-the-beaten-path locations, such as Vrindavan, Katra, Coimbatore, and Siliguri. By covering every corner of the country, we ensure that our guests experience the full spectrum of India’s cultural and geographical richness. With our extensive network, we make it possible for you to discover and enjoy even the most remote and unique destinations in the country.

Q: How do you perceive the significant rise in religious tourism across the country over the past decade, and what factors do you believe are driving this trend?

A: Traveling to these destinations has become markedly more convenient compared to the past. With the notable exception of Ayodhya, which has attracted significant attention as a new hotspot, most other locations have not seen a dramatic rise in visitor numbers. However, the overall ease of access has improved, thanks to advancements in infrastructure such as enhanced road networks.

Previously, visitors often faced long, arduous waits. Today, the introduction of advanced ticketing systems has revolutionized the experience, providing specific time slots and significantly reducing waiting times. This has made visiting these sites more manageable and efficient. Although visitor numbers are steadily increasing, there has not been a dramatic surge; the growth remains consistent rather than explosive.