National Tourism Day 2026: India’s Tourism sector looks to sustainable, inclusive growth

This year's overall vision very much aligns with the inclusive growth of India’s tourism sector.

- Compiled by Kartika Kiran

Every year on January 25, India pauses to celebrate National Tourism Day, a celebration of travel’s transformative role in the nation’s economy, culture and community engagement. Observed by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, the day serves as a reminder of tourism’s evolving significance in shaping the country’s global image under the ‘Incredible India’ banner.

Across Central policy initiatives and state-led programmes, there is a growing emphasis on responsible and sustainable tourism, community-centric development, and greater youth participation through innovation and creative engagement, hence this year's overall vision very much aligns with the inclusive growth of India’s tourism sector.

The fiscal year 2025 served as a significant launchpad for the milestone being celebrated today. Following a strategic 3.3% increase in capital expenditure, which brought the sector’s earmarked overall budget allocation to approximately INR 2,479.2 Crore for the 2024-25 cycle, the industry is now hitting its stride. According to the official government projections, India’s Tourism sector is on a path to contribute an estimated USD 512 billion to nation’s GDP by 2028, and by 2030 is projected to become one of the world’s largest global spenders on tourism, with an annual expenditure estimated at USD 410 billion. This momentum is validated by India’s rank to 39^th place on the World Economic Forum’s Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI).

While this allocation has been a positive signal of intent, inbound tourism continues to struggle in regaining its pre-pandemic momentum.

That said, with the renewed vigour surrounding National Tourism Day and the groundwork laid through multiple central and state-level initiatives, the industry remains hopeful of a stronger inbound revival in 2026, supported by refreshed campaigns, improved budgetary support, and sharper, more consistent international marketing efforts.

 On this occasion, T3 brings together the perspective of leading voices from the tourism industry to mark National Tourism Day 2026:  

- Rajiv Mehra,  General Secretary of the Federation of Associations in Indian Tourism & Hospitality (FAITH)

As we celebrate India's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, the tourism industry is buzzing with promises. With international visitor spending expected to soar, India's diverse attractions – from bustling cities to serene landscapes – are set to captivate travelers worldwide.

Trends shaping the industry include:

- Wellness Tourism: Growing at 8.3% annually, wellness trips are a major draw.

- Sustainable Tourism: Eco-friendly practices and responsible travel are gaining traction.

- Digitalization: Tech-enhanced experiences are redefining how we explore India.

- Experiential Travel: Immersive cultural encounters are in high demand.

Initiatives like Swadesh Darshan Scheme, e-Visa Facility, and Incredible India are boosting India's tourism potential. As we mark this day, let's appreciate tourism's impact on India's economy and culture. Here's to discovering new destinations, embracing local traditions, and creating unforgettable memories!

With India's tourism sector poised for growth, the future looks bright. Let's explore, experience, and celebrate the best of India!

- Vaibhav Kala, Senior Vice President of ATOAI

National Tourism Day is an annual reminder that tourism in India is not just about travel, but about responsibility, livelihoods, and 5–6% to India’s GDP, besides the way we choose to engage with our landscapes and communities. 

Adventure tourism today stands at the threshold of a growing demand for authentic, nature-based experiences. This growth must be rooted in strong safety standards, professional training, environmental stewardship, and genuine community participation.  Our priority should be to build an ecosystem where exploration inspires respect, economic progress goes hand in hand with sustainability, and every journey leaves a positive impact on both people and place.  it has the potential to become one of the country’s strongest engines of inclusive growth. For 2026, the mantra should be to Do It Right!

- Anil Kalsi, Vice President, TAFI

National Tourism Day is a timely reminder of tourism’s vital role in driving economic growth, cultural exchange, and global understanding. For India, tourism is not just an industry but a powerful connector—linking heritage, spirituality, nature, and modern experiences with the world. As the sector continues its strong recovery, the focus must now shift towards sustainable growth, responsible travel, and meaningful experiences that benefit local communities while preserving our rich legacy. Digital transformation, improved infrastructure, and destination diversification are opening new opportunities, especially in niche segments such as religious, experiential, and wellness tourism. Collaboration between government, industry stakeholders, and service providers will be key in shaping a resilient and future-ready tourism ecosystem. National Tourism Day encourages us to innovate, adapt, and reaffirm our commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive, and globally competitive travel industry.

- Jyoti Mayal, Chairperson, THSC

National Tourism Day serves as an important occasion to recognise tourism as a powerful catalyst for economic growth, cultural preservation, and social inclusion. A day to be celebrated nation wide.

It highlights India’s vast and diverse tourism potential while reaffirming our collective commitment to promoting the sector as a key pillar of national development. Tourism not only showcases the country’s heritage and traditions but also generates employment and entrepreneurial opportunities, particularly for local communities and small businesses.

From the government’s standpoint, tourism is being positioned as a strategic growth engine supported by progressive policies and targeted initiatives. 

Programmes such as Swadesh Darshan, PRASAD, Incredible India, and improved regional connectivity are focused on strengthening infrastructure, enhancing destination competitiveness, and improving visitor experience. 

These initiatives reflect a long-term vision to make India a globally attractive, accessible, and sustainable tourism destination.

The current outlook for the tourism industry remains positive, driven by renewed domestic demand, increasing international arrivals, and growing interest in experiential, spiritual, and sustainable travel. Going forward, priorities include responsible tourism practices, digital innovation, skill development, safety standards, and community participation. 

National Tourism Day reinforces our resolve to work in partnership with all stakeholders to build a resilient, inclusive, and future-ready tourism ecosystem for India.

- Jose Ramapuram, Executive Director Marketing, Evolve Back Resorts

Over the years, we, at Evolve Back Resorts, have seen how thoughtfully designed properties and nature-integrated experiences can quietly transform the relationship between people and place. When built forms recede into the landscape, when local knowledge shapes guest journeys, and when daily operations respect ecological rhythms, tourism begins to restore rather than extract. Guests become more attentive, communities more invested, and natural systems more resilient.

National Tourism Day is a reminder that the future of travel lies not in expansion at any cost, but in learning how to exist in harmony with nature. When travel is shaped by humility and care, it deepens respect for the land and strengthens the ecosystems and cultures that make these destinations worth protecting in the first place.