Overview
- Tourism logged 2.96 billion visits in 2024 and engaged over 13% of workers yet contributed only about 5% of GDP versus a ~10% global average.
- MSMEs dominate services across stays, transport, food, guiding and crafts but struggle to move up the value chain, curbing incomes and year‑round jobs.
- India hosts roughly 1.4% of global international tourists, with nearly one‑third diaspora visits focused on family trips rather than leisure.
- Outbound travel spending by Indians reached about USD 17 billion in FY2024, signaling demand leakage the report says can be retained with stronger offerings.
- Recommendations center on circuit-based infrastructure via PPPs, flagship destination hubs, stronger safety and hygiene, sustainability‑led management, deeper MSME integration with SHGs and home‑stays, targeted skilling, branding and digital promotion, and easier credit with formalisation pathways, with inclusive gains for women and youth.