Overview

• India is ranked eighth among global tourism economies with travel and tourism contributing about $231.6 billion in 2024–25, according to the WTTC.
• Recent GST reductions—hotel stays to 5% from 12%, large buses to 18% from 28%, and art and cultural goods to 5% from 12%—are set to lower costs, with the rate cuts taking effect Monday as reported by Hindustan Times.
• Officials spotlight expanded e‑medical visas for nationals of 171 countries and the Heal in India initiative as drivers of rising medical tourism, with reported growth to 6.5 lakh visitors in 2024.
• Government-backed connectivity and heritage upgrades, including UDAN air routes, Vande Bharat trains, and projects such as Kashi Vishwanath and Mahakaal Lok, are credited with improving access and visitor experience.
• Coverage cites projections of much larger sector output by the late 2020s and early 2030s, including a reported $512 billion GDP contribution by 2028 and stronger global spending ranks by 2030.