The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and EY launched a whitepaper titled “Employment Landscape in Tourism and Hospitality in India” at the 18th Annual CII Tourism Summit. The report provides a forward-looking analysis of employment trends within one of India’s most vibrant sectors, emphasizing its vital role in driving economic growth and job creation.
Currently, tourism and hospitality contribute approximately 8% to India’s total employment. Despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the sector is experiencing a robust recovery, primarily driven by domestic tourism. By 2036-37, spending in the sector is projected to increase by 1.2 times, creating a demand for an additional 61 lakh workers, including 46 lakh males and 15 lakh females. This growth highlights the sector’s significant contribution to gender inclusion and workforce expansion.
To address this rising demand, the CII-EY report stresses the need for specialized skills in areas such as digital marketing, sustainable tourism, and customer service. Key recommendations from the report include:
- Developing gamified Learning Management Systems (LMS) for continuous professional development.
- Partnering with industry associations to create clear career advancement pathways.
- Establishing a dedicated taskforce under the Ministry of Tourism to standardize skills and education.
In line with global trends, the report emphasizes the integration of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) to position India as a creative tourism hub. Recommendations include granting industry status, offering targeted subsidies, and implementing Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) schemes to boost job creation.
An innovative feature of the report is the introduction of a Tourism Employment Index (TEI) to better assess employment trends. It also explores how the gig economy can provide flexibility and high-quality services during seasonal peaks, while recognizing the importance of community-driven programs and Gen Z workforce preferences in fostering a more inclusive and innovative work environment.
Looking ahead to 2036-37, the sector is expected to require an additional 61.31 lakh workers to support growing tourism activities. Efforts to upskill women and marginalized communities will be crucial to bridging skill gaps and unlocking the sector’s potential for economic growth and job creation.
The CII-EY whitepaper calls for a collective effort from the government, private sector, and academic institutions to tap into the sector’s vast opportunities. By fostering innovation, enhancing workforce skills, and prioritizing inclusivity, India’s tourism and hospitality industry is poised to become a major driver of employment and economic growth.
