The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, marked World Tourism Day 2025 on September 27 with the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation”, bringing together key stakeholders from government, industry, academia, and civil society. The event highlighted India’s commitment to promoting cultural exchange, economic growth, and sustainable practices across the tourism sector.
The celebration was graced by Shri Suman Bery, Vice Chairperson, NITI Aayog, as the Chief Guest, with Shri Suresh Gopi, Minister of State for Tourism, Petroleum & Natural Gas, presiding over the proceedings. Shri Suman Billa, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, delivered the welcome address. Reflecting the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) theme, discussions emphasized tourism as a catalyst for sustainable transformation and its critical role in India’s vision for Viksit Bharat 2047.
In his address, Shri Suman Bery stated, “Tourism is not just about leisure; it is a powerful tool for economic transformation, environmental stewardship, and social inclusion. India must embed sustainability at the core of its strategy, ensuring convergence across transport, urban development, digital technology, and infrastructure. Seamless connectivity and public-private collaboration are essential to unlock the full potential of tourism while benefiting communities and preserving biodiversity.”
Minister of State for Tourism highlighted India’s sustained efforts to integrate sustainability across initiatives, including Swadesh Darshan 2.0 and PRASHAD, promoting eco-friendly accommodations, rural tourism, and digital innovations. Emphasis was placed on strengthening linkages with transport and infrastructure, with initiatives such as UDAN, improved last-mile connectivity, and integrated multi-modal transport hubs facilitating easier access to destinations.
Key outcomes included the signing of MoUs with Netflix, Atithi Foundation, and leading OTAs. The Netflix partnership aims to promote Indian destinations globally through cinematic storytelling, while collaborations with Atithi Foundation and OTAs focus on research, capacity building, and post-travel feedback to support data-driven policy.
The Ministry also launched the Project Management Information System (PMIS), enabling real-time monitoring of tourism infrastructure projects, and released the 66th edition of the India Tourism Data Compendium, highlighting record international and domestic arrivals, employment generation, and India’s rise to 20th position globally in tourist arrivals. Additionally, a booklet on MUDRA Loans for Homestays was unveiled to guide stakeholders on online loan applications.
The celebration featured high-level panels on transportation and connectivity, with thematic sessions on Mahakumbh 2025, the Statue of Unity, Destination Management Organizations, and the use of AI, AR/VR, and digital twins for enhanced visitor experiences.
World Tourism Day 2025 reaffirmed India’s vision to develop tourism as a sustainable, inclusive, and economically transformative sector, demonstrating global leadership while embracing innovation and cross-sectoral collaboration.
