The 4th Joint Working Group (JWG) Meeting on Tourism Cooperation between India and Japan was successfully held on April 8, 2025, in New Delhi. Co-chaired by Ms. Mugdha Sinha, Director General, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, and Mr. HARAIKAWA Naoya, Commissioner of the Japan Tourism Agency (JTA), the meeting brought together key officials and private stakeholders from both nations. Participants included representatives from airlines, tourism boards, and travel associations, with prominent organizations such as JNTO, JATA, JTTRI, Japan Airlines, and ANA representing Japan. The Indian side included officials from the Ministries of External Affairs, Civil Aviation, and Education, as well as bodies like NCHMCT, ICCR, and associations such as IATO, OTOAI, and ABTO.
A key focus of the meeting was exploring innovative strategies to deepen tourism ties and enhance two-way visitor flow. The Co-Chairs shared insights into tourism trends, including data related to Buddhist circuits, to develop policies tailored for younger travelers. His Excellency ONO Keiichi, Ambassador of Japan to India, underlined the enduring cultural connections between the two countries and the mutual benefits of expanded tourism cooperation. Discussions centered on initiatives such as boosting Japanese tourist visits to Indian Buddhist sites, enhancing air connectivity, and encouraging Japanese student travel to India. Delegates also highlighted the role of media, digital platforms, and influencer partnerships in promoting tourism.
Further, both sides emphasized private sector engagement and new investment opportunities to build a more vibrant tourism ecosystem. The Indian delegation introduced the Japanese side to the revamped Incredible India digital portal and upcoming Incredible India mobile app, encouraging collaboration for curated itineraries designed specifically for Japanese travelers. India also confirmed its participation in the World Expo, Osaka 2025 (September 22–28), as part of its broader outreach efforts in Japan.
The meeting concluded on a highly optimistic note, with a shared commitment to sustained dialogue and cooperation. Both sides reaffirmed tourism’s potential as a powerful channel for strengthening bilateral relations and cultural exchange.
