New Delhi, September 26, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Domestic tourist visits in India reached 428.55 crore in 2025, while foreign tourist visits rose to 2.53 crore and foreign exchange earnings from tourism crossed Rs 2.76 lakh crore, according to a government factsheet released ahead of World Tourism Day 2026.
Foreign exchange earnings from tourism stood at Rs 2,76,831 crore, highlighting the sector’s growing contribution to the Indian economy.
Tourism contributed 5.22 per cent to India’s GDP and supported 8.46 crore jobs during 2023-24, the factsheet said.
The government is also expanding India’s digital tourism ecosystem through initiatives such as e-Visa, the Incredible India Digital Platform and NIDHI+. The developments come ahead of World Tourism Day on September 27, which will be observed this year under the theme “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism”.
Alongside digital initiatives, programmes including Swadesh Darshan 2.0, PRASHAD, cruise tourism and tourism skill development are aimed at expanding destinations, improving visitor experiences and creating livelihood opportunities.
Globally, travel and tourism contributed $10.9 trillion, or 10 per cent of global GDP, in 2024. The sector supported 357 million jobs and generated $1.9 trillion in international visitor spending.
India measures tourism’s contribution to the economy through the Tourism Satellite Account, the official framework used to assess the sector’s direct and indirect economic contribution.
The country has also expanded its e-Visa facility, introduced in 2014 with Electronic Travel Authorisation for nationals of 43 countries. It is now available to citizens of 172 countries, with entry permitted through 88 international ports, including 37 airports, 38 seaports and 13 land ports.
According to the factsheet, around 78 per cent of visas issued by India are now electronic visas, while approximately 95 per cent of e-Visa applications are processed within 72 hours.
The revamped Incredible India Digital Platform offers virtual experiences covering cultural, heritage, adventure, gastronomy, wellness, art and craft, and rural attractions. Its AI-powered features include personalised visitor experiences, real-time weather updates, city exploration and access to essential travel services.
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