Between 2014 and 2025 India recorded 181.25 million international arrivals and 93.35 million foreign tourist arrivals. India ranked 20th in international tourist arrivals in 2024 and was the 8th largest tourism economy with a contribution of USD 231.6 billion.
Key statistics (2014–2025)
- International & foreign arrivals: 181.25 million international arrivals; 93.35 million foreign tourist arrivals (2014–2025).
- Global position: 20th in international arrivals (2024), 8th largest tourism economy; WTTC projects rise to 4th globally over the next decade.
Central schemes and sanctioned projects
- Swadesh Darshan (2014): 76 projects sanctioned across 15 thematic circuits; investment >₹5,000 crore; 75 projects completed as of 25 June 2026.
- Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (2022): 53 projects sanctioned; sanctioned cost ₹2,208.31 crore; emphasises sustainable, experience-based destination development.
- PRASHAD (2014–15): 54 pilgrimage projects sanctioned; investment >₹1,700 crore; projects at Somnath, Srisailam, Govardhan.
- SASCI (Budget 2024–25): 40 projects across 23 states; sanctioned outlay ₹3,295.76 crore for iconic tourist centres.
Human resources and policy vision
- Capacity building: Over 4.5 lakh persons trained under Capacity Building for Service Providers (2014–25); Budget 2026–27 proposes a National Institute of Hospitality and upskilling for 10,000 tourist guides.
- Tourism Vision 2029: Target to develop at least one world-class tourist destination in every state; focuses on holistic destination ecosystems.
Regulatory update
- Visa policy: General travel visa applications for Bangladeshi citizens to resume from 28 June 2026.
IASPOINT Booster Facts
- Administration: Ministry of Tourism is nodal agency for Swadesh Darshan, PRASHAD and Capacity Building schemes.
- Project approvals: Central assistance follows project-wise appraisal and centre‑state sharing norms under Ministry guidelines.
- Data sources: Arrival and economic figures drawn from Ministry of Tourism, WTTC and UNWTO methodologies.