India’s MICE Industry set to be a major economic driver, generating high-quality jobs: Union Minister of Tourism & Culture, Mr. Gajendra Singh Shekhawat

The Ministry of Tourism, in collaboration with the Department of Tourism, Government of Rajasthan, and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), organized the Meet in India Conclave on 4th May 2025 in Jaipur, Rajasthan. Union Minister of Tourism & Culture, Mr. Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, highlighted that India's Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) Industry is set to be a major economic driver, generating high-quality jobs. He emphasized that India rapidly emerges as a global powerhouse in the MICE sector, fuelled by robust economic growth, world-class infrastructure, and strong government backing. The India MICE market generated a revenue of Rs. 4,16,217 crore (US$ 49,402.6 million) in 2024 and is expected to reach Rs. 8,73,559 crore (US$ 103,686.5 million) by 2030, registering a growth of 13% CAGR. Developments in MICE-ready destinations in cities like Varanasi, Khajuraho, and Kochi drive this growth. Over the last decade, India has shown significant growth in infrastructure, with over 1,50,000 km of roads, new railway stations, semi-high-speed trains, more than 150 operational airports, and over 2.48 million hotel rooms. The hosting of G20 nations has further reinforced India's growing venue network and regional tourism potential.
Vice Chairperson of NITI Aayog, Mr. Suman Bery, emphasized the vision laid by Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi during India's G20 presidency, which has opened new pathways for the country to become a global hub for events and experiences. Highlighting Rajasthan as an emerging MICE destination, Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Ms. Diya Kumari, said that Rajasthan is not just a heritage destination but a vibrant, future-ready hub for MICE tourism, with state-of-the-art convention centers, seamless connectivity, digital infrastructure, and world-class hospitality. Additional Secretary & Director General of Tourism, Mr. Suman Billa, set the context for MICE in India and emphasized the need for a unified national strategy, skilled talent, digital tools, and strong state-led promotion to propel India into the top five MICE markets by 2025. Past President of FICCI, Dr. Jyotsna Suri highlighted that India is now ready to take on the world as a leading MICE destination, with exceptional infrastructure and seamless connectivity. The event concluded with sessions on catalysing growth, unlocking India's MICE tourism potential, and strategizing for success.

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