India’s tourism sector, known for its rich heritage and diversity, is rapidly emerging as a global favourite and a vital economic growth driver. The Union Budget 2025-26 has allocated Rs. 2,541.06 crore (US$ 291.07 million) to improve infrastructure, skill development, and travel facilitation, emphasising developing 50 top tourist destinations through collaboration with state governments. Key measures include organizing skill-development programs, providing Micro Units Development and Refinance Agency (MUDRA) loans for homestays, improving connectivity to tourist sites, and introducing streamlined electronic visa (e-visa) facilities. The budget also supports sustainable tourism through initiatives like the Swadesh Darshan Scheme 2.0, alongside funding for 40 projects across 23 states to enhance tourism infrastructure and employment opportunities.
The government is focusing on revitalizing spiritual tourism, particularly sites associated with Lord Buddha, and promoting medical tourism under the "Heal in India" initiative to boost India’s position as a global healthcare hub. The Medical Value Travel (MVT) sector is growing significantly, driven by India’s blend of modern medicine and traditional wellness systems. The Gyan Bharatam Mission will also focus on preserving India’s manuscript heritage and creating a National Digital Repository for knowledge sharing. These efforts aim to position India as a global leader in tourism, offering world-class experiences in heritage, spirituality, and healthcare while driving employment and economic growth.
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