In a significant push for the tourism sector, NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Suman Bery emphasized the need for each Indian state to develop world-class travel destinations. Speaking at the inaugural session of the Incredible India International Cruise Conference held in Mumbai on April 17, 2026, Bery highlighted the importance of extending tourist stays to boost the economy.
Focus on World-Class Destinations
Bery articulated that the future of tourism in India hinges on the creation of globally competitive destinations. He stated, “Each state must develop a world-class destination that can attract tourists from around the globe.” This strategic move aims to enhance India’s visibility as a top travel destination, catering to both domestic and international travelers. Originally reported by Moneycontrol.com.
According to the NITI Aayog, the Indian travel industry has immense potential to contribute significantly to the nation’s GDP. Currently, the tourism sector accounts for approximately 9.2% of the GDP and employs around 42 million people. With proper investments in infrastructure and destination development, these numbers could see substantial growth.
Encouraging Longer Tourist Stays
One of the key strategies discussed by Bery was the necessity for states to encourage longer stays by tourists. He noted, “By promoting extended stays, we can enhance the overall experience for travelers and stimulate local economies.” The idea is to engage tourists with a variety of experiences that encourage them to explore beyond the usual attractions.
To facilitate this, Bery suggested states create diverse tourism packages that showcase local culture, cuisine, and heritage. By integrating experiential tourism into marketing strategies, states can attract a demographic of travelers looking for authentic experiences, which may lead to increased spending in local economies.
Investment in Infrastructure
For these ambitious plans to materialize, significant investment in infrastructure is crucial, according to Bery. He urged state governments to prioritize improvements in transportation, accommodation, and amenities that cater to the needs of modern travelers. This includes enhancing connectivity through better roads, airports, and public transport systems.
Moreover, Bery called for the establishment of Partnerships between public and private sectors to accelerate infrastructure development. He emphasized that a collaborative approach could draw in private investors willing to fund projects that align with the goal of developing world-class destinations.
Government Initiatives and Policy Support
As part of the broader strategy to revitalize tourism in India, the government has introduced several initiatives aimed at enhancing tourist experiences. Bery pointed to schemes like the Swadesh Darshan and PRASAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spirituality Augmentation Drive) programs, which are designed to promote integrated development of theme-based tourist circuits and pilgrimage sites.
These initiatives reflect a growing recognition of the transformative power of tourism, not just for economic growth, but also for cultural exchange and preservation. Bery mentioned that tourism could serve as a vital tool in promoting India’s rich heritage and diversity on the world stage.
As NITI Aayog continues to push for world-class tourism development, the focus remains clear: enhance tourist experiences, encourage longer stays, and invest in sustainable infrastructure. With the right policies in place, the Indian tourism sector stands poised for a dynamic transformation that could yield significant benefits for both the economy and the communities involved.
In summary, the call for each state to develop world-class destinations and promote longer tourist stays is not just a suggestion; it’s a roadmap to revitalizing India’s tourism landscape. As stakeholders from various sectors engage in this initiative, the potential for growth and innovation in the travel industry becomes increasingly evident.
Originally reported by Moneycontrol.com. View original.
