Tourism and Culture: Gateways to Inclusive and Sustainable Development in India—8 Crore Jobs Created by the Tourism Sector, Says Union Minister

Union Minister for Tourism and Culture, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, emphasized that tourism and culture are becoming the gateways to India’s inclusive and sustainable development. Speaking at the ICAI Dubai Chapter’s event themed “Year of Growth 2025–26”, the Minister noted that the tourism sector contributes nearly 9% to the national economy and provides employment to over 80 million people. He also highlighted tourism’s role in rural development, women’s empowerment, and cultural preservation.

Proudly reflecting on India’s G-20 presidency, Shri Shekhawat stated that India showcased its diverse tourism offerings—from the Himalayan peaks to the Andaman beaches, and from the Ramayana and Buddhist circuits to medical and adventure tourism—on the global stage. “Tourism is not just travel; it is transformation. It is a bridge connecting the world to India,” he remarked.

Highlighting India’s achievements, the Minister revealed that nearly 20 million foreign tourists visited the country in 2024, generating over $30 billion in revenue. Campaigns like Swadesh Darshan 2.0 and Dekho Apna Desh have injected fresh momentum into domestic tourism, making it more vibrant and accessible.

Culture: India’s Soft Power of Development

Describing culture as a vital soft power for development, Shri Shekhawat said that India’s traditions—such as yoga, Ayurveda, classical dance, and textiles—have become integral to global consciousness in the 21st century. He emphasized that 2025 is a landmark year for cultural diplomacy, with global events like International Yoga Day and the Ramayana Festival showcasing India’s rich heritage.

The Minister also outlined the government’s focus on cultural infrastructure during this “Year of Growth”, including investments in museums, digital archives, cultural centers, and welfare programs for artists. Initiatives like the PM Vishwakarma Yojana and Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat reinforce the vision that culture is not just identity—it’s a path to prosperity. He expressed confidence that this decade of development will position India as a global leader in cultural diplomacy.

Shekhawat Meets UAE Minister of Economy

During his visit to Dubai, Shri Shekhawat also met with UAE’s Minister of Economy, Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, at the UNESCO World Conference on Cultural Policies and Sustainable Development – Mondiacult 2025. Their discussions centered on strengthening the India-UAE tourism corridor and exploring new opportunities for collaboration in the tourism and hospitality sectors between the two nations.