India observes National Tourism Day on January 25 to raise awareness of the value of travel. The Indian government founded it in an effort to increase public awareness of the value of tourism to the country’s economy.
Every year on January 25, India celebrates National Tourism Day. The purpose of the day is to raise public awareness of the advantages that tourism has for the nation’s economy. The Indian government launched it with the intention of promoting rich cultural heritage, diverse cultures, and scenic beauty. It is also very important to celebrate as in the fiscal year 2023 the ‘Travel & Tourism’ Industry contributed around 11.6% in Indian GDP (Gross Domestic Product).
History
The Indian government is recognized with noticing National Tourism Day for the first time in 1948. Promoting well-liked tourist destinations across the nation and protecting the nation’s cultural heritage were the objectives.
More than 15.3% of Indian workers are employed in the travel and tourism sector, according to statistics. Millions of foreign visitors come to the nation each year (for example, 10.93 million in 2019). The purpose of National Tourism Day is to honor and promote the tourism sector and its role in the development and sustainability of travel destinations and local economies.
On September 27, 2023, India took part in the UN World Tourism Day celebrations as well. India even held this event in 2008.
Through the Tourism Ministry, the Indian government hopes to develop and promote tourism. It also collaborates with federal, state, and private sector organizations.
Significance of National Tourism Day
The promotion of tourism as an essential component of India’s economy and culture is the main reason behind the significance of National Tourism Day. Today is dedicated to:
- Acknowledge the role that tourism plays in the economy of the country.
- Emphasize how tourism promotes cross-cultural exchange.
- Promote ethical and environmentally friendly travel strategies.
- Highlight India’s many attractions, including its rich culinary culture, traditional arts, and historical sites and natural wonders.
- Encourage both domestic and foreign travel.
Theme for this year
Every year National Tourism Day is celebrated with different themes to attract the people. The theme for 2024 has been determined to be ‘Sustainable Journeys, Timeless Memories,’ which encourages traveling with responsibility and mindfulness. The central government organizes seminars, cultural events, and other programs for this day. However, a number of states host events to advertise tourism there.
Facts about Tourism in India
- The Taj Mahal, Agra is the most visited place in India.
- The top 10 most visited places in India are: Goa, Mumbai, Kolkata, Varanasi, Jaipur, Udaipur, Hampi, Pondicherry, Coorg, and Ooty.
- Nonetheless, India is home to the world’s largest human community. A whopping 12 million people attended the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj last year, the majority of them were domestic travelers.
- The Taj Mahal in Agra, Jantar Mantar in Rajasthan, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus and Ajanta & Ellora Caves in Maharashtra, Qutub Minar in Delhi, Sundarbans National Park in West Bengal, and Kaziranga National Park in Assam are among the three UNESCO World Heritage sites in India.
