AI and Digital Tools Propel Growth Across India's Tourism Sector

Artificial intelligence and digital platforms are playing a growing role in India's tourism sector, creating more personalized travel while drawing record numbers of visitors. Government data released on World Tourism Day shows the sector contributed 5.22 percent to India's Gross Domestic Product and supported 8.46 crore jobs in 2023-24. Tourism Satellite Account figures cited by the Ministry of Tourism indicate that sector employment grew from 6.94 crore in 2019-20 to 8.46 crore in 2023-24. Domestic Tourist Visits reached 428.55 crore in 2025, increasing from 67.7 crore in 2021. Foreign Tourist Visits rose from 0.1 crore to 2.53 crore during the same period, while foreign exchange earnings climbed to 2,76,831 crore rupees in 2025 from 63,978 crore rupees in 2021. Rajeev Kale, President and Country Head for Holidays, MICE, and Visa at Thomas Cook India Limited, stated that today's Indian traveler looks for flexible, experience-led journeys including wellness, spiritual tourism, adventure, and premium travel. Kale noted that digital innovation and AI help companies understand preferences and simplify planning. SD Nandakumar, President and Country Head for Holidays and Corporate Tours at SOTC Travel, added that AI now enables faster responses and personalization, though he stressed that human expertise remains necessary to provide context and accountability. National platforms like e-Visa, the Incredible India Digital Platform, and NIDHI continue to operate alongside government development initiatives. These projects include Swadesh Darshan 2.0, PRASHAD, cruise tourism programs, and tourism skill training aimed at strengthening local livelihoods.