India has significantly improved its position in the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI) 2024, ranking 39th among 119 countries. This marks a sharp rise from its 54th place in the previous 2021 index, which was later adjusted to 38th after a revision in WEF’s methodology. The boost in India’s ranking reflects a strong recovery in global tourism, following the pandemic, and the country’s growing role as a hub for medical and cultural tourism.
Key Factors Behind India’s Growth in TTDI
Medical Tourism Boost: India is emerging as a global leader in affordable medical tourism. The Ministry of Health has launched the Advantage Healthcare India portal to facilitate international patients seeking medical treatment in India.
Government Schemes for Tourism Development: The Ministry of Tourism has supported infrastructure development through schemes like Swadesh Darshan, PRASHAD, and Assistance to Central Agencies, providing financial aid for tourism projects across the country.
Cultural Heritage and Infrastructure: India’s rich cultural heritage, with over 43 World Heritage Sites and 56 potential sites, strengthens its tourism appeal. The country has also invested in 500 new air routes, 150 new airports, and high-speed trains like Vande Bharat, enhancing accessibility for tourists.
India’s Position and Progress
India’s 39th place reflects a steady rise in global tourism activities, positioning it as the leader in South Asia and one of the top destinations for medical tourism. This ranking, aided by infrastructure improvements and favorable government policies, is a significant achievement and showcases India’s growing influence in the global tourism industry.
Summary of the news
| Why in News | Key Points |
|---|---|
| India ranks 39th in Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI) 2024 | – India ranked 39th out of 119 countries in TTDI 2024, up from 54th in 2021. – The Ministry of Tourism supports tourism infrastructure through schemes like Swadesh Darshan, PRASHAD, and Assistance to Central Agencies. – India is emerging as a global center for medical tourism with the launch of the Advantage Healthcare India portal. – The country has improved infrastructure including 500 new air routes, 150 new airports, and high-speed trains like Vande Bharat. |
| Ministry of Tourism | – Led by Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister for Tourism and Culture. |
| Key Schemes | – Swadesh Darshan: Promotes integrated development of theme-based tourist circuits. – PRASHAD: National Mission on Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation. – Assistance to Central Agencies for Tourism Infrastructure Development. |
| Medical Tourism | – Advantage Healthcare India portal launched for international patients seeking medical treatment in India. |
| Cultural Heritage | – India has 43 World Heritage Sites and 56 potential World Heritage Sites. – Over 3,500 monuments of national importance. |
| Infrastructure Development | – 1,50,000 km road network. – Construction of 150 new airports. – Introduction of high-speed trains like Vande Bharat. |
| President’s Statement | – President Droupadi Murmu highlighted India as a major center for affordable medical tourism. |
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