World Travel and Tourism Council CEO Julia Simpson announced in her video message at the ‘India Travel & Tourism Sustainability Conclave 202’5 here that the country’s travel and tourism sector is expected to reach the global average of 10 per cent. The sector currently contributes 7 percent to the country’s GDP. Simpson praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for increasing investments in the sector and seeing the potential for transformation in community and individual lives.
- 7 per cent growth rate expected for the sector, contributing to 10 per cent globally by 2030.
- 4.8 per cent of India’s greenhouse gas emissions come from the travel and tourism sector, with a decline of 13 per cent.
- The Sustainable Hospitality Handbook, launched, offers hotels a practical framework for adopting environmentally responsible practices.
Emphasis on Sustainable Practices
Simpson emphasized the need for sustainable practices in the sector, noting that 4.8 per cent of India’s greenhouse gas emissions come from the travel and tourism sector. She also pointed out that India is reducing its “carbon intensity” faster than the global average as it is going down by 13 per cent.
Eco-Conscious Travel in India
Deep Kalra, MakeMyTrip founder, highlighted the vast potential of eco-conscious travel within India. He said that sustainable tourism sector, though currently modest in scale, is projected to experience remarkable growth over the next decade.
- Eco-conscious travel is expected to become one of the fastest-growing markets in India.
- India is rich in heritage, culture, and diversity, making it a global favourite for tourists.
- The Union Budget 2025-26 has allocated Rs 2,541.06 crore to enhance infrastructure, skill development, and travel facilitation.
| Highest Tourist Destinations | Top 50 tourist destinations in the country will be developed in a “challenge mode”. |
| Infrastructure and Connectivity | World-class facilities and connectivity will be ensured. |
Initiatives for Sustainable Tourism
The Hotel Association of India developed the Sustainable Hospitality Handbook in collaboration with MakeMyTrip Foundation and WTTCII. The handbook offers hotels a practical framework for adopting environmentally responsible practices across energy, water, waste, and community impact.
Global Perspective
Simpson highlighted that India is reducing its carbon intensity faster than the global average, and that sustainable tourism is becoming a core focus globally.
Quotes
“Sustainable tourism is a key driver of employment-led development, and the government has acknowledged this by allocating funds for infrastructure and skill development,” said Suman Billa, additional secretary in the Ministry of Tourism. “Informal consultations” have started with states on the top 50 tourist destinations in the country, which will be developed in a “challenge mode” to ensure world-class facilities and connectivity.
Accomplishments and Future Outlook
The first edition of the India Travel & Tourism Sustainability Conclave 2025 was a huge success, marking a significant step towards sustainable tourism in India. With the launch of the Sustainable Hospitality Handbook, hotels can now adopt environmentally responsible practices across various sectors. The future outlook for the Indian tourism sector is promising, with a growth rate of 7 per cent expected. Simpson emphasized that sustainable tourism will continue to play a significant role in shaping the sector’s future. The travel and tourism sector is expected to reach the global average of 10 per cent by 2030, with the government’s support and initiatives in place.