India observes National Tourism Day on January 25 to raise awareness of travel. The Indian government founded it to increase public understanding of the value of tourism to the country’s economy. This day honors the tourism sector and raises awareness of its role in developing and sustaining travel destinations and local economies. In addition, the day keeps foreign guests who come to learn about India’s rich history, traditional cuisine, and cultural heritage. Interestingly, in 2022, the Government of India’s initiative Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav included a significant portion of the National Tourism Day celebrations.

The purpose of National Tourism Day is to raise awareness of the value of tourism throughout the world. It also brings attention to tourism’s social, political, economic, and cultural services.

India provides a variety of tourism experiences, including business, cultural, natural, heritage, and educational. Significant advancements have also been made in sports, rural living, medicine, cruises, and ecotourism. In India, national policies for the growth and promotion of tourism are formulated by the Ministry of Tourism, the designated authority. The public sector, as well as federal and state agencies, are coordinated by the ministry. India is one of the most sought-after travel destinations for tourists worldwide because of its rich historical, cultural, and geographical diversity.

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 yearly (for example, 7.42 million in 2014). National Tourism Day aims to honour and promote the tourism sector and its role in developing and sustaining travel destinations and local economies. On September 27, 2023, India also participated in the UN World Tourism Day celebrations; India even hosted this event in 2008.

The theme of National Tourism Day 2024

Each year, a new theme serves as the focal point for the celebration of National Tourism Day. “Sustainable Journeys, Timeless Memories” is this year’s theme. It highlights the idea of thoughtful and responsible travel. The central government organizes this day’s seminars, cultural events, and other programs. However, several states host events to advertise tourism in their area.