Ministry eyes 10 million tourist arrivals

The profile of tourist arrivals in the country is changing very fast. Indian destinations are gaining popularity not only in traditional markets but also in new markets like Latin America and West Africa. To cope with the trend, the government is taking up number of initiatives to upgrade tourism infrastructure and is hopeful to touch the 10-million marks of arrivals within few years.

The government plans to soon take up the issues of according infrastructure status to hotel industry for ensuring all possible incentives for creating more accommodation. The issue of visa on arrivals and other options like multiple visa and long-term visa would also be taken up by the ministry to facilitate the flow of tourists in the country.

Other steps like improvement of the connectivity through air, rail and roads for unexplored destinations, creating of budget accommodations in smaller towns and railway land are also being planned by the ministry.

With integrated tourism projects incorporating adventure tourism, eco-tourism and Buddhist circuit, India could very soon become a favourite destination for 365 days.