National Tourism Day 2025: Moving Towards Sustainable Tourism

• Written by Mudit Handa

  Reviewed by Akhil Pillai

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Tourism is one of India’s most significant economic sectors. According to the Ministry of Tourism, in 2024, it generated INR 25,010 Crore in foreign exchange and welcomed over 8.24 lakh foreign tourists. 

Did you know India has a special day dedicated to tourism?

Celebrated annually on 25 January, National Tourism Day underscores the significance of tourism for India's economic landscape and rich cultural heritage. Additionally, it spotlights the industry's potential to generate employment opportunities and foster sustainable development.

What is the Significance of National Tourism Day?

National Tourism Day provides an opportunity to celebrate India's abundant tourism potential and champion responsible tourism practices. By embracing accountable and sustainable tourism practices, India can ensure that its tourism industry benefits visitors and local communities, safeguarding and preserving its unique cultural and natural heritage for prosperity.

What is the History of National Tourism Day?

National Tourism Day commemorates the establishment of the Tourist Traffic Committee on 25 January 1948, an ad hoc government dedicated to promoting tourism within India.

The committee’s work paved the way for establishing the India Tourism Development Corporation in 1966. Subsequently, in 1967, the Government of India formed the Ministry of Tourism, appointing Dr Karan Singh as India’s inaugural Tourist Minister. The Ministry of Tourism was entrusted with supervising the affairs and development of the Indian tourism industry. As a part of its tourism promotion initiative, the Tourism Ministry began celebrating National Tourism Day to observe the formation of the Tourist Traffic Committee. 

What Will be the Theme for National Tourism Day 2025?

The theme for National Tourism Day 2025 is “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation”. This year, National Tourism Day aims to educate the general public about the importance of sustainable and responsible tourism. It will include the following key aspects 

• Minimising negative social, economic, and environmental impacts; 
• Generating economic benefits for the locals; and 
• Enhancing the well-being of host communities.  

What is the Goal of National Tourism Day?

The goal of National Tourism Day is to raise awareness among the public regarding the following aspects of Indian Tourism:

Significance of Indian Tourism: India's rich cultural diversity, historical monuments, and natural beauty make it a sought-after destination. Tourism bolsters the country's economy by increasing foreign exchange earnings, creating employment, and developing infrastructure.

Responsible Tourism: Responsible Tourism focuses on minimising negative social, economic, and environmental impacts while generating substantial economic benefits for local people and enhancing the well-being of host communities. It emphasises respect for local cultures, traditions, and environments.

Sustainable Tourism: Responsible tourism can significantly improve India's tourism industry by promoting sustainable practices, empowering local communities, and preserving the country's natural and cultural heritage.

What are the Benefits of Responsible Tourism?

The practice of responsible tourism serves various purposes. Here are some of the key benefits of responsible tourism:

Economic Benefits: Responsible tourism can help generate employment for the local communities of India, reduce poverty, and boost economic development.

Social Benefits: One of the benefits of responsible tourism is that it helps preserve local cultures and traditions. It fosters mutual understanding and promotes respect between the tourists and the host communities.

Environmental Benefits: Eco-friendly tourism is one key aspect of responsible tourism. This aspect minimises adverse ecological impacts like pollution, waste, and habitat destruction. It also promotes environmental conservation and sustainable use of natural resources.

What Should We Do on National Tourism Day?

National Tourism Day is a day to propagate awareness about the importance of Indian tourism. Thus, on National Tourism Day, one could participate in activities that promote and support tourism, such as:

• Visiting a local tourist attraction.
• Learning about the history and culture of your region
• Sharing your travel experiences on social media
• Supporting local businesses that rely on tourism
• Practicing responsible tourism.

Responsible tourism, however,  encompasses more than promoting healthy and eco-friendly practices. It also emphasises travelling with personal and financial safety. 

Purchasing travel insurance before your trip is a prudent way to ensure personal and financial safety while travelling abroad.

Safeguard your Trip Against all Emergencies with Travel Insurance

Safety is a primary concern when you plan your trip abroad. In an emergency, medical and other expenses may compel you to put all your savings at stake. However, if you have a travel insurance policy, the trip coverage will be of great help in times of crisis. Travel insurance can cover various kinds of unforeseen medical expenses that you may suffer in case of an accident or a health emergency during your trip. It includes hospitalisation expenses, ambulance costs, and emergency assistance. Besides, a comprehensive travel insurance plan can also cover your personal liability. Suppose you are held legally responsible for causing injury or damage to someone’s property during your journey abroad. In that case, the travel insurance plan will cover the costs you incur while paying for the damages.

Disclaimer: Verifying the policy details and coverage with the official policy documents is crucial. Also, kindly consult a professional medical expert to verify the details of health concerns.