Attributed to Mr. M.P. Bezbaruah, Secretary General, Hotel Association of India

The year 2024 brought significant transformation to India’s hospitality sector, characterized by remarkable recovery and robust growth. A notable increase in domestic tourism drove high demand for hotels, resorts, and alternative accommodations. Foreign tourist arrivals were less than expected, but by the end of the year, it was picking up. Key trends, like concern n for sustainability, technological advancements, and customized guest experiences, reshaped the sector. The rising demand for sustainable and eco-conscious stays and India’s vast cultural and natural offerings have reaffirmed its status as a premier destination for leisure and business travel. The industry eagerly awaits the Year 2025, when the government will introduce some energetic and innovative policy measures. Industry benefits and Infrastructure status are the two prime expectations. Most importantly, tourism, a sector that drives significant employment and fosters inclusive growth, deserves its rightful place in national economic planning—as a critical pillar of India’s development strategy. The industry hopes that 2025 will see the adoption of the much-awaited Tourism Policy indicating, among others, the strategy on sustainable tourism, destination development and professional management of destinations, creating a mechanism for systemic and continuous interaction with the private sector and infrastructure development.