Question : Ranking of India on Tourist Map

(a) whether ranking of India has come down very low on the world tourism map as per a survey conducted recently;
(b) if so, the details thereof along with the present ranking of India on the world tourism map;
(c) the names of the Asian countries placed higher in ranking than India;
(d) the reasons for our lagging behind despite having rich cultural heritage and historical places in the country; and
(e) the policy/efforts being made by the Government for improving our ranking on the world tourism map in the next two three years?

MINISTER OF STATE FOR TOURISM (INDEPENDENT CHARGE)
(SHRI K. J. ALPHONS)

(a) and (b): As per the Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Index (TTCI) of World Economic Forum (WEF), India has been ranked 40th in 2017 as compared to 52nd in 2015 and 65th in 2013.

(c): Names of Asian countries higher in ranking than India in TTCI are given in Annexure.

(d): In fact, India’s rank in TTCI of World Economic Forum has improved from 65th in 2013 to 40th in 2017.


(e): Government of India has taken various steps to boost tourism in the country, which inter-alia include the following:

i. E- Visa facility extended to citizens of 163 countries.
ii. The Incredible India 2.0 campaign launched with market specific promotional plans and content creation.
iii. 24x7 Toll Free Multi-Lingual Tourist Helpline 1800111363 launched in 12 International Languages including Hindi and English.
iv. Providing Central Financial Assistance (CFA) to State Governments/Union Territory Administrations for development and promotion of tourism.
v. Identification, diversification, development and promotion of Niche products like Cruise, Adventure, Medical, Wellness, Golf, Polo, Eco, Film and Meeting Incentives Conference and Exhibition (MICE).
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