Ministry of Tourism

Tourism Must Create Local Opportunity Beyond Popular Destinations, Says Gajendra Singh Shekhawat

Union Tourism and Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said tourism development must move beyond a narrow focus on marquee destinations and instead generate livelihood opportunities for local communities. His remarks underscore a policy shift toward more inclusive, place-based tourism growth that can spread economic gains across smaller towns, cultural circuits and rural regions. The minister’s comments come as India seeks to balance rising visitor demand with the need for sustainable development, local participation and better distribution of tourism-led income.