Northeast India Sees Record-Breaking 125 Lakh Tourists in 2023: Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat

The Northeast region of India has witnessed remarkable growth in domestic tourism, with over 125 lakh visitors in 2023, a substantial increase from 70 lakh in 2014. This achievement was highlighted by Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat during the inauguration of the 12th International Tourism Mart (ITM) for the Northeast Region, held in Kaziranga.

The minister attributed this growth to significant infrastructural advancements, including better transportation, enhanced tourism amenities, and the development of new attractions. He noted that this surge in tourism has also led to a 2.5% increase in tourist accommodation, benefiting local economies.

In his address, Shekhawat celebrated the Northeast's cultural richness, natural beauty, and biodiversity. He emphasized its diverse cuisine, traditional crafts, and ecological wealth, stating that domestic tourism in India has grown rapidly in the post-COVID era, surpassing global trends. He pointed out that despite challenges following the pandemic, the number of visitors to the Northeast has more than doubled over the past decade.

The minister also discussed the broader socioeconomic transformation brought about by government initiatives, which have improved the lives of over 250 million people in the last ten years. He attributed the expanding middle class and India’s increasing global recognition as key drivers of the tourism sector's potential.

Key government schemes such as Swadesh Darshan and PRASHAD have played a pivotal role in developing sustainable tourism destinations. Under Swadesh Darshan 1.0, 16 projects in the region received funding of Rs 1,309 crore, while Swadesh Darshan 2.0 identified 16 additional destinations for development. Similarly, the PRASHAD scheme has sanctioned eight projects in the region, with a total investment of Rs 256 crore. Notably, Assam’s Kamakhya Temple, enhanced under the PRASHAD scheme, emerged as a leading destination, attracting 11 lakh visitors in 2022-23.

During the event, Arvind Singh, Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, highlighted the conference's success in raising awareness about various government initiatives for the Northeast's development.

Shekhawat also emphasised the importance of hosting the ITM in Kaziranga, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of Kaziranga National Park's designation as a national park. Over the past decade, the park's area has expanded from 400 sq km to 1,300 sq km. He remarked that this year’s ITM has provided an opportunity for participants from across the country and the globe to explore the Northeast's diverse and unique offerings.