Friday, August 23, 2024 India’s tourism sector is experiencing a mixed recovery as the world gradually emerges from the shadow of the Covid-19 pandemic. While there has been a slight uptick in foreign tourist arrivals (FTAs) in 2024, the numbers are still far from the robust figures seen before the pandemic. According to recent statistics, India recorded 4,778,374 foreign travellers in the first half of 2024, showing a modest increase from 4,380,239 during the same period in 2023.
However, this still represents a significant decline compared to 5,296,025 in 2019, reflecting a nearly 10% drop from pre-pandemic levels. The figures paint a picture of a tourism sector that is yet to regain its full momentum. Although the 2024 numbers represent progress, they are still a stark reminder of the challenges the sector faces.
The ongoing global recovery from the pandemic, coupled with changing travel patterns and increasing competition from neighboring countries, has contributed to the sluggish recovery of foreign tourist arrivals in India. One of the key drivers behind this slow recovery is the competition India faces from other countries in the region. Nations such as Vietnam, Thailand, and Sri Lanka have positioned themselves as attractive alternatives to India, offering more affordable travel options and often being perceived as cleaner and more tourist-friendly destinations.
These countries have also implemented favorable visa policies, including visa-free entry for Indian touri.