India has updated its international tourist arrivals target to 100 million by the year 2047, despite experiencing a decline to 9.2 million foreign tourists in 2025. This figure represents a 9.4% decrease from 2024 and is 17% below the pre-pandemic peak of 10.9 million arrivals. The drop marks the second consecutive year of declines. A report from the PHD Chamber of Commerce projects that inbound tourism may fall further by 15-20% in 2026 due to the Iran War severing key air corridors used by long-haul travelers to India.
Government Outlook and Strategic Pillars
Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat announced the revised target during the World
Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) summit in Malta. He emphasized the goal of rising from 9.2 million international arrivals in 2025 to 100 million by 2047. Shekhawat outlined four essential components—political will, public spending, partnership, and people’s participation—as crucial to achieving the target.
Growth Challenges and Industry Commentary
Reaching 100 million arrivals by 2047 requires an average annual growth rate of 12% or higher. This target contrasts with the current trend of declining international arrivals over the past two years. Industry analysis highlights the need for a concrete action plan to support this ambitious growth, noting the risks of setting targets without clear implementation strategies.
The disruption of air routes caused by the Iran War adds to the challenges facing inbound tourism in India in the near term.
