The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has presented Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat with its Global Champion Award, recognising his leadership in supporting the growth, competitiveness and long-term development of India’s tourism sector. The award was presented during WTTC’s 26th Global Summit in Malta, attended by more than 1,000 delegates, including over 200 leading tourism CEOs and government representatives.
The Global Champion Award recognises public leaders whose policies and initiatives strengthen the tourism industry’s growth, global visibility and competitiveness while encouraging collaboration between governments and the private sector. India’s expanding economy, rising consumer spending, infrastructure investment and growing middle class have helped establish the country as one of the world’s most dynamic travel and tourism markets.
According to WTTC’s latest Economic Impact Research, the sector contributed USD 263.6 billion to India’s economy in 2025, supporting 46.2 million jobs nationwide. Its contribution is forecast to rise by 8.5% in 2026 to USD 286.1 billion, with employment expected to reach 48.1 million.
Domestic tourism remains a major driver of this growth. WTTC research shows domestic visitor spending reached USD 203 billion in 2025, accounting for 86% of India’s total travel and tourism expenditure. The country also recorded more than six billion domestic trips, highlighting the scale and resilience of its domestic market.
Growing international demand and continued investment are further strengthening India’s tourism outlook. WTTC forecasts that the sector’s contribution to the Indian economy could almost double over the next decade, reaching USD 527 billion by 2036. Continued cooperation between the government and private sector will be important to achieving this growth and expanding the industry’s economic benefits.
Gloria Guevara, President and CEO of WTTC, said India’s tourism growth was being driven by both rising international demand and the strength of its domestic market. She described Shekhawat as a strong advocate for the sector and public-private collaboration, adding that the award recognised his commitment to tourism as a driver of economic growth, investment, employment and opportunities for communities across India.
