Tourism has potential to contribute to India's achievement of being third-largest economy: Union Minister
New Delhi: The 7th edition of the India International Hospitality Expo (IHE 2024) was inaugurated by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on Saturday at the India Expo Centre and Mart.
In his keynote address, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said that it was a matter of pride for everyone to be part of IHE 2024 which is being successfully organized for the seventh time and has played a significant role in advancing India’s hospitality industry over the past six years.
IHE not only supports the Indian hospitality sector but also highlights its potential on the global stage. It is more than just an exhibition, it is the epicenter of the hospitality industry, bringing together professionals and associates from the sector to network, exchange ideas, share knowledge, and achieve international success.
Shekhawat further said tourism has the potential to contribute to India’s achievement of being the third-largest economy. India has all the resources to present a world-class tourism sector. Tourism is the largest employment generator after the agriculture sector.
“We are witnessing diversity and new business opportunities in this sector, and this is the perfect platform to learn about them. India can be established as a perennial station and MICE can play a vital role in this direction. The progress and development in this field are crucial, and everyone involved plays a significant role, especially in bridging the gaps,” he said.
Further, Shekhawat said, “Our government is committed to excelling the tourism and hospitality. World Heritage Committee meeting was organised in just 40 days after forming the government recently which was attended by the representatives of 170 countries. India is now coming up as a centre of attraction.” Moreover, he lauds IHE leadership’s efforts to make all possible efforts to make the hospitality industry thrive exponentially.