Tshering Bhutia, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation & Industries, Sikkim, highlighted the need for policies that attract investment, simplify business and improve air connectivity in the Northeast. Urging speedy resolution of issues delaying Pakyong Airport’s full operations, he reaffirmed the state’s commitment to work with the Centre to build a stronger aviation network.

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ICRA projects the Indian aviation industry to post net losses of ₹95–105 billion in FY2026, higher than the estimated ₹55 billion in FY2025. The rise is attributed to slower passenger traffic growth amid increased aircraft deliveries. Losses, however, remain far below FY2022 and FY2023 levels. 

S Jaishankar, External Affairs Minister, Government of India, identified Ayush therapies, yoga and ‘Heal in India’ as expanding tourism draws. “Wellness attractions and the mainstreaming of Ayush have been continuously highlighted,” he said, urging collaboration between tour operators and wellness providers to create health-plus-culture packages for global travellers. 

Rammohan Naidu Kinjarapu, Minister for Civil Aviation stressed stronger Centre-State-Industry collaboration to accelerate aviation growth in Eastern India. Highlighting the region’s industrial strength, tourism potential, coastal access and tier II city aspirations, he said aviation is no longer a luxury but a key enabler of Viksit Bharat @2047, assuring central support. 

Vijaya Jadhav, Director, Jharkhand Tourism, said the state is focusing on customised packages and familiarisation trips to Netarhat, Betla National Park, Dalma, Jamshedpur and tribal villages around Ghatshila. “We want tour operators to know our products, sell them effectively and showcase Jharkhand’s unique experiences to travellers,” she emphasised.    

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Chander Mansharamani, Vice Chairman, ICPB, stressed that India needs a clear incentive policy to lure international conferences. “Unless you have a policy on what incentive you can offer, India cannot compete globally,” he warned. Citing global practices such as rebates and hosted events, he urged immediate adoption to position India as a serious MICE contender.  

India welcomed a record 9.95 million foreign tourists in 2024, driving earnings of ₹2.93 lakh crore from tourism. The sector’s share in GDP rose to 5.22%, supporting 84.6 million jobs. The US, Bangladesh and UK were the biggest source markets, Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat informed Lok Sabha.