Prabuddha Sen, COO (South Asia), VFS Global, said, “We are expecting to surpass pre-pandemic visa applications calendar year end. There has been a robust rebound in outbound travel sentiments. Despite initial scepticism, the level of bounce back has resulted in a demand-supply gap”.  

Madhavan Menon, Executive Chairman, Thomas Cook Ltd believes that the tourism industry is facing big shifts post Covid. He said, “Travellers are seeking more experiential and immersive experiences, such as cultural tours, and adventure sports”.   

The Videc’s current study highlighted that short-haul international routes connecting India with Middle East, South Asia and Southeast Asia, accounts for roughly 80 per cent of international flown passengers in FY23. It also stated that Middle East sees highest international traffic from India.     

According to VIDEC’s latest study, air is the largest travel category, accounting for slightly less than half of the total India travel market or ₹1,743 billion ($22B) in FY23. The domestic air GBV is ₹781 billion ($9.8B) in FY23, 30% above its pre-pandemic levels. 

 Meghalaya CM Conrad K. Sangma said that the government plans to promote fruit wine industry in the state. “This entire activity that we are trying to do, it links tourism, agriculture, and job creation. It has the potential to unlock a vast capacity that is lying dormant,” he said.

Mastercard and Invest India recently announced the launch of priceless.com programme in India. Addressing the event, Nivruti Rai, Managing Director & CEO, Invest India said, “Promoting tourism with technology can open new experiences and create 137 million additional jobs by 2030.”

Datuk Musa, DDG of Promotion for Malaysia said, “Incentives are offered to travel agents to organize charter flights from India to Malaysia, targeting MICE segments. With an aim to attract more tourists, not only via commercial flights but also specially arranged charters.”

UNWTO has identified investments as one of the key priorities for tourism’s recovery and future growth and development. For World Tourism Day 2023, UNWTO highlights the need for more and better-targeted investments for people, for planet and for prosperity.

Fly Bharathi Aviations and Aeronautics is ready to kickstart its aviation journey in the Indian skies. The company has signed an MoU with UK- based SRAM and MRAM Group for an investment worth $1.8 billion. The fund will be utilised for the expansion of both domestic and international aviation business. 

Chetan Juneja, Director, Tamarind Global said, “People are choosing international destinations over domestic for big corporate events due to the challenge of finding sufficient hotel inventory. Whereas, opting for international destinations provide more hotel options.”