India’s Tourism Sector to Add 61 Lakh Jobs by 2034, Spending Set to Rise 1.2 Times: Report

New Delhi: India’s tourism and hospitality sector is poised for a major leap, with an estimated 61 lakh new jobs to be created by 2034 and spending in the sector expected to increase by 1.2 times, according to a whitepaper released by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and EY. The report, unveiled at the 18th Annual CII Tourism Summit, underscores the sector’s growing significance as a driver of India’s economic growth.

Currently contributing 8% to the nation’s total employment, the sector is projected to expand rapidly, driven by domestic tourism and the rising demand for skilled professionals. The report, titled “Employment Landscape in Tourism and Hospitality in India,” highlights the industry’s post-pandemic resilience and its ability to adapt to evolving challenges.

Of the 61 lakh new jobs, 46 lakh roles will be created for men and 15 lakh for women, emphasizing the potential for gender inclusion and workforce diversification. The report calls for specialised skills in areas such as digital marketing, sustainable tourism, and customer service to cater to growing demand. It also advocates innovative approaches like gamified learning for professional development, clear career advancement pathways through industry collaborations, and a standardised skills framework under the Ministry of Tourism.

To further boost inclusivity and innovation, the report urges greater workforce participation by women and marginalised communities. It also proposes the creation of a central tourism and hospitality body to streamline governance, improve infrastructure, and enhance operational efficiency.

Looking ahead, the industry will require an additional 61.31 lakh workers by 2036-37 to meet increasing tourism demands. Policy interventions such as Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) schemes, targeted subsidies, and granting the sector industry status are recommended to accelerate growth.

The report introduces a Tourism Employment Index (TEI) to monitor employment trends and highlights the role of the gig economy in addressing seasonal workforce needs. By integrating Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and exploring new opportunities like medical tourism and community-driven programs, the sector is positioned to become a global leader in tourism and hospitality.

India’s tourism industry is not just bouncing back from the pandemic but is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s economic future, offering millions of jobs and driving inclusive growth across the country.