Maharashtra sees foreign tourist arrivals more than double in three years.
In order to advertise the nation’s numerous travel locations and products, the Ministry of Tourism markets India as a comprehensive travel destination. Participation in international travel trade shows, fairs, and events; familiarisation (FAM) tours for foreign tour operators, media, and influencers; tourism roadshows; India food festivals; interaction with regional tour operators and other industry stakeholders; and social media promotion are some of the ways the promotion is carried out. These initiatives are carried out in collaboration with industry, Indian Missions, and State Governments and Union Territory Administrations, particularly the Maharashtra State Government.
Additionally, the Ministry offers financial assistance in consultation with the relevant State Governments/UT Administrations through its programs of “Swadesh Darshan (SD),” “Swadesh Darshan (SD2.0),” “Challenge Based Destination Development (CBDD),” a sub-scheme of the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme, “Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI),” and “Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD)” in order to develop the nation’s tourism infrastructure.
Over the past three years, Maharashtra has seen 1.512 million international visitors in 2022, 3.388 million in 2023, and 3.705 million in 2024.
With 17.69% of all international visitor trips to India in 2024, Maharashtra had the largest proportion.
To discuss matters pertaining to the growth and promotion of tourism in the nation, the Ministry frequently convenes consultation sessions with the tourism departments of State Governments and Union Territory Administrations, including Maharashtra.
On February 5, 2026, Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat provided this information in a written response to the Rajya Sabha.
