Union Tourism and Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat delivered a keynote address at the WION World Pulse Summit in New Delhi on Thursday [1, 2].
The address underscores a strategic shift toward using tourism not only for revenue but as a mechanism for national identity and cultural preservation. By linking travel with heritage, the government aims to foster cultural pride while expanding the economic footprint of the tourism sector.
Shekhawat focused on the role of tourism in reconnecting people with India's civilisational heritage, spiritual legacy, and cultural diversity [1, 2]. He said tourism serves as a tool for preserving traditions and fostering a deeper understanding of the country's history.
The minister described tourism as a catalyst for sustainable economic growth [1, 2]. He said the development of cultural corridors and heritage sites helps distribute economic benefits to local communities, creating a model where preservation and profit coexist.
During the summit, the discussion centered on the concept of rediscovering Bharat through tourism [1]. Shekhawat said that by highlighting the spiritual and historical depth of the region, India can attract more global visitors while encouraging domestic travelers to explore their own roots.
The WION World Pulse Summit provided a platform to discuss how cultural power can be leveraged in a modern global economy [2]. Shekhawat said the integration of technology and sustainable practices is essential to ensure that the influx of tourists does not degrade the very heritage sites they come to visit.
“Tourism can reconnect people with India's civilisational heritage, cultural diversity, and spiritual legacy”
The emphasis on 'civilisational heritage' suggests a policy direction where tourism is used as a vehicle for soft power and nationalistic pride. By framing tourism as a 'return to roots,' the Indian government is attempting to merge economic development with a cultural revival, potentially shifting the focus of infrastructure investment toward spiritual and historical landmarks to stimulate local economies.
