Page 39 - Connect 2024-25

Business Tourism in India:
A Growing Powerhouse

Ishita Mishra, PGDM II

India, with its rich cultural legacy, various landscapes,
and growing economy, has emerged as a key player in
the global tourist sector. While leisure travel has always
been an important component of India’s attractiveness,
a new area is gaining popularity: business tourism. As
the country continues establishing itself as a worldwide
economic powerhouse, corporate tourism is becoming
an increasingly important component of its tourist
industry. This article examines the characteristics of
business travel in India, including its growth, and Asia’s largest conference centres,
economic effect. demonstrates India’s ambition to
become a worldwide MICE destination.
The Growth of Business Tourism in India
Business tourism, often known as MICE (Meetings,
Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), is a fast- The Effects of Business Travel on the
growing industry in India. The country’s strategic position, Economy
combined with its flourishing sectors, has made it a The Indian economy has been significantly impacted
popular choice for international business and corporate by the rise of corporate tourism. It has aided in the
gatherings. India’s largest cities, including Mumbai, creation of jobs in adjacent businesses including
Delhi, Bangalore, and Hyderabad, have become hubs hospitality, transportation, and event planning in
for international conferences, trade exhibitions, and addition to the tourist industry. High-end tourists drawn
business gatherings. by business travel frequently look for upscale services,
Several reasons contribute to the growth of business which boosts earnings for nearby hotels, eateries, and
travel in India. For starters, the Indian economy’s other companies.
liberalization and the government’s proactive measures Additionally, business travel affects the economy
to seek foreign direct investment have resulted in an indirectly. It frequently results in partnerships, financial
influx of multinational enterprises. This has inevitably possibilities, and information transfer that help other
resulted in a rise in the number of business travellers to industries. International conferences and exhibits give
India. Indian companies a stage to present their goods and
Second, India’s infrastructure has improved significantly services to a worldwide clientele, promoting commercial
in recent years. The development of world-class airports, connections and creating avenues for export growth.
the growth of metro networks in major cities, and the
construction of contemporary conference centres have all Government Initiatives and Support
contributed significantly to India’s appeal as a business Recognizing the potential of business tourism, the
travel destination. For example, the India International Indian government has launched several programs to
Conference and Expo Centre (IICC) in Delhi, one of support it. To promote India as a top MICE destination,
the Ministry of Tourism has started many programs

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