Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat today said India is committed to building globally competitive, sustainable and community-centric tourism destinations under Vision 2047. Addressing the UN Tourism Minister’s Summit at ITB Berlin 2026, the Minister shared India’s roadmap for responsible and inclusive growth in the tourism sector. He said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India’s tourism strategy is anchored in the guiding principle of Growth with Responsibility. Mr Shekhawat said that over the past decade, the government has adopted a balanced approach by developing world-class infrastructure while safeguarding the country’s rich heritage and fragile ecosystems. He noted that the number of operational airports has increased from 74 to over 160, significantly improving connectivity to remote and emerging destinations. He added that the UDAN scheme has democratised regional air connectivity, while modern rail services such as the Vande Bharat Express are strengthening integrated tourism circuits across the country. He reaffirmed that India stands ready to work with the global community to ensure tourism remains a force for resilience, inclusion and shared prosperity. Mr Shekhawat also highlighted strategic investments under the Swadesh Darshan and PRASHAD schemes. He added that these initiatives are designed to benefit local communities alongside visitors.