16 Nov, 2021

Tourism is one of the greatest contributors to economy and foreign exchange reserve. Like all over the world, the tourism in India is badly affected by Covid 19. Millions of people who are directly or indirectly associated with Tourism sector were rendered jobless.  In order to revive the tourism sector, the Indian government is providing free visas to 5 lakh tourists visiting India. This will help to revive tourism sector especially Inbound tourism, that is battered by Covid-19. Once the visa issuance for international travel is restarted, the first five lakh tourists will be issued visas free of charge. The total financial implication of this measure would be ₹100 crore. The scheme would be applicable till March 31, 2022, or till 5 lakh visas are issued, whichever is earlier. This will definitely incentivise short-term tourists visiting India.