Uttar Pradesh Records Over 121 Crore Tourists in First Half of 2025, Boosting Economic Growth

Uttar Pradesh welcomed over 12.1 billion tourists from January to June 2025, significantly advancing its ambition to become a one-trillion-dollar economy. This data was revealed during a stakeholders' workshop by the state tourism department at Yojana Bhawan, part of the Viksit Uttar Pradesh @2047 initiative. Officials have crafted a plan to transform the state into a developed region by 2047, with tourism as a key focus.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's advisor, Awanish Awasthi, along with Principal Secretary Tourism Amrit Abhijat and Tourism Director General Rajesh Kumar, addressed the workshop attendees. They discussed policy reforms, investment opportunities, and departmental priorities. Senior officials from planning, Ayush, culture departments, and the State Transformation Commission also participated in the event.

Tourism as a Catalyst for Economic Growth

Awasthi emphasised that tourism will be crucial in transforming Uttar Pradesh into a developed state. "Tourism is an evergreen sector. Uttar Pradesh ranks first in domestic tourism and fourth in foreign tourist arrivals. With a month still to go, 2025 is heading towards a new record," he stated, urging stakeholders to collaborate effectively.

Principal Secretary Abhijat highlighted the state's significant increase in tourist numbers, rising from 22 crore in 2015 to 65 crore in 2024, excluding Mahakumbh visitors. The government is prioritising eco-friendly tourism and developing key destinations like Mathura, where plans for a new museum are underway.

Infrastructure and Tourism Development

Kumar noted that 12 tourist circuits have been established, with efforts to promote yoga and wellness tourism. The state's expanding expressway network, modern airports, and upgraded railway stations, including Vande Bharat corridors, have made travel more convenient for tourists.

State Transformation Commission CEO Manoj Kumar Singh stressed the importance of strengthening inbound tourism and promoting wellness tourism similar to Kerala's model. He also highlighted the need for cleanliness around tourist sites.

Support from Niti Aayog and Tour Package Redesign

Planning Principal Secretary Alok Kumar mentioned that Niti Aayog is fully supporting the 2047 development plan. He suggested raising awareness about Sonbhadra's fossil park and designing at least three-day tour packages for visitors.

Uttar Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation Ltd (UPSTDC) Managing Director Ashish Kumar stated that the corporation is redesigning tour packages to encourage longer stays and cultural activities while optimising infrastructure use.

Eco-Tourism Initiatives

Eco-tourism Director Pushp Kumar outlined initiatives in wetland restoration, wildlife corridors, and nature-based tourism. Dudhwa, Pilibhit, and Katarniaghat were identified as model sites for these efforts.

The state's commitment to enhancing its tourism sector is evident through these comprehensive plans and initiatives. By focusing on infrastructure improvements and sustainable practices, Uttar Pradesh aims to attract more visitors while boosting its economy.

With inputs from PTI