Hotel industry is also inextricably linked to the tourism industry and its growth has added fillip to the hotel industry. And with Conde Nast Traveller ranking India as the fourth most preferred travel destination and Lonely Planet selecting the country among the top five destinations from
167 countries, India has finally made its mark on the world travel map.
The arrival of low cost airlines and the associated price wars have given domestic tourists a host of options. The opening up of the aviation industry in India has led the way for exciting opportunities for the hotel industry as it relies on airlines to transport 80% of international arrivals. Page 6
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Moreover, the government’s decision to substantially upgrade 28 regional airports in smaller towns and privatisation and expansion of Delhi and Mumbai airport will improve the business prospects of hotel industry in India. Substantial investment in tourism infrastructure is essential for Indian hotel industry to achieve its potential. The upgrading of national highway connecting various parts of India has opened new avenues for the development of budget hotels here.
The Government of India’s Incredible India destination campaign and the Atithi Devo Bhavah campaign have also helped the growth of domestic and international tourism and consequently the hotel industry.
In recent years the government has taken several steps to boost travel and tourism, which have benefited the hotel industry in the country. These