The Ministry of Tourism has launched a revamped version of the Incredible India Digital Platform (IIDP), designed as a comprehensive resource for travellers and stakeholders to explore the country’s cultural heritage, natural beauty and diverse attractions.
The upgraded platform offers virtual experiences of destinations across categories such as cultural, heritage, adventure, gastronomical, wellness, art and craft, and rural tourism. It incorporates an AI-powered tool to personalise visitor experiences by providing real-time weather updates, city exploration features and essential travel services.
Since its launch, the platform has recorded around 26 lakh visitors till July 2025. The country registered 294.76 crore domestic tourist visits in 2024, marking a 17.36 per cent rise over 2023.
The Ministry continues to promote sustainable tourism through schemes such as Swadesh Darshan, Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD), and Challenge Based Destination Development (CBDD). These initiatives aim to build capacity among local communities, women and youth, while encouraging entrepreneurship.
Additionally, under the Capacity Building for Service Providers (CBSP) scheme, efforts are being made to enhance skills and employability in the tourism and hospitality sector, with a focus on local communities, women and tribal groups. As part of this, the Ministry has rolled out the Paryatan Mitra and Paryatan Didi initiatives to empower locals, particularly women, in tourism-related roles.
Union Tourism and Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat shared this information in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday.