India's Tourism Triumph: Over 7.24 Million Foreign Visitors in 2023

India's Tourism Triumph: Over 7.24 Million Foreign Visitors in 2023

By Author

Published on December 22, 2023

India's appeal as a global tourist destination continues to rebound post-pandemic, with the country witnessing a significant uptick in foreign tourist arrivals (FTAs). According to the latest government data, India welcomed over 7.24 million foreign tourists till October 2023. This figure marks a notable rise from the previous years, showcasing the country's growing allure among international travelers.

Union Culture Minister G Kishan Reddy shared these statistics in a written response to a query in the Lok Sabha. The data, sourced from the Bureau of Immigration, reflects a steady recovery in the tourism sector. In comparison, foreign tourist arrivals were at 10.56 million in 2018, 10.93 million in 2019, but saw a sharp decline to 2.74 million in 2020 and 1.52 million in 2021 due to the pandemic. The numbers improved to 6.44 million in 2022, with 2023 already surpassing this figure by October.

In addition to these encouraging numbers, Reddy also mentioned government initiatives to further boost tourism. A notable project is the development of infrastructure and facilities at the erstwhile Bharat Gold Mines Limited (Kolar Gold Fields) into a tourist destination, undertaken by the Ministry of Mines in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism.

image

The government's focus isn't solely on new developments. Despite the non-approval of the 'Development of Iconic Tourism Destinations' scheme proposed in the Union Budget for 2019-20, the Ministry of Tourism has sanctioned 76 projects across the country, amounting to Rs 5,294.11 crore. This includes two projects in Maharashtra and one in Odisha.

This surge in foreign tourists is a positive sign for India's tourism sector, indicating a strong recovery and renewed interest in the country's diverse cultural and natural offerings. With continuous efforts to develop and enhance tourist destinations, India is poised to reclaim its status as a leading global tourism hotspot.


Bombay Brasserie Opens Flagship Delhi NCR Outpost at CyberHub, Gurugram

Bombay Brasserie Opens Flagship Delhi NCR Outpost at CyberHub, Gurugram

By Hariharan U

Published on September 20, 2025

Bombay Brasserie, the all-day Indian Bar & Eatery, has officially opened its flagship Delhi NCR outpost at DLF CyberHub, Gurugram. After making a mark in Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Guwahati, and Kolkata, the brand now brings its much-loved mix of food, drinks, and design to the capital region.

Celebrating the vibrant spirit of India with every bite and sip, the restaurant promises to be more than just a dining destination. “Bombay Brasserie is about much more than dining. It’s about discovering India’s regions, ingredients, and stories, whether through a dish that reminds you of childhood or a cocktail that brings back a city. This flagship marks an exciting new chapter for us in Delhi NCR, one where design, food, and storytelling come together in unexpected ways,” said Shikha Nath, Culinary Director at Bombay Brasserie.

At Bombay Brasserie, the menu is a culinary map of India. From foraged hill herbs and forgotten spice blends to street-side staples and heirloom recipes, every dish is retold with a modern twist. The bar, equally inventive, offers drinks inspired by India’s rich history and traditions each cocktail beginning with a story rooted in a snack, a spice, or a memory.

The spatial design of the new outpost adds another dimension to the experience. Blending the bustling energy of a French brasserie with contemporary interpretations of Indian art and artistry, the CyberHub restaurant has been envisioned as a living gallery of modern India bold, layered, and rich with stories.

With its flagship Delhi NCR debut, Bombay Brasserie continues its journey of blending food, design, and storytelling, creating a space that celebrates India in all its flavors and forms.


Ponneri Gymkhana Club to Host Dandiya & Garba Night on 23rd September

Ponneri Gymkhana Club to Host Dandiya & Garba Night on 23rd September

By Hariharan U

Published on September 20, 2025

The festive spirit of Navratri is set to shine brighter this year as Ponneri Gymkhana Club presents its much-awaited Dandiya & Garba Night on 23rd September 2025. Promising an evening filled with beats, colors, and cultural vibrance, the event will bring together the joy of dance, tradition, and community celebration.

The night will be graced by Mr. Chetan Shah, Mrs. Brinda Prashanth Shah, and Mr. C. R. Jangid as Chief Guests. Adding to the grandeur, members from Duchess Club, Bob Cycling Group, and Greenies will join as special invitees, making it a truly inclusive and spirited gathering.

Celebrating two of India’s most loved art forms, Dandiya and Garba, the event will showcase the essence of rhythmic beats, colorful attire, and lively performances that capture the heart of Navratri. Starting from 3 PM to 7 PM, the evening will culminate with a festive dinner, ensuring guests leave with cherished memories.

As the proud media partner, Hospitalitynews is delighted to support this vibrant celebration where tradition meets festivity.

Venue: V.No 76, Perucheri, Ponneri Taluk, Thiruvallur District, Chennai – 601204
For Registrations: +91 9363632829

Mark your calendars and get ready to dance the night away in Ponneri, an evening where every step and every beat celebrates the spirit of Navratri.


Baskin Robbins India Rolls Out GST Reduction for Consumers

Baskin Robbins India Rolls Out GST Reduction for Consumers

By Hariharan U

Published on September 20, 2025

Baskin Robbins India has officially rolled out a GST reduction on its products, with effect from September 22, 2025. The tax rate has dropped from 18% to 5%, and the brand has ensured that the entire benefit is passed directly to customers across its parlours and packaged product range.

Under the revised billing structure, all invoices from distributors to parlour outlets now reflect the lower 5% GST. Consumers will find the updated rate clearly mentioned on both printed and digital receipts. In addition, digital screens at parlours are carrying a live ticker announcing the change, while laminated price lists near billing counters show the reduced prices for tubs, cakes, sticks, and other offerings.

Base prices on parlour display panels remain unchanged since they are exclusive of GST, ensuring transparency for walk-in customers. While some packaged products may still show older GST-inclusive MRPs, customers are charged at the revised lower rates in line with the laminated lists. The company clarified that re-stickering has not been done to avoid risks to product quality caused by thermal shock.

To make the transition seamless, Baskin Robbins has also launched a full “before and after” price list on its official website, while using both digital and traditional platforms to spread awareness.

Commenting on the move, Mohit Khattar, CEO of Graviss Foods, said, “We welcome the government’s GST rationalisation as a timely step that will strengthen consumption across categories. At Baskin Robbins, we are delighted to pass on the full benefit of this reduction to our consumers with immediate effect. We are adopting a multi-channel approach to communicate this change from social media announcements to in-store displays and transparent invoicing  ensuring that both our consumers and trade partners are fully informed. This not only makes the transition seamless but also reflects our commitment to value and trust. As India’s largest ice cream parlour network, we believe this move makes indulgence more accessible and contributes to the larger growth story of India’s consumer economy.”

With this change, Baskin Robbins not only makes indulgence more affordable but also reaffirms its position as a consumer-first brand in India’s growing retail landscape.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.