Religious tourism is poised to be a major driver of employment in India over the next few years, according to Sachin Alug, CEO of NLB Services, a global technology and digital talent solutions provider. Alug predicts that religious tourism will create up to 2 lakh job opportunities in the next 4-5 years. This sector is expected to grow at an annual rate of over 16% between 2023 and 2030, reflecting its significant potential.
A Booming Sector
Religious tourism currently accounts for 60% of domestic tourism in India. With a projected revenue of USD 60 billion by 2028, the sector is set to open numerous employment avenues for both temporary and permanent workers. Alug highlighted the increasing popularity of religious travel post-COVID, with overnight journeys for pilgrimages rising and a 14% increase in donations observed in 2021-2022.
Impact of Key Religious Sites
The recent inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya is expected to further boost religious tourism. Alug estimates that the Ram Mandir alone could generate around 25,000 jobs across various roles, including chefs, front desk managers, housekeeping staff, and tour guides. This influx of visitors to significant religious sites is not just creating jobs but also fostering economic growth in related sectors.
Opportunities for Entrepreneurs
Religious tourism is also expected to bolster opportunities for entrepreneurship in various industries. These include food services, consumer goods, hospitality, transportation, religious materials, handicrafts, local textiles, logistics, warehousing, and packaging. Alug anticipates a 6-8% rise in new enterprises catering specifically to religious tourists across the country.
Economic Contributions
According to data from the Ministry of Tourism, 1,439 million people embarked on religious tourism in 2022, generating Rs 1.34 lakh crore in revenue. This substantial contribution to the economy underscores the importance of religious tourism in India’s overall tourism landscape.
Growth in Non-Metro Cities
Several small towns and non-metro cities in states such as Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Odisha are witnessing a significant influx of tourists. This trend highlights the potential for regional economic development through religious tourism. These destinations are not only attracting pilgrims but also encouraging investment in local infrastructure and services.
Conclusion
The growth of religious tourism in India presents a significant opportunity for job creation and economic development. As the sector continues to expand, it will play a crucial role in supporting various industries and fostering entrepreneurship. The projected increase in employment and new enterprises catering to religious tourists underscores the importance of this sector in India’s economic future.
