At the Federation of Associations in Indian Tourism & Hospitality (FAITH) Conclave 2025, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar emphasized the importance of trade, tourism, and technology in bolstering India’s international ties.
He restated the “3T framework”—Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s strategy framework—which uses these three areas as crucial pillars to evaluate and strengthen India’s ties with other countries.
In order to increase India’s cultural and diplomatic influence, PM Modi encourages the Indian diaspora living outside to bring their friends with them on future trips to the nation.
Jaishankar emphasized the significant influence of tourism that goes beyond traditional diplomacy. According to him, tourism is the primary link between nations, greatly affecting how they view one another and having a direct impact on India’s reputation abroad. He pointed out that more effectively than any diplomatic avenue, tourism promotes understanding and creates goodwill among nations.
With recent additions like the Moidams of Assam and the Maratha Military Landscape, the Minister emphasized how India’s persistent efforts to showcase its rich legacy and culture have led to a continual accession of monuments to the UNESCO World legacy list. This cultural exposure is a component of India’s broader economic and diplomatic outreach.
Jaishankar emphasized the value of independence (Atmanirbharta) in the face of global uncertainty by tying tourism to economic resilience. He pointed out that India’s strength is its people and their faith in themselves, which keeps the nation going through difficult times and supports the idea of a developed India (Viksit Bharat).
By strengthening domestic demand and infrastructure, he helped India navigate global volatility by tying cultural diplomacy to national resilience.
The Minister also emphasized how India’s travel infrastructure has advanced, greatly improving the traveler experience. The introduction of e-visas has made travel abroad easier, and within the past ten years, the number of airports has increased.
Transformative improvements to highways and railroads have increased connectivity and improved the experience of travel. By making domestic air travel more accessible, programs like the UDAN initiative have improved India’s standing as a travel destination.
Another important area of focus was India’s rising popularity as a destination for medical tourism. The primary AYUSH streaming and International Yoga Day marketing are helping the “Heal in India” campaign gain international attention and draw more overseas patients. Additionally, India’s global cultural influence is expected to grow due to the increase in international students and wellness tourism.
Jaishankar emphasized that tourism helps to foster national pride and unity in addition to stimulating the economy by generating jobs and business possibilities.
He commended the Indian tourism industry for its contribution to promoting Brand India globally, particularly during uncertain times.
In his reflection on India’s G20 presidency, the Minister emphasized how it strengthened India’s international reputation and diplomatic connections by showcasing each state’s history and culture to world leaders.
Dr. Jaishankar explained how trade, tourism, and technology are interconnected and support India’s international influence.
