The Tivoli Hotel met the Ministry of Tourism’s five-star criteria through its accommodation quality, guest facilities, safety and hygiene standards, dining options, professionally trained staff, and its ability to deliver guest experiences.

Although there was a slight dip to 13,21,169 in 2023, the state recovered again with 15,40,421 domestic tourists in 2024 and has already recorded 12,18,372 visitors till October 2025. For 2025, the govt has logged 46,591 foreign travellers till September and further growth is expected ahead.

He succeeds V. Vidyavathi, IAS (1991 batch), who has been moved to take charge as Secretary of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities.

During the ongoing 13th ITM, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu's proposal for regional convergence and joint promotion approach, supported by transformative infrastructure projects across the region, signalled a positive omen.

The return of this flagship event to the northeastern state represents a strategic pivot in India's ambitious plan to transform the region into a unified, world-class tourism circuit. With infrastructure and connectivity strengthening, tourism seeing an upsurge, over INR 3,000 cr invested in 65 projects, the Ministry of Tourism is betting big on this year's event.

Currently being held in Udaipur, this conference by MoT, aims to foster greater policy convergence in implementing the tourism transformation agenda, ensuring that every region contributes to building a globally competitive and sustainable tourism ecosystem for a Viksit Bharat.

Additionally, the Ministry released the 66th edition of the India Tourism Data Compendium, marking record international and domestic arrivals, employment generation, and economic contributions. India now ranks 20th globally in international tourist arrivals and continues strengthening its tourism infrastructure. These outcomes were a part of Ministry’s celebration of World Tourism Day 2025.

As per an official notice, his tenure at the ministry will be of five years.

Lower taxes to support tourists and craftsmen. The new GST rates will make hotel stays more affordable for middle-class and budget travellers and will boost weekend travel, pilgrimage circuits, heritage tourism, and eco-tourism. For transport, it will help bring down ticket fares, especially in semi-urban and rural routes.

To develop iconic tourist centres, the govt. of India gave out 100% central funding under SACSI. Implementation of projects under the scheme is expected to boost local economy and creating opportunities for local artisans and community.