In a significant move to modernize the digital infrastructure of the Indian travel sector, a high-level interactive meeting was recently convened by the newly appointed Tourism Secretary, Dr. Stivatsa Krishna. This gathering brought together various state and UT tourism secretaries alongside prominent trade associations and industry chambers in the national capital. The primary focus of this assembly was directed toward the proposed revamping of the e-Tourist Visa portal and the integration of a tourism stack by the ONDC (Open Network for Digital Commerce). The discussion aimed to address longstanding challenges in the e-Visa regime while streamlining access to ticketed monuments and localized homestays across the country.
Technological Overhaul of the E-Visa Portal
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) played a pivotal role in the proceedings by presenting a comprehensive proposal for the complete reconstruction of the existing e-Tourist Visa platform. It was observed that the current system has been the subject of numerous complaints from both international travelers and domestic travel trade associations. Issues such as significant processing delays, restricted language options, and navigation difficulties were highlighted as primary pain points. Notably, the urgency of this overhaul was underscored by a social media post from an American investor that gained viral status, in which the existing platform was described in highly critical terms regarding its functionality and user experience.
In response to these concerns, MeitY informed the stakeholders that the updated portal is expected to be finalized within a timeframe of six to eight months. The new iteration of the platform is being designed to incorporate advanced features that will simplify and accelerate the application process. By addressing language limitations and broadening the reach of the system, the government aims to project a more welcoming and efficient image to the global community.
Integrating the ONDC Tourism Stack
A significant portion of the discussion was dedicated to a proposal by the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC). A dedicated tourism stack was proposed to be established on their platform, which would serve as a centralized digital layer for various tourism services. This initiative is intended to facilitate the onboarding of homestays and Provide seamless booking capabilities for ticketed monuments and attractions nationwide.
The integration of such a stack is viewed as a transformative step in democratizing access to tourism inventory. By utilizing the ONDC framework, smaller service providers like homestay owners can gain visibility on a larger scale, while travelers benefit from a unified interface for planning their itineraries. The move is expected to bridge the gap between local hospitality and international demand, fostering a more inclusive digital economy within the tourism sector.
Advancing the Ease of Doing Business
The interactions between industry associations and state tourism secretaries also touched upon the critical theme of Ease of Doing Business (EODB). Industry leaders expressed a pressing need for states to simplify the processes related to approvals and licensing. While it was acknowledged that many states have officially granted tourism the status of an industry, it was pointed out that the tangible benefits associated with this designation are yet to be fully realized by the private sector.
The meeting provided an opportunity for trade bodies to advocate for more business-friendly policies that would encourage investment and growth. It was emphasized that the delivery of industry-status benefits, such as subsidized utility rates or streamlined regulatory compliance, is essential for the long-term sustainability of the sector. The dialogue was described by participants as a constructive effort to resolve mutual interests and foster a collaborative environment between the Ministry of Tourism (MOT) and the various States and Union Territories.
Structural Improvements and Future Outlook
The broader e-Visa regime was scrutinized with a focus on streamlining the entire lifecycle of a traveler’s journey. Beyond the initial application, the validity of visas and the accessibility of information in multiple languages were identified as areas requiring immediate attention. The consensus among stakeholders was that a more robust and user-friendly digital entry system would directly correlate with an increase in inbound tourism numbers.
Furthermore, the focus on ticketed monuments and attractions signifies a shift toward a more integrated visitor experience. By digitizing the entry process for India’s rich cultural heritage sites, the government intends to reduce physical bottlenecks and improve the overall satisfaction of tourists. The successful implementation of these digital tools is expected to reposition India as a leader in travel technology.
Stakeholder Expectations and Industry Sentiment
The sentiment following the meeting was one of cautious optimism. Office-bearers of various tourism trade bodies expressed their hope that these high-level interactions would lead to concrete, positive outcomes for the sector. The engagement was seen as a vital step in bridging the communication gap between policymakers and those on the ground who manage the day-to-day operations of the travel industry.
The focus on solving issues related to EODB and digital infrastructure suggests a strategic pivot toward modernization. As the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology works toward the six-to-eight-month deadline for the new portal, the industry remains watchful. The successful rollout of the ONDC tourism stack and the revamped e-Visa system are anticipated to be the cornerstones of India’s tourism recovery and growth in the coming years.
Conclusion and Path Forward
The meeting led by Dr. Stivatsa Krishna marks a definitive attempt to synchronize the efforts of various government departments and the private sector. By prioritizing the revamping of the e-Visa portal and embracing the ONDC’s digital framework, the Ministry of Tourism is signaling its commitment to a technology-first approach. The resolution of administrative complexities and the enhancement of the digital interface for international visitors are expected to dismantle the barriers that have previously hindered the growth of inbound travel. As these proposals transition into the implementation phase, the collaboration between the center and the states will remain crucial in ensuring that the vision of a seamless tourism ecosystem is fully realized.