Tourism in India has transformed dramatically, moving beyond the traditional focus on historical landmarks to embrace a diverse array of experiences that appeal to modern travellers. Today, visitors are not only drawn to iconic sites like the Taj Mahal and the Red Fort but also seek authentic interactions with local cultures, traditions, and natural landscapes. A significant trend within this evolving tourism landscape is ‘MICE tourism’, which stands for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions.
This sector emphasises the organisation of business events and corporate gatherings, positioning India as an attractive destination for international conferences and corporate retreats, thanks to its unique blend of rich culture, exceptional hospitality, and modern infrastructure.
To further explore this new tourism trend, we will turn to Meghraj Singh Royal, owner of MRS group for his expert insights into the rising popularity of MICE tourism in India. In recent years, MICE tourism in India has experienced significant growth, with the exhibition industry expanding at a remarkable rate of over 8%, outpacing the country’s GDP growth.
According to the Ministry of Tourism, India welcomed more than 6.9 million foreign tourists in 2019 for various events, conferences, and exhibitions. The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) ranked India 28th globally, hosting 158 meetings out of a total of 13,254.
This sector plays a crucial role in the overall tourism industry, generating substantial revenue and providing a boost to the local economy. As India continues to enhance its infrastructure and promote itself as a business-friendly destination, MICE tourism is poised for further expansion and recognition on the global stage.
Meghraj Singh Royal says, “India stands as the perfect MICE destination, where modernity seamlessly intertwines with rich history and cutting-edge technology, offering a unique backdrop for corporate events that inspire innovation and collaboration. From state-of-the-art venues in bustling metropolises to serene retreats steeped in tradition, India provides an unparalleled experience that caters to every aspect of business tourism, making it an ideal choice for organizations seeking to connect, engage, and thrive.”
Several factors are driving the increasing popularity of MICE tourism in India. The country boasts a rich array of destinations that seamlessly blend historical significance with modern amenities, making cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Goa prime locations for MICE events due to their excellent infrastructure and accessibility.
The Indian government has recognised MICE tourism as a vital growth area, launching initiatives such as the “Meet in India” campaign to promote the country as a premier business event destination. Additionally, significant investments in infrastructure have enhanced connectivity and facilities across major cities, with venues like the IECC Complex in Delhi positioning India competitively on the global stage.
Furthermore, India’s unique cultural appeal—where old-world charm meets contemporary sophistication—attracts international business travellers, encouraging longer stays and additional tourism opportunities. Collectively, these factors create a robust environment for MICE tourism to thrive in India.
Meghraj Singh Royal Believes, “At MRS Group, we believe that when showcasing India to the world, we must put our best foot forward. With a wealth of resources and unique offerings, we are well-positioned to emerge as a leader in the global MICE tourism sector.”
“The government’s strong support and initiatives provide us with a significant opportunity to capitalize on this momentum and elevate our tourism industry. Now is the time to harness this potential and showcase India as a premier destination for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions.”
The outlook for MICE tourism in India is exceptionally bright and full of potential. The concerted efforts from both the public and private sectors to enhance the MICE landscape signify an exciting era ahead, promising significant economic growth and fostering international partnerships.
With these developments, India is not just participating in the global MICE arena, it is poised to take a leading role, making it an exhilarating time for stakeholders in this thriving industry.
(This article is part of IndiaDotCom Pvt Lt’s sponsored feature, a paid publication programme. IDPL claims no editorial involvement and assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content of the article.)
