India Signs Two-Year MoU with Mastercard to Promote Tourism Through Digital Platforms

Collaboration to Enhance Travel Experiences

The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, has signed a two-year Memorandum of Understanding with Mastercard to promote India as a premium destination for domestic and international travellers. The collaboration will use Mastercard’s global platforms, including the Priceless programme, to showcase cultural, spiritual, natural and culinary experiences.

The agreement also aims to engage public and private stakeholders to promote secure and responsible digital payment practices, and jointly execute marketing campaigns for different traveller segments. The first activations will begin with experiences in Goa, followed by Varanasi and locations within Andhra Pradesh, with additional destinations to follow.

Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Minister of Tourism, said, “India offers travellers a wealth of experiences rooted in its heritage, culture, spirituality, cuisines, landscapes, and traditions. We continue exploring ways to present these experiences in innovative and impactful ways to audiences across the world. By leveraging global platforms, corporates can further elevate India’s positioning as a must-visit destination and deepen global engagement with our vibrant tourism ecosystem.”

As a knowledge partner, the Ministry of Tourism will identify travel corridors and facilitate partnerships with State Tourism Boards, the Archaeological Survey of India and the Ministry of Culture to curate immersive travel experiences.

Raja Rajamannar, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, Mastercard, said, “We are honoured to collaborate with the Ministry of Tourism to bring India’s remarkable stories and destinations closer to travellers everywhere. Through Priceless, we will work to curate and promote unforgettable experiences that not only highlight India’s diverse heritage but also demonstrate its modern aspirations. This collaboration also underscores our commitment to provide secure and seamless digital payment experiences to both international travellers as well as people at home.”

Gautam Aggarwal, President, India and South Asia, Mastercard, said, “Mastercard is committed to strengthening India’s digital economy by making payments safer and more accessible to people and businesses across the country, including in remote regions. By expanding secure and seamless digital payment acceptance throughout the tourism ecosystem, we aim to strengthen the tourism value chain and enable greater economic participation for local communities. This collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism will help unlock new opportunities for tourist spending.”

The MoU has been signed for twenty-four months. Beyond tourism promotion, the agreement will support the adoption of secure digital payments, encourage responsible use of payment systems and explore the introduction of co-branded payment products linked to destinations.