India’s MICE Industry to Be a Game-Changer in Tourism and Employment

The Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry in India is fast emerging as a key pillar of the nation’s economic and tourism growth. This was underscored at the ‘Meet in India Conclave 2025’ held on 4 May in Jaipur, Rajasthan, on the sidelines of the 14th Great Indian Travel Bazaar (GITB).

Union Minister of Tourism & Culture, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, while addressing the gathering, stated, “India’s MICE industry is rapidly emerging as a global powerhouse, fuelled by robust economic growth, world-class infrastructure, and strong government backing. With iconic venues like Bharat Mandapam, Yashobhoomi, Jio World Centre etc. and with special focus on MICE, we aim to elevate at least 10 Indian cities into the world’s top MICE destinations. Guided by PM Narendra Modi’s visionary leadership, and with states like Rajasthan leading through legacy and innovation, India is poised to become the world’s most admired tourism and events destination,” He added that the government aims to position at least 10 Indian cities among the world’s top MICE destinations.

With iconic venues like Bharat Mandapam and Yashobhoomi and developments across cities such as Varanasi and Kochi, India’s MICE market is projected to grow at 13 per cent CAGR, reaching $103 billion by 2030.

Over 300 delegates including international MICE operators, hoteliers, and policymakers participated in the conclave, which focused on public-private partnerships, digital tools, and state-led promotion. Rajasthan, Odisha, and other states showcased their readiness to host global events, blending tradition with modern infrastructure.

Vice Chairperson, NITI Aayog, Suman Bery, emphasised, “The vision laid by Hon’ble PM during India’s G20 presidency has opened new pathways. It is now up to states to build on this momentum. From deregulation to concert tourism, India has the opportunity to become a global hub for events and experiences.”

Additional Secretary & Director General of Tourism, Suman Billa, set the context for MICE in India conclave and added that “A unified national strategy, skilled talent, digital tools, and strong state-led promotion can propel us into the top five MICE markets by 2025.” While India already has the necessary infrastructure and market demand, he pointed out that the real challenge lies in coordination. Billa emphasised the need for city-level convention promotion bureaus, a strong national MICE brand, skill development academies, and a seamless digital portal.

The conclave reinforced India’s commitment to becoming a global MICE leader, backed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision and strategic national coordination.

Dr. Jyotsna Suri, Past President, FICCI highlighted that India is no longer just a leisure destination and We are now ready to take on the world as a leading MICE destination. With exceptional infrastructure, seamless connectivity, and the proven capabilities we demonstrated during the G20, we have everything it takes to host large-scale global conventions. Through platforms like the Great Indian Travel Bazaar and Meet in India, we are not just showcasing our potential — we are inviting the world to collaborate, catalyse, and say, ‘Let’s meet in India”.