The 23rd IAAPI Expo 2025 in Mumbai witnessed a landmark moment as Hon’ble Tourism Minister Sh. Gajendra Shekhawat Ji graced the event, reinforcing the amusement industry’s role as a key pillar of tourism and economic growth. His visit, interactions with industry leaders, and inspiring address reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the sector and unlocking its full potential.
During his tour of the Expo, the Minister explored various exhibits, engaging with Indian park operators, amusement manufacturers, and indoor entertainment center operators. He actively listened to industry leaders, understanding both the opportunities and challenges they face. Recognizing the sector’s vast potential, he assured stakeholders that the government would provide the necessary policy support and guidance to accelerate its growth and global competitiveness.
In his speech, Sh. Shekhawat emphasized India’s potential to become a manufacturing giant in the amusement industry, similar to the transformation of the Indian toy industry, which has evolved from being an importer to a net exporter. He highlighted that with the right government support, incentives, and industry collaboration, India could become a major exporter of amusement rides, attractions, and park infrastructure, aligning with the broader “Make in India” vision.
A key theme in his address was experiential tourism, where he stressed that the amusement sector can significantly enhance India’s tourism appeal by offering world-class entertainment and leisure experiences. With evolving consumer preferences and rising disposable incomes, amusement parks, water parks, and indoor entertainment centers can serve as major attractions for both domestic and international visitors.
Additionally, the Minister underlined the huge potential in mythological and religious tourism, noting that India’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage presents immense opportunities for themed attractions. He suggested that amusement parks inspired by Indian mythology, epics, and historical narratives could attract millions of visitors, blending education, entertainment, and faith-based experiences.
Sh. Shekhawat also shared an ambitious vision for India’s tourism sector, stating that with the right push, it could contribute up to 10% of the nation’s GDP. He emphasized that tourism is not just about recreation but an economic force that drives employment, infrastructure growth, and foreign exchange earnings. Strengthening the amusement sector as an integral part of India’s tourism ecosystem would be crucial to achieving this goal.
During the IAAPI Awards Night, the Minister engaged in meaningful discussions with industry leaders, policymakers, and key stakeholders, deliberating on strategies to streamline regulations, attract investments, and foster innovation in the sector. He expressed deep appreciation for IAAPI’s contributions over the past 26 years, acknowledging the efforts of IAAPI’s founders and all past and present Chairmen in shaping a strong and united industry fraternity. Assuring his full support, he pledged to work closely with IAAPI to ensure that the amusement industry gets the recognition and assistance it deserves.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Shrikant Goenka, Chairman of IAAPI, highlighted the industry’s remarkable growth trajectory, stating:
“The Indian amusement industry is rising at a CAGR of 10% and is poised to become a ₹22,000 crore industry by 2030. This growth presents a tremendous opportunity for both domestic and international stakeholders to invest in and expand the sector.”
He further emphasized the need for robust infrastructure, policy support, and global collaborations to capitalize on this growth and establish India as a major player in the amusement industry worldwide.
The Minister’s visit and commitment to the sector have ignited a new wave of optimism among stakeholders. With increasing government backing, infrastructure investments, and industry-driven initiatives, the Indian amusement industry is set for unprecedented expansion, playing a vital role in shaping the country’s tourism landscape and economic future.
