India Strengthens Digital Systems to Improve Transparency in Hospitality and Tourism

The Government of India has outlined a series of digital, regulatory and tax reforms aimed at improving transparency, service quality and affordability across the hospitality and tourism sector. Responding to a written question in the Lok Sabha on 16 March 2026, the Ministry of Tourism detailed new online systems for industry accreditation, expanded tourist support services, and goods and services tax (GST) reductions designed to lower operating costs and encourage travel.

Digital accreditation through the NIDHI+ portal

According to the Press Information Bureau, the Ministry of Tourism has introduced a fully online system to manage applications for classification of accommodation units and recognition of tourism service providers. These applications are processed through the National Integrated Hospitality Industry Database (NIDHI+) portal at nidhi.tourism.gov.in.

The platform supports end-to-end digital processing, including application submission, workflow management and automated notifications. It is also integrated with a payment gateway, enabling applicants to complete transactions online. The ministry has stated that the system is intended to improve accountability and consistency across the hospitality sector.

Tourist helpline expanded for safety and accessibility

As part of broader efforts to improve visitor safety and ease of travel, the ministry continues to operate a 24×7 multilingual tourist helpline. The service is accessible via the toll-free number 1800 111 363 or short code 1363, and is now available in 12 languages, including 10 international languages.

The helpline provides information to domestic and international visitors and offers guidance during emergencies while travelling in India. It forms part of wider digital reforms supporting public service delivery across sectors.

Policy guidance and expanded e-visa access

In September 2024, the Ministry of Tourism issued a booklet outlining the industry status of the tourism and hospitality sector. This guidance has been shared with state governments and union territory administrations for consideration within their tourism and industrial policies.

In parallel, India’s e-visa scheme has been extended to citizens of 175 countries. The e-visa is valid for entry through 33 designated airports, 19 seaports and four land ports, supporting smoother arrivals for international travellers.

GST reductions to lower costs across tourism services

The government has also implemented a simplified GST structure with significant rate reductions across key sectors, including hospitality, trade and commerce. These changes took effect from 22 September 2025 and are intended to reduce prices for consumers while easing cost pressures on businesses.

Key GST changes affecting tourism and hospitality include:

• Hotel accommodation: GST on hotel rooms priced below ₹7,500 per day has been reduced from 12% to 5% without input tax credit.
• Passenger transport: GST on buses with seating capacity for more than 10 passengers has been reduced from 28% to 18%.
• Art and cultural goods: GST on art and cultural items has been reduced from 12% to 5%, benefiting artisans and sculptors.
• Food and consumer goods: GST on most food items and related consumables has been reduced to 5%, with some items attracting zero GST. Rates have also been lowered on equipment commonly used in hospitality services, such as televisions, refrigerators and air conditioners.

The Ministry of Tourism has stated that these measures are already contributing to lower operational and capital costs in the hospitality sector, with expected positive impacts on affordability and access for both domestic and international tourists.