India has been ranked 52 in the travel and tourism competitiveness ranking index, as per the latest report released by World Economic Forum. The Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report ranks 141 countries across 14 separate dimensions, revealing how well countries could deliver sustainable economic and societal benefits through their travel and tourism sector.

The report on tourism sector reveals that the tourism industry already accounts for 5% of India's employment and its huge potential for further growth considering country's seven million international visitors to China's 55 million.

Further, the country's natural resources (17th) are vast and diverse and its cultural resources (10th) include a unique intangible heritage (8th), sports events and a large entertainment offer. "India's relevance as business travel destination is increasing along with its economic growth, it remains a price-competitive destination (8th) and recent changes in its visa regime – not yet reflected in the data rankings — have the potential to boost international arrivals," comments the report.

However, longstanding infrastructure gaps remain, especially in tourism-specific infrastructure (109th) and the quality of roads. "Despite some uneven progress, India also lags on health and hygiene (106th) and ICT readiness (114th). The safety and security situation is unsettling, with a perceived increase in the impact of crime and violence (97th), and India ranks only 139th for environmental sustainability." states the report pointing on the negatives which are hampering the growth of travel and tourism in the country.

According to the UNWTO, the tourism industry employs 1 in 11 of the world's workers and accounts for a similar percentage of GDP. It continues to grow more quickly than the economy as a whole, driven by technological, socio-economic and cultural forces which are driving more people to move internationally more frequently.

Spain heads ranking thanks to its cultural resources, infrastructure and adaptation to digital consumption habits. France, Germany, US, UK, Switzerland, Australia, Italy are some of the countries which have topped the index.