New Delhi, India — 3rd, December, 2025: The Ministry of Tourism (MoT), Government of India, has entered into a two-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Mastercard to position India as a premium global tourism destination. The strategic collaboration aims to showcase India’s diverse cultural, spiritual, natural, and culinary experiences to both domestic and international audiences while enhancing the country’s tourism value chain through secure digital payment ecosystems.
Partnership to Spotlight India’s Rich Heritage and Experiences
The MoU between the Ministry of Tourism and Mastercard will leverage Mastercard’s global marketing platforms, including its acclaimed Priceless™ program, to tell India’s story to the world. This initiative will highlight India’s unique travel experiences — from spiritual journeys and heritage explorations to modern lifestyle adventures — aligning with the government’s vision of transforming the country into a global tourism hub.
As part of this collaboration, Mastercard’s priceless.com will begin featuring exclusive experiences in Goa, followed by Varanasi and select destinations in the interiors of Andhra Pradesh, with more regions to be added in subsequent phases. The initiative will invite travelers to explore India beyond the usual tourist trails and discover its authentic, lesser-known gems.
Government’s Vision: India as a Must-Visit Destination
Speaking about the partnership, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Honourable Minister of Tourism, Government of India, emphasized that the collaboration represents an important milestone in India’s tourism journey.
“India offers travellers a wealth of experiences rooted in its heritage, culture, spirituality, cuisines, landscapes, and traditions,” he said.
“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.”
Under the agreement, the Ministry of Tourism will act as the official Knowledge Partner, identifying key travel corridors and facilitating partnerships with State Tourism Boards, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), and the Ministry of Culture. Together, these entities will curate immersive, high-impact tourism experiences across India’s most iconic and emerging destinations.
Mastercard’s Role: Empowering Digital Transformation in Tourism
Mastercard, a global leader in payment technology, will support the initiative by driving digital enablement across the tourism value chain. The company will work closely with government and private stakeholders to promote secure, seamless, and inclusive digital payment systems, enabling local businesses to participate in and benefit from India’s growing tourism economy.
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 aim to curate and promote unforgettable experiences that highlight India’s diverse heritage while reflecting its modern aspirations. This partnership also underscores Mastercard’s commitment to secure and seamless digital payment experiences for both global and domestic travellers.”
Echoing this sentiment, Gautam Aggarwal, President, India & South Asia, Mastercard, added,
“Mastercard is committed to strengthening India’s digital economy by making payments safer and more accessible — even in remote areas. Expanding secure digital payment acceptance within the tourism ecosystem will not only enhance visitor experiences but also empower local communities and boost economic participation.”
Strengthening India’s Tourism Value Chain
The 24-month MoU will go beyond tourism promotion to focus on sustainable growth and financial inclusion within the sector. Both organizations will collaborate to:
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Encourage responsible and secure payment practices among stakeholders.
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Support adoption of digital payments across tourism touchpoints.
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Explore innovative co-branded payment products linked to unique Indian destinations.
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Launch joint marketing campaigns targeting diverse traveler segments.
By integrating global marketing expertise with India’s vibrant tourism potential, the Ministry of Tourism and Mastercard aim to position India as a world-class travel destination — one that combines rich tradition with modern convenience.
