Indians Boosted Turkey and Azerbaijan’s Tourism — Now They’re Openly Supporting Pakistan in Indo-Pak Conflict
Indians Boosted Turkey and Azerbaijan’s Tourism — Now They’re Openly Supporting Pakistan in the Indo-Pak Conflict
In 2024 alone, over 2.75 lakh Indians flocked to Turkey and another 2.5 lakh to Azerbaijan’s capital Baku, drawn by scenic views, cultural landmarks, and easy visa access. The lure of Instagrammable landscapes in Cappadocia and the modern charm of Baku has made these destinations prime picks for Indian tourists. But as geopolitical realities shift, it’s time we asked: Are we investing our tourism spend in countries that respect our national interests?
The Numbers Don’t Lie
Between 2022 and 2024, Indian tourist arrivals in Azerbaijan jumped by a massive 68%. Indians typically stay 4–6 days in Azerbaijan and 7–10 days in Turkey. With an average spend of Rs 1–1.25 lakh per trip, the economic footprint is significant.
- Indians contribute approximately Rs 1,000–1,250 crore annually to Azerbaijan’s economy. For Turkey, the figure stands at a whopping Rs 2,900–3,350 crore annually. Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Antalya are the most frequented cities.
This surge has led to the creation of 20,000 direct tourism jobs and up to 60,000 indirect jobs in these countries. Indian capital has also flowed in—investments in Turkey’s hospitality sector have increased by 35% in just four years.
From luxury weddings and family vacations to medical tourism, Indians have chosen these countries as second homes. Airline connectivity has exploded, and visa facilitation measures made the travel process seamless.
But Where Do They Stand Now?
In the wake of Operation Sindoor and the tragic Pahalgam terror attack, both Turkey and Azerbaijan have openly supported Pakistan, calling for a "neutral investigation" rather than condemning terrorism. These diplomatic statements raise critical concerns.
It is not just a political statement—it’s a direct affront to the sentiments of the Indian public, especially when their hard-earned money has actively contributed to the economic upliftment of these nations.
Time to Rethink Our Tourism Footprint
India is not short of scenic landscapes or vibrant culture. From Kashmir to Kerala, and from Arunachal to Rajasthan, our own tourism ecosystem can match—and often surpass—the experience abroad.
Moreover, several friendly countries across Asia, Europe, and Africa offer culturally enriching and politically neutral alternatives. Investing tourism and wedding budgets in such nations not only diversifies our travel portfolio but also aligns better with our national values and geopolitical interests.
Conclusion: Vote with Your Passport
The power of the Indian tourist is immense—economically and socially. While wanderlust should never be stifled, conscious tourism must become the norm. The next time you plan a holiday or destination wedding, consider choosing a country that respects your homeland as much as you do.
Let’s ensure our journeys uplift the right allies—and send a message where it matters most: through our wallets.
