The Ministry of Tourism (MoT), Government of India, has joined hands with Mastercard in a strategic two-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening India’s global positioning as a premier tourism destination. This wide-ranging collaboration focuses on showcasing India’s diverse cultural, spiritual, natural, and culinary heritage to domestic and international travelers through Mastercard’s global marketing platforms — most notably its iconic Priceless™ program.
As part of the initiative, curated experiences will be brought to priceless.com, beginning with Goa, followed by exceptional cultural and spiritual journeys in Varanasi and rural Andhra Pradesh. Many more destinations are expected to be added, providing travellers with access to immersive, authentic, and rare experiences.
Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Honourable Minister of Tourism, emphasized India’s vast tourism potential, reaffirming the government’s mission to present India’s stories in innovative ways. He highlighted the role of corporate partnerships in amplifying India’s global outreach.
Mastercard brings its global marketing expertise, secure digital payment network, and multi-market influence to the collaboration. Through Priceless™, the company aims to spotlight India’s diverse heritage while also supporting the development of safe and seamless digital payment practices across the tourism ecosystem.
Raja Rajamannar, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer, Mastercard, said the initiative intends to bring India’s remarkable stories “closer to travellers everywhere,” while ensuring unforgettable and authentic experiences.
Gautam Aggarwal, President, India & South Asia, Mastercard, added that strengthening digital payments—especially in remote regions—would boost the tourism value chain and drive economic participation across local communities.
Under the MoU, Mastercard will operate as the Knowledge Partner, while the Ministry of Tourism will identify strategic travel corridors and support collaborations with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Ministry of Culture, and State Tourism Boards.
Beyond tourist engagement, the 24-month MoU will focus on:
- Encouraging secure and responsible digital payment practices
- Expanding seamless payment acceptance nationwide
- Supporting the introduction of innovative, co-branded tourism-linked payment products
The partnership signals a significant step in India’s efforts to build world-class travel experiences while strengthening economic opportunities across the tourism sector.
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