Marketing Development Assistance Scheme offers financial support to approved tourism service providers and state tourism departments for promoting Indian tourism in global markets. It works under the Overseas Promotion & Publicity (OPP) framework of the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, and covers costs of international trade fairs, study tours, road shows and online promotional campaigns.
As per the Ministry of Tourism reply in Rajya Sabha on 31 July 2025, Marketing Development Assistance Scheme is under review to match the changing needs of the tourism industry. The scheme has been on hold for a long time and no financial support was released to state governments or UT administrations under it in the last three years. Before planning any overseas tour under this scheme, applicants should confirm the current position with the Ministry of Tourism.
The scheme is made for tourism service providers already approved by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, or by the State or UT tourism department. With this support, approved businesses can show Indian tourism products in overseas markets and bring more foreign tourists to the country.
Marketing Development Assistance Scheme - Introduction
Under the basic framework, the scheme works in two parts. Private tourism service providers get financial support for study tours and participation in overseas marketing events organised by the Ministry of Tourism. State and UT tourism departments get support for stall and participation costs in international events.
The main aims are to push stakeholders to promote Indian tourism abroad, increase the global visibility of the Incredible India brand, and raise the number of foreign tourists visiting India.
Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Marketing Development Assistance Scheme |
| Level | Central |
| Target Beneficiaries | Business Entities |
| Category | Travel & Tourism, Business & Entrepreneurship |
| Nodal Ministry | Ministry of Tourism |
| Support Ceiling | ₹3,50,000 per overseas case |
| Current Status | Under review by Ministry of Tourism |
Benefits
Tourism service providers can receive financial support for study tours and participation in overseas marketing events organised by the Ministry of Tourism, capped at ₹3,50,000 per case.
| Particulars | Extent of Support |
|---|---|
| Economy class airfare | 90% |
| Booth/Stall expenses | 90% |
| Lodging expenses | Max 5 nights at ₹10,000 per night |
State and UT tourism departments also receive support for stall and participation costs, with an overall ceiling of ₹3,50,000. Both private providers and government departments can claim 50% of costs for online promotional activities or digital content creation, up to ₹1,00,000 per financial year.
These benefit details come from the revised MDA guidelines effective from 10 March 2022. Since the scheme is under review, the actual benefit rules may change once new guidelines are released.
Eligibility
Applicants should meet the following conditions to qualify for this support:
- Applicant should be a travel agent, inbound tour operator, transport operator, classified hotel, bed & breakfast unit, home stay, motel, guest house, standalone restaurant, convention center, or an online aggregator.
- The organization should hold valid approval from the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, or the State/UT Tourism Department.
- If the entity recorded a foreign exchange earning (FEE) between ₹1 crore and ₹2 crore in either 2018-19 or 2019-20, it can undertake up to two sponsored tours annually.
- If the entity earned ₹2 crore or more in either 2018-19 or 2019-20, it can undertake up to three sponsored tours annually.
- State and UT tourism departments remain exempt from these revenue conditions.
Application Process
Prior Approval
Applicants should obtain formal prior approval from the Ministry of Tourism before starting an international tour.
STEP 1 - Download the application form (Annexure-I) from the official MDA scheme guidelines.
STEP 2 - Fill in all details and attach the required supporting documents.
STEP 3 - Email the signed application to mda-tourism@gov.in at least 21 days before departure.
Reimbursement Claims
After the promotional activity is complete, applicants should submit a claim for reimbursement.
STEP 1 - Download the claim forms labelled Annexure-II, III and IV from the official MDA scheme guidelines.
STEP 2 - Complete the forms and attach proof of expenses.
STEP 3 - Submit the claim by email to mda-tourism@gov.in within 45 days of returning home. Physical copies are not accepted.
Documents
Keep the following documents ready in two sets, one for prior approval and one for reimbursement claims.
For Prior Approval:
- Valid approval certificate from the Ministry of Tourism or the local State tourism board.
- Signed declaration showing the applicant is not under investigation or debarred by any government agency.
- Foreign Exchange Earnings document certified by a Chartered Accountant.
For Reimbursement:
- Financial support records from the last three years.
- Copies of air tickets and stamped immigration pages.
- A short tour summary report (maximum 250 words).
- Original payment receipts for travel, booth setup and lodging.
References
Official MDA scheme guidelines PDF
News on Marketing Development Assistance Scheme review
Ministry of Tourism official website: tourism.gov.in
FAQ's
Who can apply for Marketing Development Assistance Scheme?
Ministry-approved tourism service providers and State or UT tourism departments are eligible to apply.
What activities receive funding?
The scheme covers international sales tours, travel exhibitions, online marketing campaigns and creation of digital promotional content.
What is the support limit for lodging?
Applicants can claim lodging expenses up to ₹10,000 per night for a maximum of 5 nights.
How many tours does this scheme cover per year?
Providers with earnings between ₹1 crore and ₹2 crore can take up to 2 tours, while those earning over ₹2 crore can take up to 3 tours annually.
Is prior approval mandatory?
Yes, applicants should get prior approval at least 21 days before the tour to be considered for financial support.
How do I submit my reimbursement claim?
Applicants should email the completed claim forms and documents to mda-tourism@gov.in within 45 days of completing the trip.
Can I use other funding for the same tour?
No, applicants should not claim or receive support from any other government agency for the same activity.
Is the scheme available for domestic travel?
No, the scheme is strictly for international promotional activities.
Is the scheme still running in 2026?
As per the Ministry of Tourism reply in Rajya Sabha on 31 July 2025, the scheme is under review and has been on hold for a long time. Applicants should confirm the current position with the Ministry of Tourism before planning any tour.
Does prior approval guarantee my reimbursement?
No, approval confirms eligibility but reimbursement depends on final documents and available government funds.