India, Aug. 31 -- India's tourism sector stands at an inflexion point. In FY23, it created 7.6 crore jobs and contributed 5% to GDP. The sector accounts for over 5% of GDP and supports over 13% of total employment. In the Union Budget 2026-27, the government allocated Rs.2,438 crore to tourism, announced plans to transform 15 iconic archaeological sites into experiential heritage destinations, launched thematic tourism trails across mountains, coasts, and biodiversity zones, and proposed a National Institute of Hospitality to professionalise the sector (source). The ambition is clear. What remains less clearly articulated is how visitors encounter our heritage on the ground. Between monument and experience lies an interface - storytelling...