The Ministry of External Affairs disclosed in the Rajya Sabha that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 77 official foreign trips have cost a total of ₹557.51 crore. The figure covers all trips since 2021, highlighting the rising expense of high‑profile diplomatic travel.

Key Takeaways

  • ₹557.51 crore spent on 77 foreign trips
  • Average cost ~₹3 crore per day
  • Expenses include airfare, security, protocol and staff

Breakdown of Expenditure

According to the MEA, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has undertaken 77 official overseas trips since 2021. The total cost incorporates air‑fare, security arrangements, delegation support, and hospitality. While the average daily expense hovers around ₹3 crore, certain high‑security visits have peaked at ₹12.4 lakh per hour.

Historical Background

Foreign trips have long been a cornerstone of India’s diplomatic outreach. Since the early 1990s, the cost of such missions has risen steadily, but the period from 2021 to 2024 saw a five‑fold jump, putting pressure on the fiscal ledger.

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Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the surge in foreign travel spending reflects both India's growing global engagement and the rising costs of high‑security diplomatic missions. This figure signals policymakers to reassess budgeting and travel strategies.

"A clear budget framework is essential to curb escalating costs of foreign delegations," says foreign‑policy analyst Dr. Ajay Singh.
Did You Know?: PM Modi’s first foreign trip in 2014 to the United Nations set the precedent for the extensive travel schedule that followed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Were all 77 trips funded entirely by the government?

A: Yes, every expense for these trips was covered by the government budget.

Q2: What steps are being taken to reduce future travel costs?

A: The ministry is now prioritising virtual meetings and consolidating travel itineraries to curb expenses.