New Delhi, Dec 18 (IANS): Indian healthcare providers are giving quality par excellence at a fraction of the cost which is why medical tourism in the country is growing at a rate of 30 percent, Culture and Tourism Minister Mahesh Sharma said Thursday.

Addressing the 11th India Health Summit organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry here, Sharma also acknowledged the need for a separate body to boost medical tourism.

"No other sector is growing at a rate of 30 per cent," said Sharma.

"Medical visa on ETA (electronic travel authority) is already being provided in SAARC countries and would soon be extended further," he added.

Sharma assured the medical fraternity of all possible help in realising the potential of medical tourism.

"Indian healthcare providers are providing quality par excellence at a fraction of the cost and that is what is attracting foreigners," he said.

Describing cleanliness, security and hospitality as the key factors determining tourism, Sharma said that as part of the Swachh Bharat campaign, a huge cleanliness drive would be undertaken at all key tourist destinations, including hospitals.

Similarly, for security purposes various schemes are being devised including a nationwide 24x7 helpline.

Sharma felt it was important to be aware of the image being built on the world stage.

In this regard, he felt that "every satisfied medical tourist is a great ambassador for India back home".