Tourism and Indian Economy
Introduction
Across the globe, tourism brings money to the cities and Nations. Tourism also offers jobs for the residents and also provides advantages to the destination. It is observed that India has realised the advantages available from these Industries. It is due to its enhanced economy and promoting itself as a culturally diverse and rich nation, that the tourism sector of India also helps in bringing billions of dollars into the economy every year. The advancement of the tourism sector is due to the advancement in the arrival of more foreign travellers and the enhancement in the number of domestic travellers.
Types of Tourism
India is a nation with significant diversity concerning its mythology, history, ecology and geographical diversity in terms of its plains and mountains. One significant type of tourism is leisure tourism which is referred to as “free time.” Business tourism is also another type of tourism that refers to travel for the purpose of Business and it has three major sections which include trading for goods, conducting the transactions for business and attending a conference and exhibition. Ecological tourism is the third type of tourism which has diversity in flora and fauna and beautiful natural attractions. One example of ecological tourism in India is Kaziranga National Park. Pilgrimage tourism is also prevalent in India which refers to the destinations which individuals visit for the purpose of pilgrimage including Kedarnath, Amarnath and Golden temple of Amritsar.
Tourist Attractions in India
India is a nation which is recognised for its lavish treatment of all travellers. The visitor-friendly conventions, varied lifestyles and heritage are also abiding attractions for the travellers. It is also observed that Indian handicrafts particularly carpets, ivory and brass work are some of the main shopping products that attract foreign tourists. It also helps in enhancing the GDP of the Indian economy.
Tourism and Indian Economy
It is significant to note that tourism has helped the Indian economy to grow fundamentally. According to the reports conducted by the Economic Survey in 2011-12, the industry has the potential to develop large-scale employment both indirectly and directly. The GDP of the Indian economy has increased to 6.8% due to the tourism sector. The tourism sector also plays a significant role in the Indian economy contributing to both creation of jobs and foreign exchange earnings.
The tourism sector of India directly contributes to the GDP of the nation, offering employment opportunities for millions specifically in transportation entertainment and hospitality Industries. Foreign exchange earnings from the tourism industry also contribute fundamentally to the overall reserves of India which also supports the economic viability of the nation. In addition, the tribal sector is also vulnerable to external attributes which include natural disasters and geo-political pressures. Initiatives like “Atithi Devo Bhava” which means that the Guest is God have the purpose of ameliorating the overall experience of tourists. The resilience and agility in the sector are amalgamated with supportive strategies, which are vital for leveraging travel as a driving attribute for the enhancement of India's economy.
Statistics
It is observed that in 2021 the total number of “domestic tourist visits” to the states and union territories of India was 67,76, 32, 981 in comparison to approximately 61, 02, 16, 157 in 2020 which was quite less due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It is Gujarat from India which has recorded the most number of foreign tourists in 2022 which is approximately 20.70%. it was followed by Maharashtra and West Bengal which received a total number of foreign tourists approximately of 17.60 and 12.08% respectively.
Hence, it can be said that it helps the country to get more foreign direct investment and enhance its economy which provides a positive impact for the entire tourism sector and the country as well.
FAQ
1. Why should individuals need to visit India?
India is a popular destination where individuals can visit several temples, national parks, wildlife sanctuaries and due to its wide variety of cultures.
2. Is a Visa required to visit India?
Yes, foreign travellers need to visit India with the help of a visa. Applicants needed to be eligible from the countries that may apply online approximately 4 days in advance of the day of arrival.
3. Which is the best time to visit India?
It depends on the destination which the individual wishes to visit. However, for Northern and Central India it is favoured to visit from October to March. And southern and eastern Asia can be visited from November to April.