Hindu Editorial Analysis : 10-January-2024
India, with its geographical diversity and cultural richness, stands as a prominent player in the global tourism landscape. The Maldives Association of Tourism Industry recently ‘strongly condemned’ derogatory remarks on PM Modi’s post about Lakshadweep, emphasizing the significance of promoting tourism positively.
Tourism as an Economic Catalyst
The Tourism and Hospitality sector in India plays a crucial role in the Make in India initiative, acting as an economic catalyst that drives job creation and rapid development. Over the centuries, India has been a sought-after destination for spiritual exploration and self-discovery, with notable travelers like Megasthenes, Hiuen-Tsang, Marco Polo, and Fa-Hien sharing their experiences.
Contributions to India’s Economy
The Travel and Tourism industry significantly contributes to India’s economy, providing employment opportunities for millions. The vast market for travel and tourism in India encompasses various niche products such as cruises, adventure, medical, wellness, sports, MICE, eco-tourism, film, rural, and religious tourism.
India’s Potential as a Tourism Hub
India’s extensive coastline of 7,516 km, including mainland and islands like Andaman and Nicobar, and Lakshadweep, offers diverse beach destinations. Popular spots like Goa, Kerala, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands attract both domestic and international tourists. Additionally, India holds a unique status as a spiritual tourism destination due to its association with four major world religions.
Challenges Faced by the Industry
Despite its immense potential, the Indian tourism industry faces challenges such as visa entry formalities, safety concerns, inadequate infrastructure, cleanliness issues at tourist spots, connectivity limitations, and high taxation.
Government Initiatives and Allocations
To address these challenges, the Indian government has undertaken various initiatives. In the Union Budget 2023-24, significant allocations include:
- US$ 290.4 million for the Ministry of Tourism.
- US$ 170.85 million for the Swadesh Darshan Scheme, focusing on 50 tourist destinations’ comprehensive development.
- US$ 30.25 million for tourist circuits under PRASHAD.
- Partnership with the Quality Council of India for the SAATHI initiative, ensuring the hospitality industry’s preparedness amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Designation of the Year 2023 as the ‘Visit India’ year to showcase the nation’s splendor.
Openness to Foreign Investment
India’s commitment to fostering tourism is further evident in its openness to 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the tourism industry under the automatic route. This policy encourages international collaboration and investments, contributing to the growth of the tourism sector.
Why In News
The Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI) ‘strongly condemned’ the derogatory remarks made on PM Modi’s post on Lakshadweep to promote tourism, emphasizing the importance of fostering respectful and inclusive discourse to uphold the integrity of international relations and promote a harmonious global tourism environment.
MCQs about India’s Tourism Landscape
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What is the primary focus of the Union Budget 2023-24 allocation of US$ 170.85 million?
A. Promoting wildlife conservation
B. Supporting cultural events
C. Developing comprehensive tourism experiences
D. Enhancing digital connectivity
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What challenges does the Indian tourism industry face?
A. Lack of cleanliness at tourist spots
B. Overabundance of visa options
C. High taxation and connectivity issues
D. Excessive wildlife conservation regulations
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Which major initiative is aimed at mitigating risks arising from the COVID-19 pandemic in the hospitality industry?
A. SAATHI
B. PRASHAD
C. Swadesh Darshan Scheme
D. Make in India initiative
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