Travel and tourism is poised for its own Amrit kaal

General Studies Paper 3

Context:

India’s travel and tourism sector will be the key axis of development in the coming years. Budget 2023 has outlined the path to developing tourism in mission mode. The tourism sector accounts for 10% of the total employment directly and provides 8% of the overall GDP.

What are the efforts by the Indian government for the growth of tourism?

• The Budget Session addressed all the “6Ps” effectively by covering destination planning and management, infrastructure development, sustainability and safety, development of human capital, policy, and process interventions to align the Centre and states, and promoting the narrative of Indian tourism.
• The Union budget has listed six themes for the development of the sector — convergence, public-private participation, creativity, innovation, digitisation and development of destinations.
• Tourism remains a state subject. The central tourism department is making efforts to move it to the Concurrent List. The idea of a National Tourism Board is under consideration by the government.
• Prime Minister Modi has a vision to develop50 destinations across the country.

Way forward:

• There is a need for collaboration between the government, private sector, and local communities in developing and promoting tourism. It stimulates creativity, enhances competitiveness.
• Technology adoption will help in the growth of tourism. Travel experiences are becoming more personalised, immersive, and interactive.
• AR/VR can help travelers explore destinations before they even arrive. It can provide virtual tours and simulations of famous landmarks, historical sites, and cultural experiences. AI-powered chatbots and digital assistants can help travelers plan their trips, recommend personalized activities, and offer real-time assistance while
• A coordinated approach boosted by the adoption of technology resolves the issue of low spending by foreign tourists in India. On average, foreign tourists spend 33% less than they would in the US.
• The tourism sector requires a comprehensive strategy that addresses the six key pillars of planning, place, people, policy, process, and promotion.
• Granting tourism infrastructure status will provide further impetus to the growth of the sector.