Tourism Talks- Unlocking Opportunities | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

Introduction

India's tourism sector stands out as one of the most rapidly advancing economic domains within the country. With significant implications for employment and regional growth, it also catalyzes the performance of interconnected industries. Notably, the Union Budget 2023-24 underscored the pivotal role of tourism in India's economic landscape, allocating Rs. 2400 crores to the Ministry of Tourism. Projections indicate that by 2028, India's tourism and hospitality industry could amass revenue exceeding 59 billion USD, with ambitious plans to create approximately 140 million jobs in tourism by 2030.

Development of tourism infrastructure

• The central government initiated the Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spirituality, Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD) scheme in 2015, aiming to enhance religious tourism experiences and develop identified pilgrimage and heritage sites. 
• Recommendations from committees include involving the private sector in tourism infrastructure development under schemes like SDS and PRASHAD to ensure commercial viability, expanding hotel room capacity through budget hotel construction on railway station surplus land, and providing financial backing to bridge funding gaps for tourism infrastructure development.

Potential and prospects

• Contribution to Income and Employment: Tourism in India has emerged as a significant driver of income generation, employment, poverty alleviation, and sustainable human development, constituting 6.23% of the national GDP and employing 8.78% of the country's workforce.
• Foreign Exchange Earnings: India benefits substantially from tourism as a source of foreign exchange earnings, positively impacting the country's balance of payments. The sector's capacity to foster micro-entrepreneurship and its high multiplier effect are noteworthy, as demonstrated by Spain's economic recovery leveraging its tourism sector during a recent downturn.
• Global Significance: Globally, tourism is a vital economic contributor, accounting for 10% of the world's GDP, 7% of global trade, and one in every 11 jobs. India's travel and tourism sector has the potential to grow significantly, supporting 46 million jobs by 2025, provided conducive investments and policies persist.
• Rural Development: Tourism drives cultural appreciation, supports local artisans, and uplifts rural economies by enhancing infrastructure and reducing urban migration pressure. India's diverse cultural tapestry offers a plethora of attractions, promising unique experiences for tourists.

Conclusion

With optimistic forecasts projecting 13.34 million foreign tourists by 2024, enhancing security infrastructure, particularly for foreign visitors, is imperative. Ensuring safety is paramount to attracting and retaining tourists. To realize India's vision of becoming a premier global tourism destination by 2047, concerted efforts to integrate various ministries' schemes are essential.