Tourism including Ecotourism | Geography Optional for UPSC (Notes) PDF Download

What is Tourism?

• Tourism involves individuals traveling to different locations, either for recreational enjoyment, relaxation, family bonding, or business purposes, typically for a short period of time. 
• It pertains to the temporary relocation of people to places beyond their usual living areas, engaging in various activities and experiences at their chosen destination.

Who is a tourist?

A tourist is an individual who travels to and stays in locations beyond their typical surroundings for a duration not exceeding one consecutive year. The purpose of their travel can vary, including leisure, business, or other reasons, as defined by the World Tourism Organization.

Sustainable tourism

• Sustainable tourism, as defined by the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), is an approach to tourism development that considers and balances its environmental, economic, and socio-cultural impacts. 
• The goal is to ensure that tourism can thrive in the long run by maintaining an equilibrium among these three aspects.

Green Tourism

• Green tourism refers to the practice of engaging in environmentally friendly tourism activities and providing eco-conscious tourist services. This concept encompasses a wide range of sustainable practices aimed at reducing tourism's negative impact on the environment. However, the term has become somewhat controversial in recent years.
• Despite its eco-friendly connotations, green tourism has often been misused by hotels and tour operators who claim to be environmentally responsible but do not actually implement sustainable practices. This misleading marketing strategy, known as greenwashing, has resulted in a growing skepticism towards businesses that label themselves as green.
• In essence, green tourism should involve genuine efforts to minimize environmental harm, such as recycling and water conservation. However, the prevalence of greenwashing has tainted the term's reputation, making it essential for consumers to carefully scrutinize hotels and tours that claim to be eco-friendly.

Types of Tourism In India

• Nature Tourism: With a vast coastline and numerous beautiful beaches, India is an ideal destination for nature lovers. The country is home to evergreen forests, diverse flora and fauna, and picturesque hill stations. Some of the most popular nature destinations in India include Uttarakhand, Kashmir, Kerala, Shimla, Jammu, Goa, Munnar, Ooty, Kodaikanal, Conoor, Shillong, Darjeeling, Mussoorie, Leh-Ladakh, Manali, and Nainital.
• Heritage/Cultural Tourism: India is the birthplace of Buddhism and Hinduism, boasting hundreds of monasteries and ancient temples. As a top destination for spiritual tourism, the holy city of Varanasi attracts international tourists to its ghats and towering Hindu temples along the banks of the Ganges River.
• Wildlife Tourism: India is home to diverse wildlife, with its climatic conditions and geographical features making it one of the most biodiverse spots on Earth. The country maintains 566 wildlife sanctuaries, 105 national parks, and 12 bio-reserves (under the UNESCO MAB program). Major wildlife zones in India include the Deccan Peninsula, Western Ghats, Gangetic Plains, North Eastern Region, and the Himalayan Region.
• Adventure Tourism: The Himalayan Mountains are among the most popular destinations for hikers, mountaineers, and climbers, offering countless trekking adventures.
• Pilgrimage Tourism: India is famous for pilgrimage tourism, as it is home to various religious sites. In ancient times, people primarily traveled for pilgrimage purposes.
• Medical Tourism: India's medical tourism industry has been rapidly growing, with the number of international patients increasing from 10,000 in 2000 to 400,000 in 2013. Apollo Hospitals alone treated 110,000 international patients in 2014, positioning India's medical tourism sector as a potential success story, similar to its software/IT industry.

Importance of ‘Tourism’ in India

• Boosts Income and Employment: Tourism plays a significant role in India's economy, accounting for 8% of total employment in 2017. It also leads to increased sales of local products like handlooms and handicrafts.
• Strengthens the Service Sector: The tourism industry propels growth in the service sector, with businesses such as airlines, hotels, and transportation benefiting from the rise in tourism.
• Foreign Exchange Earnings: International tourists contribute to India's foreign exchange earnings, thereby strengthening the economy.
• Preservation of National Heritage and Environment: Tourism brings attention to the importance of historical sites and the need to preserve them, helping maintain India's cultural heritage and natural environment.
• Cultural Pride Renewal: When tourist attractions receive global recognition and appreciation, it instills a sense of pride among Indian residents.
• Infrastructure Development: To ensure a comfortable and convenient experience for tourists, multi-use infrastructures are being developed in various tourist destinations. For example, Uttarakhand's plan to introduce mobile caravans is a recent initiative.
• Global Recognition: Tourism helps put India on the global map, garnering appreciation and recognition for its diverse attractions and cultural heritage. It also fosters cultural exchange, promoting understanding and appreciation between India and other countries.
• Soft Power and Cultural Diplomacy: Tourism acts as a form of soft power, encouraging people-to-people connections and fostering friendship and cooperation between India and other nations. This promotes cultural diplomacy and strengthens international relations. 

Scope of Tourism in India

• Tourism in India represents a significant sector of the economy, contributing 9.2% to the national GDP in 2018 and providing employment for 8.78% of the population. Each year, the country attracts around 17.9 million international tourists and sees a staggering 740 million domestic visits. In 2008, the industry generated approximately $100 billion, a figure expected to rise to $275.5 billion by 2018, with an annual growth rate of 6.9%.
• The World Tourism Organization predicts that India will become the leader in South Asian tourism by 2020, with an estimated 8.9 million arrivals. Furthermore, the country is projected to rank as the second-fastest growing tourism economy in the world between 2005 and 2014, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council, with a growth rate of 8.8%.

 Reasons to Invest

• Significant Economic Contributor: Tourism in India accounts for 9.2% of the country's GDP and is the third-largest source of foreign exchange earnings.
• Competitive Ranking: India ranks 34th on the World Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index 2019, which is released by the World Economic Forum.
• Popularity Among International Tourists: India is the 16th most visited country globally, with a 1.56% share in the world's tourism receipts.
• Diverse Tourism Offerings: India offers a wide range of niche tourism products, including cruises, adventure, medical, wellness, sports, MICE, eco-tourism, film, rural, and religious tourism.
• Strong Domestic Tourism: Domestic tourism accounts for three-fourths of the country's tourism economy.
• Promising Growth Projections: The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has predicted that the travel and tourism industry in India will grow by 8% per annum between 2008 and 2016.
• Rising Foreign Exchange Earnings: Foreign exchange earnings from tourism in India are expected to register annualized growth of 14% during the same period.
• Favorable FDI Policy: The Indian government allows 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) under the automatic route in tourism and hospitality, subject to compliance with applicable regulations and laws.
• Financial Support
  • INR 5 Billion has been allocated towards the proposed creation of 5 tourist circuits around specific themes.
  • INR 1 Billion has been allocated towards a National Mission on Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation (PRASAD), a drive that is to be launched in this financial year.
  • INR 2 Billion has been allocated towards National Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana (HRIDAY) to be launched for conserving and preserving the heritage character of certain cities.
  • INR 1 Billion has been allocated for the preservation of archaeological sites.
  • The Budget Allocation for Annual Plan 2015-16 of Ministry of Culture is Rs.1455.00 Crore.

Major Policy Initiative – taken by Indian Government

1. Some important timeline in tourism sector in India is given below
   • 1988 – Establishment of Ministry of Civil Aviation Tourism.
   • 1991 – Tourism as a source of Foreign Investment
   • 1992 – National action plan for tourism
   • 1999-2000 – Visit India Year
   • 2002 – The concept of highway tourism, agricultural tourism, and rural tourism. A campaign titled as Incredible India was launched.
   • 2009 – Another campaign titled as Atithi Devo Bhava was introduced
2. Initiatives are taken by the government to promote the tourism industry
   • In year 2002, the Government of India announced a New Tourism Policy.
   • The policy is built around the 7-S Mantra of-
     (i) SWAAGAT (WELCOME)
     (ii) SOOCHANAA (INFORMATION)
     (iii) SUVIDHAA(FACILITATION)
     (iv) SURAKSHAA (SECURITY)
     (v) SAHYOG (COOPERATION)
     (vi) SANRACHNAA (INFRASTRUCTURE)
     (vii) SAFAAI (CLEANLINESS)
3. Promotion Of Indian Tourism
   • Incredible India! : – AAMIR KHAN. (Brand Ambassador)
   • Gujarat Tourism: – AMITABH BACHCHAN. (B.Amb)
   • Kerala Tourism: – Govt. of Kerala (Incredible India!).
   • Rajasthan Tourism: – Govt. of Rajasthan (Incredible India!).
   • Madhya Pradesh Tourism: – Govt. of MP (Incredible India!).
4. Swadesh Darshan Scheme: Under it, the Ministry of Tourism provides Central Financial Assistance (CFA) to State Governments/Union Territory Administrations for infrastructure development of 13 identified theme based circuits.
   • 13 Circuits are: North-East India Circuit, Buddhist Circuit, Himalayan Circuit, Coastal Circuit, Krishna Circuit, Desert Circuit, Tribal Circuit, Eco Circuit, Wildlife Circuit, Rural Circuit, Spiritual Circuit, Ramayana Circuit and Heritage Circuit.
5. Integrated development of identified pilgrimage destinations (includes employment generation) has been undertaken under the ‘National Mission on Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive’ (PRASHAD) Scheme.
6. “Adopt a Heritage Project” plans to entrust heritage sites/monuments and other tourist sites to private sector companies, public sector companies and individuals for the development of various tourist amenities.
7. Incredible India Website to promote to and engage with travelers.
8. Online Learning Management System for creating skilled manpower to work as tourist facilitators.

Challenges of India’s Tourism Sector

• Infrastructure and Connectivity: Deficiencies in infrastructure and inadequate connectivity hamper tourist visits to some heritage sites. For example, many tourist destinations like Kangchenjunga, are still not easily accessible.
• Low-cost hotels: The hotels and holiday homes are not up to the mark and are marred by unhygienic conditions and lack proper sanitation.
• Absence of basic amenities like drinking water, well maintained toilets, first aid, cafeteria etc. at tourist places.
• Skill Deficit: The number of adequately trained individuals for the tourism and hospitality sector is a key challenge to giving visitors a world-class experience.
• Entry/exit Issue: Despite the introduction of an e-visa facility, visitors find the process of applying for a visa still cumbersome.
• Promotion and Marketing: Although marketing related to India’s tourism has been increasing, still online marketing/branding remains limited and campaigns are not coordinated.
• Safety: Tourists have frequently been mugged and robbed or cheated in India and also have returned without any justice.
• Seasonality in Tourism, with the busy season being limited to six months from October to March and heavy rush in November and December.
• Non-acceptance of International Cards at small outlets.

Ecotourism

Ecotourism refers to the responsible and sustainable travel to natural areas, with the aim of preserving the environment and enhancing the well-being of local communities. It involves combining conservation efforts, community development, and sustainable travel practices. Those involved in ecotourism, including organizers, participants, and marketers, should adhere to the following principles:

• Minimize any negative impacts on the environment, society, and local culture, as well as the psychological well-being of the communities involved.
• Promote environmental and cultural awareness, fostering respect and understanding among travelers and local communities.
• Ensure that both visitors and hosts have positive experiences during the ecotourism activities.
• Allocate a portion of the financial proceeds from ecotourism to support conservation projects and initiatives.
• Create economic opportunities for local communities and private businesses, distributing financial benefits among stakeholders.
• Offer engaging and informative experiences for visitors that raise awareness of the host country's political, environmental, and social context.
• Design, build, and maintain facilities that have minimal impact on the environment and local resources.
• Acknowledge and respect the rights and spiritual beliefs of Indigenous Peoples within the local community, collaborating with them to promote empowerment and shared benefits.

Ecotourism, established as a distinct form of tourism in the Oxford Dictionary around 1980, diverges significantly from conventional travel experiences. Unlike typical tourist visits, ecotourism is specifically designed to preserve and enhance natural, rural environments. This type of tourism places a strong emphasis on education and the sustainable development of both the area and its local inhabitants.
The term "ecotour" was officially coined in 1973, but there remains ambiguity in defining the characteristics of true ecotourists. Generally, the classification is determined by assessing the sustainability and economic contributions of the destination while ensuring the preservation of its inherent identity and natural attributes.

How ecotourism is different from regular tourism?

• Entertainment vs Education: Traditional tourism revolves around the preferences and purposes of travelers, while ecotourism is centered on the well-being and development of a specific destination.

• Exploration vs Observation: Conventional tourism is typically designed for exploring local features and culture, whereas ecotourism is focused on observing the natural environment and inhabitants of a place, with the goal of fostering development.

• Relaxation vs Sustainability: Mainstream travel aims for relaxation and a break from routine, whereas ecotourism is driven by a commitment to visiting rural natural areas through sustainable practices.

• Traveling vs Contribution to Nature: The fundamental distinction between regular travel and ecotourism lies in the emphasis on contributing to nature. Ecotourism, as implied by its name, allows for economic development through travel, in contrast to conventional tourism.

Importance of Ecotourism

• Proximity to Rural Settlements: Ecotourism facilitates direct access to rural areas, enabling close observation of their conditions. The essence of ecotourism lies in engaging with local communities, gaining insights into their culture, and contributing to the overall improvement of their living standards.

• Environmental Conservation: A critical aspect of ecotourism is the preservation of sensitive natural areas, requiring careful attention and effective management. The initiation of necessary operations depends on accurate observation and analysis of these environments.

• Understanding Community Culture: To enhance the well-being of residents in natural areas, a deep understanding of their community culture and lifestyle is essential. This forms the basis for systematic development initiatives in such regions.

• Promotion of Environmental Awareness: Ecotourism serves as a catalyst for fostering a heightened understanding of the environment and emphasizing the significance of conservation efforts.

How popular is ecotourism?

• Rising Popularity of Ecotourism: In recent years, ecotourism has experienced a significant surge in popularity, witnessing a yearly increase of 10% in ecotourists. This escalating trend can be attributed to two primary reasons.
• Escaping Modern City Life: One key factor driving the growth of ecotourism is the desire of individuals to escape the demands of hectic modern city life. People seek the opportunity to immerse themselves in natural settings and explore the distinctive lifestyles present in these serene environments.
• Conservation Awareness: Another crucial factor contributing to the popularity of ecotourism is the growing awareness and concern regarding the depletion of natural resources. In response to environmental anxieties, individuals are increasingly inclined towards ecotourism as a means of actively participating in conservation efforts and minimizing their ecological impact.
• Meeting Dual Needs: Ecotourism effectively addresses the dual needs of satisfying the innate human desire to explore new places while simultaneously fostering a positive impact through sustained contributions. This unique combination of exploration and purposeful engagement has propelled the widespread acceptance and popularity of the ecotourism concept.

Ecotourism examples in India

• India's Embrace of Ecotourism: The concept of ecotourism has found substantial support in India, with several noteworthy destinations promoting sustainable tourism practices.
• Honey Hills at Thenmala Eco-tourism, Kerala: Kerala is home to the picturesque Honey Hills, a prime example of ecotourism, where visitors can experience the beauty of nature in a sustainable and responsible manner.
• Bandipur National Park, Karnataka: Karnataka boasts the ecologically rich Bandipur National Park, serving as a testament to India's commitment to preserving biodiversity through responsible tourism.
• Sunderbans National Park, West Bengal: In West Bengal, the Sunderbans National Park stands as a shining example of ecotourism, offering visitors an opportunity to explore the unique mangrove ecosystem while promoting conservation efforts.
• Tribal Excursion in Chhattisgarh: Chhattisgarh provides a distinctive ecotourism experience through tribal excursions, allowing visitors to engage with indigenous communities and gain insights into their rich cultural heritage in an environmentally conscious manner.

Impact on society

• Positive Impact of Ecotourism: Ecotourism is making a positive societal impact by emphasizing the observation of natural places for holistic development, preserving their intrinsic natural essence. Travelers are provided with opportunities to explore and understand sensitive locations, with countries like Nepal, Madagascar, and Ecuador standing out as beautiful examples of ecotourism in developing nations.
• Downsides of Ecotourism: Despite its positive aspects, ecotourism is not without environmental drawbacks. Environmentalists advocate for ecotourism as a means to uplift rural communities and conserve nature. However, the tourism industry often adopts ecotourism merely as a business model to attract tourists.
• Congestion and Environmental Compromise: The unintended consequence of the tourism industry's approach is the congestion of rural areas, leading to a gradual compromise of natural beauty. Rather than exclusively fostering the development of local areas and preserving community culture, these places risk becoming generic tourist destinations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) of Tourism including Ecotourism

What are the main types of tourism in India?

The main types of tourism in India include nature tourism, heritage/cultural tourism, wildlife tourism, adventure tourism, pilgrimage tourism, and medical tourism.

What is the difference between ecotourism and sustainable tourism?

Ecotourism refers to responsible and sustainable travel to natural areas, focusing on preserving the environment and enhancing local communities' well-being. Sustainable tourism, on the other hand, is an approach that balances environmental, economic, and socio-cultural impacts, ensuring tourism thrives in the long run while maintaining equilibrium among these aspects.

What is greenwashing in the context of green tourism?

Greenwashing refers to the misleading marketing strategy used by some hotels and tour operators who claim to be environmentally responsible but do not actually implement sustainable practices. It has resulted in growing skepticism towards businesses that label themselves as green.

How does tourism contribute to India's economy?

Tourism contributes significantly to India's economy, accounting for 9.2% of the national GDP in 2018 and providing employment for 8.78% of the population. It also leads to increased sales of local products and foreign exchange earnings.

What are some challenges faced by India's tourism sector?

Some challenges faced by India's tourism sector include infrastructure and connectivity deficiencies, inadequate low-cost hotels, lack of basic amenities at tourist sites, skill deficit in the workforce, cumbersome visa processes, limited promotion and marketing, safety concerns for tourists, seasonality, and non-acceptance of international cards at small outlets.