X UNIT - II Introduction to Tourism-II (Notes with questions)

 UNIT - II

 

Introduction to Tourism-II

2.1 Introduction

ü - Tourism is a significant and rapidly growing sector of the economy, contributing to the social and economic development of countries.

ü - Tourism generates substantial income and employment opportunities worldwide, accounting for about 10% of global income and employing around one-tenth of the global workforce.

ü - Developed countries like Switzerland, Austria, and France have built their economic well-being on tourism profits.

ü - Tourism is often considered a "manna from heaven" due to its positive impacts, such as foreign currency inflows, trade balance improvement, and infrastructure development.

ü - The slogan "Athithi Devo Bhava" in India reflects the country's hospitality and reverence towards guests, with meticulous arrangements made for their comfortable stay.

ü - India is an enigmatic destination, attracting tourists with its rich culture, art, dance, and drama. Responsible tourism and the importance of showcasing Indian culture and hospitality are emphasized.

ü - Tourism contributes to the Indian economy through foreign currency earnings, with popular tourist spots witnessing high footfall throughout the year.

ü - Efforts are being made by the Ministry of Tourism to enhance tourist facilities, including transportation, guides, accommodation, and culinary options, to ensure a trouble-free and enjoyable stay.

ü - The tourism and travel industry is undergoing multi-dimensional changes, driven by advancements in technology, improved hygiene conditions, and the provision of comprehensive information to tourists.

ü - The role of governmental agencies is crucial in the development and management of tourism, including the promotion of tourism destinations and the training of manpower to meet industry needs.

Define Tourism?

Tourism refers to that activity which is conducted for a short period, more than 24 hours and less than 1 year, for a non-remunerative purpose.

 

Or

Travelling to other locations for pleasure, amusement, or business and participating in tourist activities like sightseeing and cultural discovery is known as tourism. It affects the environment, the economy, and society. It also boosts regional economies and promotes cross-cultural interaction.

 

 

 

Domestic Tourism: Trips made by local residents within their own country.

Example: An American living in New York travelling to Los Angeles for business.

 

International Tourism: Trips between two countries. Outbound tourism refers to visits made by residents of one country to another country, while inbound tourism refers to visits made by residents of another country to a specific country.

Example: Trips between Hong Kong and Japan. If Hong Kong residents visit Japan, it is Hong Kong's outbound tourism. If Japanese residents visit Hong Kong, it is Hong Kong's inbound tourism. International tourists are those who travel to a country other than their own country of residence.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Why Tourism?

Today, the tourism industry is expanding quickly and is a major force behind global socioeconomic development. In terms of commercial volume, it has eclipsed sectors such as food items, oil exports, and autos. In many developing nations, tourism is a key source of income and makes a considerable contribution to global trade. Increased competitiveness and variety among destinations are the results of this expansion. Furthermore, the growth of tourism has improved the economy and created jobs in several industries, such as telecommunications, construction, and agriculture. Similar effects of tourism have been seen in India, where it has fueled economic expansion and created job possibilities.

General Impacts

Tourism in India has significant impacts:

1. Income and Employment: It generates income, and employment, and helps alleviate poverty. It contributes 6.23% to the national GDP and employs 8.78% of the population.

2. Foreign Exchange Earnings: Tourism is a major source of foreign exchange earnings, benefiting the country's balance of payments. It generated about US$100 billion in 2008 and is projected to reach US$275.5 billion by 2018.

3. Heritage and Environmental Preservation: Tourism helps preserve historical sites and natural habitats of endangered species. Efforts by the Tourism Department have prevented the decay and destruction of important sites like the Taj Mahal and the Qutab Minar.

4. Infrastructure Development: Tourism encourages the development of various infrastructures, including transportation, healthcare facilities, and sports centres. It also boosts the growth of other productive activities.

5. Peace and Stability: Tourism can promote peace, stability, and cross-cultural awareness. It creates jobs, generates income, diversifies the economy, and protects the environment. Addressing challenges like crime and corruption is crucial to fully realize these benefits.

 

Typology of Tourism Impacts

The impacts of tourism can be sorted into six general categories:

1. Economic

2. Environmental

3. Social and Cultural

4. Services

5. Taxes

6. Community Attitude

Economic Impact:-

· Tourism has a positive economic impact by increasing employment opportunities and raising the standard of living.

· It helps diversify rural areas that rely on a single industry and stimulates investment, development, and infrastructure spending.

· Tourism leads to improvements in public utilities, transport infrastructure, and retail establishments.

· It generates tax revenues, particularly through lodging and sales taxes, as well as air travel, transportation, business, and fuel taxes.

· However, it should be noted that tourism jobs often have low wages, are seasonal, and can result in under-employment or unemployment during off-seasons.

· There may be increased costs of living due to greater demand for goods, services, land, and housing.

· Tourism businesses may occupy land that could have had higher-value uses, and profits may be exported out of the community by non-local owners and corporations.

· The community may need to generate additional funds, potentially through increased taxes, to maintain infrastructure and services due to the higher usage associated with tourism.

 

 

Environmental Impact:-

· Tourism in areas with valuable natural resources such as oceans, lakes, waterfalls, mountains, unique flora, and fauna has an environmental impact.

· Tourists and new residents are attracted to these areas due to their scenic beauty and the desire for emotional and spiritual connections with nature.

· The value placed on nature by these individuals often leads to the preservation, protection, and prevention of further ecological decline in selected natural environments.

· Lands that could have been developed are instead used for recreational activities, generating income for the community.

· Tourist income can also contribute to the preservation and restoration of historic buildings and monuments.

· Enhancements to the area's appearance, including cleanup, repairs, and the addition of public art such as murals, water fountains, and monuments, benefit both tourists and residents.

· Tourism is generally considered a "clean" industry as it primarily revolves around hotels, restaurants, shops, and attractions rather than factories.

Social and Cultural Impact: -

1. Tourism can have both positive and negative social and cultural impacts on communities. It brings in diverse values and influences behaviours, which can either enhance or detract from community life.

2. Interactions between residents and tourists can lead to new opportunities for creative expression or restrict individuality.

3. Increased tourism can lead to changes in moral conduct, such as improved understanding between sexes or increased illicit drug use.

4. Tourism can have both positive and negative effects on safety and health facilities, with increases in staffing but also an increase in safety problems such as crime and accidents.

5. Tourism can improve the quality of life by increasing attractions, recreational opportunities, and services, and by offering residents the chance to meet interesting people and learn about different cultures. It can also support the preservation of historical artefacts and architecture. However, establishing a tourism industry requires both expenditure and benefits.

Services:-

1. Tourism provides opportunities to develop new amenities and recreation facilities that may not exist otherwise, enhancing the availability of recreational opportunities.

2. The presence of tourists can lead to upgraded services provided by local businesses, such as shops and restaurants, raising the overall standard of services in the community.

3. Tourism can improve the quality of fire protection, as resources are allocated to ensure the safety of both tourists and residents.

4. The quality of police protection can also be enhanced in response to the presence of tourists, resulting in increased safety for both visitors and locals.

5. Tourism generates economic activity, which can contribute to the overall development of infrastructure and services, benefiting the community as a whole.

Taxes: -

1. Tourism generates additional state and local sales tax revenue through increased retail activity from restaurants and tourist shopping.

2. Lodging tax revenue to the city or state is expected to increase as travellers contribute to lodging taxes.

3. The expansion of infrastructure and public services to accommodate tourism may lead to increased property taxes for property owners as a means to cover the associated tax burdens.

Community Attitude:-

1. Visitor interest and satisfaction in the community boost local pride, making residents more appreciative of local resources.

2. Tourism development leads to the availability of more facilities and a wider range of choices for local residents, enhancing their quality of life.

3. Tourism activities and events make living in the community more interesting and exciting.

4. However, tensions can arise between tourism supporters and non-supporters, as well as between residents and tourists, leading to community divisiveness.

5. Overemphasis on catering to tourist tastes may result in a superficial or artificial cultural representation, causing a loss of authenticity and potentially alienating residents.

 

Q 1. Define Tourism?

Tourism is the temporary movement of people to destinations outside their usual environment for leisure, business, and other purposes. The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) defines tourism as "the activities of persons travelling to and staying in places outside their usual environment for not more than one consecutive year for leisure, business and other purposes."

 

Q2. How much proportion does Tourism contribute to India’s GDP?

Ans - The tourism sector in India contributed around 5.8 per cent to the total GDP of the country in 2021. This amounted to over 13 billion Indian rupees an increase of nearly 44 per cent compared to the previous year.

The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) estimates that the tourism sector will contribute 9.6% to India's GDP in 2023, and 10.3% in 2024. This would create 38.6 million jobs in the tourism sector in 2023, and 40.2 million jobs in 2024.

 

Q3. Which industry has surpassed the business volume of oil exports, food products and automobiles?

Ans-  The industry that has surpassed the business volume of oil exports, food products, and automobiles is the tourism industry.

Q4. What sources are helping the government with the funds to manage natural resources?

Ans-  The sources that are helping the government with funds to manage natural resources are the income generated from tourism and the tourist industry. The revenue generated through tourist activities, such as accommodations, restaurants, shops, and attractions, can be used by the government to preserve and protect natural environments and manage the resources effectively.

Q5. Name the various impacts which have laid down the needs of the Tourism industry?

 

Ans- The tourism industry has emerged and grown due to various factors and impacts. Here are some of the key reasons that have laid down the need for the tourism industry:

1. Economic impact: Tourism contributes significantly to the economy of many countries and regions. It generates revenue through various channels such as accommodation, transportation, attractions, restaurants, and retail. It creates job opportunities, stimulates local businesses, and contributes to the overall economic growth.

 

2. Employment opportunities: The tourism industry is a major source of employment, providing jobs directly and indirectly. It offers diverse employment opportunities in sectors such as hospitality, travel agencies, tour operators, airlines, restaurants, and local businesses.

3. Cultural exchange and understanding: Tourism promotes cultural exchange and understanding between different regions and countries. It allows people to experience different cultures, traditions, and ways of life, fostering mutual respect and appreciation. This can lead to improved international relations and global harmony.

 

4. Preservation of natural and cultural heritage: Tourism can create awareness and incentives for the preservation of natural and cultural heritage sites. By visiting these sites, tourists contribute to their conservation and maintenance. This helps protect important landmarks, historical sites, ecosystems, and wildlife.

5. Infrastructure development: The development of tourism infrastructure, such as airports, roads, hotels, and recreational facilities, often goes hand in hand with the growth of the tourism industry. These infrastructure developments not only benefit tourists but also improve the quality of life for local residents.

6. Environmental conservation: Tourism can promote environmental conservation and sustainability by raising awareness about the importance of preserving natural resources. Sustainable tourism practices aim to minimize negative environmental impacts and promote responsible travel, ensuring the long-term viability of destinations.

7. Socio-cultural benefits: Tourism can bring social and cultural benefits to host communities. It can enhance local pride and cultural identity, revitalize traditional arts and crafts, support local festivals and events, and improve community facilities and services.

8. Economic diversification: Tourism offers an opportunity for economic diversification, particularly for regions heavily dependent on specific industries. It allows communities to tap into their unique attractions, resources, and cultural heritage to create alternative revenue streams.

9. Infrastructure and technology advancements: The demand from tourists often drives advancements in infrastructure and technology. This includes the development of transportation systems, communication networks, hospitality services, and digital platforms that facilitate travel and enhance the overall tourist experience.

10. Personal enrichment and well-being: Tourism provides opportunities for personal enrichment, leisure, relaxation, and escape from daily routines. It allows individuals to explore new destinations, engage in recreational activities, and create lasting memories, contributing to their overall well-being and quality of life.

It's important to note that while tourism brings numerous benefits, there can also be negative impacts, such as overcrowding, environmental degradation, cultural commodification, and social inequalities. The tourism industry must adopt sustainable practices and ensure responsible management to mitigate these negative effects and maximize the positive impacts.

2.5 Sources of Tourism Information

Access to current, accurate, and relevant tourism information is vital for industry professionals. It is the foundation for developing itineraries, creating tour products, and ensuring successful sales. To stay knowledgeable, industry personnel utilize various sources such as industry people, launches, seminars, and personal experiences. Accessing these sources is essential to understand the wide range of information available and effectively serve customers.

Industry people

v - Industry professionals in the travel and tourism industry rely on various sources to expand and update their destination knowledge.

v - Sales representatives, employed by industry principals, tour wholesalers, tour operators, and national tourism organizations, visit other industry firms, particularly retail travel agents, to distribute the latest information on tourism destinations and products.

v - Tour wholesalers often organize destination and product launches to introduce new offerings to professionals in different sectors of the travel and tourism industry. These launches typically occur when new tour brochures are being distributed.

v - Seminars and workshops organized by travel and tourism firms and organizations are held to enhance the knowledge of industry personnel regarding destinations and products.

v - Educational and familiarization visits, known as "family," as well as site inspections, are undertaken by industry personnel to improve their understanding. These experiences are often provided by principals, tour wholesalers, or tour operators.

v - Informal discussions with well-traveled colleagues, customers, and others serve as a valuable source of current destination information. Personal travel experiences offer an even greater depth of knowledge and understanding.

Example: A sales representative from a tour operator visits a retail travel agency to provide the latest brochures and information on a newly launched tour package. They engage in discussions with travel agents, sharing insights about the destination, its attractions, and the unique experiences included in the tour. Meanwhile, a tour wholesaler organizes a destination launch event, inviting professionals from different sectors of the industry to learn about the new destinations and products available for the upcoming year. In addition, industry personnel have opportunities to attend seminars and workshops focused on destinations and products, further expanding their knowledge. To enhance their understanding, professionals may undertake educational visits and site inspections arranged by principals or tour wholesalers. Informal discussions with colleagues who have travelled extensively, as well as personal travel experiences, contribute to their wealth of current destination information.

Brochures, Journals and Media

 

v - National tourism organizations (NTOs) and government bodies provide agent's manuals, maps, videos, and other destination-specific information to distribute to industry professionals.

v - Trade journals such as Travel Trade and Travel Week offer destination and product updates, keeping industry personnel informed.

v - General media, including newspapers, journals, and television, serves as an important source of current destination information. Travel industry professionals must stay updated on world news, as it can impact tourism products and services. Many newspapers and journals have dedicated travel sections, while television offers travel shows and documentaries that provide valuable visual information.

v - Tour brochures and industry publications, including in-flight magazines, are rich sources of destination information, offering comprehensive details and insights.

 

v Example: A national tourism organization releases an agent's manual, containing detailed information about a destination's attractions, accommodations, and activities, which is distributed to travel agents. Trade journals like Travel Trade and Travel Week publish regular updates on destinations and new products, keeping industry professionals informed. Newspaper travel sections feature articles on popular tourist destinations, while television broadcasts travel shows and documentaries that showcase specific places. Travel industry professionals also rely on tour brochures, which provide comprehensive information about destinations and serve as marketing tools for tour operators. In-flight magazines offer engaging articles and visuals that inspire travellers and provide destination information during their journeys.

Publications

v - Atlases, maps, and publications with maps are essential for understanding the spatial relationships between places and forming travel itineraries. Maps provide valuable information such as distances between destinations, which is crucial for planning travel times.

v - Guidebooks, reference books, and destination publications are widely used by industry personnel. Industry-specific publications like The World Travel Guide, Travel Trade Visa Guide, and TIM (Travel Information Manual) provide information on entry requirements, customs regulations, health and safety considerations, and more. Many websites also cover these topics.

v - Travel literature, including personal narratives, memoirs, biographies, and photographic records, offers unique insights into destinations that may not be available elsewhere, enriching destination information.

v - Travel and tourism industry trade shows serve as significant sources of information for industry professionals and the public.

v - Many industry staff members pursue formal studies to enhance their destination knowledge and stay updated.

v - Internet, email, and fax updates on destinations and products are commonly used in the industry to efficiently distribute the latest information to a wide audience.

Example: When planning a trip, a travel agent refers to atlases and maps to understand the geographical layout and distances between destinations. They consult guidebooks, such as The World Travel Guide, to gather information on entry requirements, customs regulations, and health and safety considerations for various countries. To gain a deeper understanding of a destination, they explore travel literature that offers personal accounts and vivid descriptions of specific places or journeys. Attending a travel trade show, they discover new destinations and connect with suppliers. Some agents pursue formal study programs to enhance their destination knowledge, while others rely on internet updates and emails to receive the latest information on destinations and products, enabling them to serve their clients effectively.

 

REVIEW QUESTIONS

1. Name the key sources of tourism information.

The key sources of tourism information include:

1. Industry People: Sales representatives employed by industry principals, tour wholesalers, tour operators, and national tourism organizations who distribute destination and product information to other industry firms, particularly retail travel agents.

2. Destination Launches: Events organized by tour wholesalers to introduce new destinations and products to professionals in different sectors of the travel and tourism industry.

3. Seminars and Workshops: Educational sessions held by travel and tourism firms and organizations, focusing on destinations and products to expand and update industry personnel's knowledge.

4. Educational Visits and Site Inspections: Opportunities for industry personnel to undertake visits and inspections of destinations and sites to improve their knowledge and understanding. These are usually provided by principals, tour wholesalers, or tour operators.

5. Informal Discussions: Engaging in conversations with well-traveled colleagues, customers, and other individuals who can provide valuable insights and current destination information.

6. National Tourism Organizations (NTOs) and Government Bodies: Distributing agent's manuals, maps, videos, and other destination-specific information to industry professionals.

7. Trade Journals and Media: Trade journals like Travel Trade and Travel Week provide destination and product updates, as well as general media such as newspapers, journals, and television, which offer valuable current destination information and travel-related features.

8. Tour Brochures and Industry Publications: Brochures and publications, including in-flight magazines, which contain a wealth of destination information.

9. Atlases, Maps, and Travel Guides: Essential resources for understanding the spatial relationships between places, distances, and itinerary planning.

10. Internet and Online Sources: Websites, email updates, and online platforms that provide up-to-date information on destinations, travel products, and industry news.

These sources collectively contribute to the comprehensive and current tourism information available to industry professionals.

 

2. Measures to expand and update the knowledge of industry personnel?

To expand and update the knowledge of industry personnel in the travel and tourism industry, the following measures can be taken:

1. Educational Programs and Courses: Offering formal educational programs, courses, and certifications specific to the travel and tourism industry. These programs can cover various aspects such as destination knowledge, customer service, marketing, sustainable tourism practices, and industry trends.

2. Workshops and Training Sessions: Conduct workshops and training sessions that focus on destinations, products, emerging trends, and industry best practices. These sessions can be organized by travel and tourism firms, industry associations, or professional development organizations.

3. Familiarization (FAM) Trips: Organizing familiarization trips for industry personnel to visit and experience different destinations firsthand. These trips provide an opportunity to explore attractions, accommodations, and local experiences, enhancing their destination knowledge.

4. Site Inspections and Educational Visits: Arranging site inspections and educational visits to hotels, resorts, tourist attractions, and other relevant locations. This allows industry personnel to gain in-depth knowledge about the facilities, services, and experiences offered.

5. Industry Conferences and Events: Encouraging attendance at industry conferences, trade shows, and events that provide opportunities to learn from industry experts, network with peers, and stay updated on the latest industry developments.

6. Industry Publications and Research: Encouraging industry personnel to stay informed by reading industry publications, research reports, and market studies. These sources provide insights into emerging destinations, market trends, consumer behaviour, and new product developments.

7. Continuous Professional Development: Encouraging continuous professional development through participation in webinars, online courses, and self-study programs. This allows industry personnel to stay updated on industry advancements and expand their knowledge at their own pace.

8. Mentorship and Collaboration: Facilitating mentorship programs and encouraging collaboration between experienced professionals and newcomers in the industry. This fosters knowledge sharing, guidance, and professional growth.

9. Online Resources and Information Portals: Providing access to online resources, databases, and information portals that offer up-to-date destination information, travel trends, industry news, and research findings.

10. Networking Opportunities: Facilitating networking events, forums, and online communities where industry personnel can connect with peers, share experiences, and learn from each other.

By implementing these measures, industry personnel can continuously expand and update their knowledge, ensuring they stay well-informed and equipped to deliver exceptional services in the dynamic travel and tourism industry.

 

3. Name two Travel-Trade Journals.

Two examples of travel-trade journals are:

1. Travel Weekly: Travel Weekly is a leading travel-trade publication that covers news, analysis, trends, and updates from the travel and tourism industry. It provides insights into destinations, hotels, airlines, cruise lines, tour operators, and other key sectors of the travel industry.

2. Travel Trade Gazette (TTG): TTG is another well-known travel-trade journal that delivers news, features, and analysis targeted at professionals in the travel and tourism industry. It covers a wide range of topics, including destination updates, industry trends, technology, and business strategies. TTG also organizes events and awards to recognize excellence in the travel industry.

Both Travel Weekly and Travel Trade Gazette serve as important sources of information for industry professionals, providing them with valuable insights, market updates, and industry developments.

 

4. Expand CRS.

CRS stands for Computer Reservation System.

 A Computer Reservation System (CRS) is a computerized system used in the travel and tourism industry to facilitate the reservation and booking of travel-related services. It is a centralized database that allows travel agents, tour operators, and other industry professionals to access and manage reservations for flights, hotels, car rentals, and other travel services. The CRS serves as a comprehensive platform that enables travel agents to search for availability, compare prices, make bookings, issue tickets, and manage customer information.

CRSs play a vital role in the efficient and seamless operation of the travel industry. They provide real-time access to a wide range of travel options and availability, allowing travel professionals to provide accurate and up-to-date information to their customers. Through a CRS, travel agents can check flight schedules, seat availability, hotel room types, rates, and amenities, making it easier to customize and create travel itineraries based on customer preferences. CRSs also integrate with global distribution systems (GDS) and online travel agencies (OTA), enabling seamless connectivity and distribution of travel inventory.

In addition to reservations and bookings, CRSs offer features like reporting and accounting functionalities, customer profile management, loyalty programs, and ticketing services. They streamline the reservation process, improve efficiency, and enhance customer service by automating tasks and reducing manual errors.

Popular CRS systems used in the travel industry include Amadeus, Sabre, Galileo, and Worldspan. These systems provide a user-friendly interface and access to a vast network of travel suppliers, allowing travel professionals to efficiently manage and fulfil travel requests. CRS technology continues to evolve, incorporating advancements such as mobile compatibility, cloud-based solutions, and integration with other travel technologies.

Overall, CRSs are instrumental in enabling travel professionals to efficiently handle reservations, deliver personalized services, and ensure a smooth travel experience for their customers.

 

5. Name the source of Tourism Information which includes biographies and

photographic records of specific places or journeys.

The source of tourism information that includes biographies and photographic records of specific places or journeys is travel literature. Travel literature encompasses various forms of written works, including personal travel narratives, memoirs, guidebooks, and travelogues. These literary works often provide vivid descriptions, personal experiences, and historical context of destinations, offering readers a deeper understanding of the places being portrayed.

Travel literature not only captures the physical aspects of a destination but also delves into the cultural, social, and emotional dimensions of travel. Biographies within travel literature may focus on renowned explorers, adventurers, or notable figures associated with specific places, providing insights into their journeys, discoveries, and interactions with the local environment and communities.

 

Photographic records play an integral role in travel literature as well. Images accompanying travel narratives offer visual representations of the destinations, showcasing their landscapes, architecture, people, and unique experiences. These photographs bring the written words to life, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the depicted places and journeys.

By exploring travel literature, readers can access a wealth of information, personal perspectives, and visual documentation of specific destinations, enhancing their knowledge and understanding of different places around the world.

2.6 Tourism Organisations

Ministry of Tourism

I. - The Ministry of Tourism is responsible for formulating national policies and programs and coordinating activities related to tourism development and promotion in India.

II. - The ministry is headed by the Union Minister of State for Tourism (Independent Charge).

III. - The administrative head of the ministry is the Secretary (Tourism), who also acts as the Director General (DG) of Tourism.

IV. - The Directorate General of Tourism, which is now merged with the office of the Secretary (Tourism), provides executive directions for policy implementation.

V. - The ministry has field offices within the country and abroad, responsible for tourism promotion, marketing, information services, and project monitoring. The Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering (IISM)/Gulmarg Winter Sports Project is a subordinate office/project under the ministry's purview, focusing on skiing and other courses in Jammu and Kashmir.

 

 

 

 

 

Role and Functions of the Ministry of Tourism

 

a) - The Ministry of Tourism serves as the central agency for tourism development in the country, coordinating efforts and supporting state and union territory governments.

b) - Its functions include policy development, investment facilitation, planning, coordination with other ministries and governments, regulation, infrastructure and product development, human resource development, publicity and marketing, research and evaluation, international cooperation, legislation and parliamentary work, establishment and vigilance matters, implementation of official language policy, budget coordination, and plan monitoring.

c) - The ministry formulates development policies, incentives, and guidelines, and provides external assistance and manpower development in the tourism sector.

d) - It facilitates investment in the tourism industry and plays a role in planning tourism initiatives.

e) - The ministry regulates standards and guidelines for the industry, oversees infrastructure and product development, and focuses on human resource development through institutions and setting industry standards.

f) - It handles publicity and marketing strategies, research, analysis, monitoring, and evaluation of tourism initiatives.

g) - The ministry engages in international cooperation, establishes bilateral agreements, and facilitates external assistance and foreign technical collaboration.

h) - It carries out legislative and parliamentary work, oversees establishment and vigilance matters, and ensures the implementation of the official language policy.

i) - Budget coordination and plan monitoring are also part of the ministry's responsibilities to ensure the effective implementation of tourism-related initiatives

 

STDC

l - STDC (State Tourism Development Corporation) is a state-level corporation in India responsible for tourism development within the state.

l - The vision of STDC is to become a leading service provider in the hospitality sector, while the mission is to expand quality tourism infrastructure and provide world-class facilities to tourists.

l - The objectives of STDC include establishing, developing, promoting, and operating tourism projects, maintaining tourist information bureaux, publishing promotional material, and managing tourist accommodations.

l - The role of STDC in promoting tourism includes initiating the tourism development process, expanding tourism dispersal, generating employment, contributing to state revenue, facilitating travel for tourists, ensuring safe stays, and serving as the official host of the government.

UNWTO

l - UNWTO (United Nations World Tourism Organization) is a United Nations agency responsible for promoting responsible, sustainable, and universally accessible tourism.

l - It serves as the leading international organization in the tourism field, advocating tourism as a driver of economic growth, inclusive development, and environmental sustainability.

l - UNWTO promotes the implementation of the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism and works towards achieving the United Nations Millennium Development Goals, focusing on poverty reduction and sustainable development.

l - The organization generates market knowledge, supports competitive and sustainable tourism policies, provides tourism education and training, and implements technical assistance projects in over 100 countries.

l - UNWTO has 156 member countries, 6 territories, and over 400 affiliate members, representing the private sector, educational institutions, tourism associations, and local tourism authorities. Its headquarters are located in Madrid, Spain.

REVIEW QUESTIONS

 

1. Who is the head of the MOT?

The head of the MOT is the Union Minister of State for Tourism (Independent Charge). The current Union Minister of State for Tourism (Independent Charge) is Shri. Prahlad Singh Patel.

2. Give any two functions of MOT.

Two functions of the Ministry of Tourism (MOT) are:

1. Policy Formulation: The MOT is responsible for the formulation of national policies related to tourism development and promotion. It plays a crucial role in developing strategies and guidelines to enhance the tourism sector's growth, sustainability, and competitiveness. This includes the development of policies on tourism infrastructure, investment facilitation, promotion and marketing, human resource development, and regulation.

2. Coordination and Collaboration: In the tourist industry, the MOT serves as a nodal body to coordinate efforts between various agencies of the federal government, state governments/UTs, and the private sector. It strives to coordinate the actions of many parties to accomplish shared objectives in the growth of tourism. To guarantee that tourist policies, programs, and projects are implemented effectively at the federal and state levels, the ministry promotes cooperation and collaboration between various institutions.

3. STDC majorly focuses on which country?

The development of tourism within the state of India is the primary emphasis of the STDC (State Tourism Development Corporation). In India, each state has a tourist development council (STDC) that oversees the development of the state's infrastructure for tourism. The STDC's goals are to create and grow tourism initiatives, manage travel agencies, produce travel-related publications, and keep up tourist information centres. The STDC's responsibilities include spearheading the growth of tourism, increasing tourism, creating jobs, boosting state income, assisting travellers, guaranteeing a safe and secure stay, and acting as the state government's official host.

4. Where is the headquarters of UNWTO located?

The headquarters of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) is located in Madrid, Spain.

 

5. How many countries are members of UNWTO?

There are currently 159 Member States of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). These countries represent all regions of the world, and together they account for over 90% of the world's tourist arrivals.

The UNWTO has 6 Associate Members and two Observers in addition to its Member States. Non-state organizations with a strong interest in tourism, such as international travel agencies, regional travel associations, and intergovernmental organizations, are considered Associate Members. Observers are nations that have shown a desire to join the UNWTO but are not yet members.

The UNWTO was established in 1975, and Madrid, Spain, is home to its headquarters. The organization's goal is to advance tourism as a catalyst for social inclusion, economic expansion, and environmental sustainability. UNWTO uses a range of initiatives to carry out this purpose, such as:

· Offering Member States technological support

· Creating rules and standards for tourism · 

Encouraging tourism research and education · 

Enabling global collaboration in tourism 

For nations looking to grow their tourist sectors, UNWTO is an invaluable resource. The organization's resources and experience may assist nations in attracting tourism, generating employment, and strengthening their economies.