XII Notes UNIT–7 GOVERNMENT AND PROFESSIONAL BODIES

UNIT–7 

 GOVERNMENT AND PROFESSIONAL BODIES

 

 

• Ø  Transportation: Makes it possible for visitors to get to and from the location. Travel agencies, airlines, bus companies, tour operators, and automobile rental firms are a few examples.

  Ø  Accommodation: Offers a place to stay for visitors. Hotels, motels, hostels, and vacation rentals are a few examples.

  Ø  Attractions: Bring travelers to the location. Natural marvels, historical landmarks, cultural activities, and entertainment venues are a few examples.

  Ø  Activities: Offer visitors something to do while visiting. Tours, sightseeing, dining, shopping, and leisure are a few examples.

  Ø  Marketing: Draws attention to the location from possible travelers. Social media, public relations, and advertising may all be used to accomplish this.
  
  

  Ø  Government regulation: Keeps an eye on the tourist sector to make sure it's sustainable, safe, and helpful to the community.

National Tourism Organizations (NTOs):

• NTOs are government agencies responsible for promoting and developing tourism in their respective countries.
• NTOs typically have four main areas of responsibility:
• Marketing
• Research and corporate planning
• Development
• Finance and administration

Professional bodies:

• Professional bodies represent the tourism industry and play a role in influencing industry-wide strategies and practices.
• Examples of professional bodies include the International Air Transport Association (IATA), Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI), and American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA).

Conclusion:

The tourist sector is a networked, intricate system. The industry's several parts come together to give visitors a satisfying experience. Professional associations and NTOs are crucial to the growth and development of the sector.

7.1     Integration between Government and Professional Bodies

 

Professional associations and the government must collaborate for the tourist sector to grow efficiently and sustainably. Governments are essential for establishing laws, building infrastructure, and advancing tourism. Conversely, professional associations serve business interests and can offer knowledge and assistance for government programs.

Some of the key benefits of integration between government and professional bodies in tourism development include:

• Cohesive, shared objectives and vision: Integration can help to ensure that all stakeholders are working towards the same goals, such as increasing tourist arrivals, generating revenue, and creating jobs.
• Co-ordination of development and marketing budgets and activities: Integration can lead to more efficient and effective use of resources, as well as more coordinated marketing campaigns.
• Improved communication and understanding: Integration can help to improve communication and understanding between government and the private sector, which can lead to better decision-making and policy formulation.
• Improved resource efficiency: Integration can help to avoid duplication of effort and ensure that resources are used in the most efficient way possible.
• Non-duplication of activities: Integration can help to avoid duplication of activities and ensure that each stakeholder is focused on its core competencies.
• Coordinated research and development activities: Integration can help to coordinate research and development activities in the tourism industry, which can lead to more effective innovation and the development of new and better tourism products and services.
• A collective "voice" for the industry: Integration can give the tourism industry a collective "voice" that can be used to advocate for its interests at the national and international levels.
• Engagement of industry and the community to deliver sustainable tourism objectives: Integration can help to engage the tourism industry and the community in the delivery of sustainable tourism objectives, such as protecting the environment and promoting local culture and heritage.

How to achieve effective integration between government and professional bodies in tourism development

There are a number of things that can be done to achieve effective integration between government and professional bodies in tourism development, including:

• Establish clear roles and responsibilities: It is important to clearly define the roles and responsibilities of government and professional bodies in order to avoid duplication of effort and ensure that all stakeholders are working towards the same goals.
• Develop mechanisms for coordination and cooperation: There should be established mechanisms for coordination and cooperation between government and professional bodies, such as regular meetings, joint committees, and working groups.
• Share information and resources: Government and professional bodies should share information and resources in order to make the most of their respective strengths and capabilities.
• Build trust and understanding: It is important to build trust and understanding between government and professional bodies in order to create an effective working relationship.
• Promote collaboration and innovation: Governments and professional bodies should work together to promote collaboration and innovation in the tourism industry.

By taking these steps, governments and professional bodies can create a more integrated and effective tourism industry that benefits all stakeholders.

7.2     Rules for Setting up Travel Agency & Tour Operators

• Travel agencies and tour operators need to be approved and recognized by various organizations, including the Department of Tourism (Government of India), IATA, TAAI, and IATO.
• The most important approvals are from the Department of Tourism and IATA.
• The government has formulated guidelines and rules for travel trade enterprises to promote and develop tourism in India.
• These rules and guidelines are designed to ensure that travel enterprises operate in an ethical and effective manner.

In other words:

• To start a travel agency or tour operator in India, you need to get approval from the government and IATA.
• The government has rules and guidelines that travel agencies and tour operators need to follow.
• These rules and guidelines are designed to protect consumers and promote sustainable tourism.

7.3     Department of Tourism (DoT) Different Schemes and Policies

 

The Department of Tourism (DoT) has a scheme for recognizing travel agencies and tour operators. The aim of this scheme is to encourage quality standards and service in the tourism industry. To be eligible for recognition, a travel agency or tour operator must meet certain criteria, such as:

• Having been in operation for at least one year
• Having a minimum office space of 250 sq.ft.
• Having a minimum paid-up capital of Rs.3.00 lakhs
• Being approved by IATA or being a GSA/PSA of an IATA member airline
• Having a full-time member with adequate training and experience in the tourism industry
• Employing only qualified guides
• Having a minimum of four qualified staff, of which at least two should have a diploma/degree in travel and tourism
• Outsourcing any services relating to tourists only to approved specialized agencies

Benefits of recognition:

• Travel agencies and tour operators that are recognized by the DoT are entitled to such incentives and concessions as may be granted by the government from time to time.
• Recognition also helps to establish the credibility and trustworthiness of a travel agency or tour operator.

Procedure for recognition:

Travel agencies and tour operators can seek recognition by sending an application to the Additional Director General, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, New Delhi, along with the necessary supporting documentation. A committee comprising the relevant regional director and a TAAI member will assess the application. The travel agency or tour operator will receive recognition for five years if their application is accepted. Renewing recognition for an additional five years is possible.

Conclusion:

The Department of Transportation (DOT) recognizes travel agencies and tour operators as key to enhancing quality standards and service in the tourism industry, offering them incentives and concessions.

IATA Approval for Travel Agency/ Tour Operator:

**IATA Approval for Travel Agency/Tour Operator:**

 

- **Purpose**: Travel and tour companies seeking to operate as sales agents and issue airline tickets require approval and recognition from the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

 **Global Requirement**: IATA approval is necessary for travel agencies and tour operators in most countries, except the United States, where the Air Transport Conference (ATC) recognition is required, and ATC is recognized by IATA.

- **Key Rules for Recognition in India**:

    1. Applications for recognition should be addressed to the Director, Agency Investigation Panel (AIP) at IATA in New Delhi, India.

    2. Application for approval should be submitted using the prescribed form.

    3. The objective of recognition is to promote and develop the travel industry in the country.

    4. Companies should have been in business for at least one year.

    5. A minimum of two staff members must be qualified from IATA-approved institutions.

    6. Sound financial credibility is a requirement.

    7. The agency's location must be easily accessible and identifiable to tourists.

    8. Security for the control of airline ticket stock is necessary.

    9. The agency should have the ability to generate business.

    10. Recognized companies are entitled to specific rights and privileges granted by the association and must abide by prescribed terms and conditions.

    11. An audited annual report must be attached to the application form.

    12. The agency must provide a statement of international sales with the application.

    13. The decision of IATA on recognition is final, and the association may refuse recognition without assigning a reason.

    14. IATA reserves the right to withdraw recognition at any time without assigning a reason.

    15. Ethical standards in the tourism business should be maintained.

    16. IATA recognition doesn't automatically entitle the agency to approval from other organizations or associations.

 

- **Approval Process**: Once approved, travel agencies receive IATA applicant status for six months and must submit monthly productivity reports to the Agency Investigation Panel (AIP). Various committees and sub-committees evaluate the agency before recommending it for final approval. A bank guarantee is required, usually equivalent to four weeks' productivity level.

 

- **Benefits of IATA Approval**:

    - Allows travel agencies to sell and purchase domestic and international airline tickets.

    - Grants the privilege of holding international air ticket stocks of IATA members.

    - Provides training facilities for agency staff.

    - Allows the use of the IATA logo.

    - Aids in marketing products.

    - Offers a platform for resolving travel-related issues.

    - Helps establish credibility and integrity in the field of tourism.

 

These notes provide an overview of the requirements and benefits of obtaining IATA approval for travel agencies and tour operators.

7.4     Professional Bodies and their Activities

 

 UFTAA (United Federation of Travel Agents' Associations):

 

**UFTAA (United Federation of Travel Agents' Associations):**

 

- **Origin**: UFTAA originated from the Universal Federation of Travel Agents' Associations, established in Rome, Italy, on November 22, 1966.

 

- **General Secretariat**: In 1989, UFTAA established its General Secretariat in the Principality of Monaco.

 

- **Confederation Status**: UFTAA transitioned into a Confederation on January 1, 2003. It is a non-profit Confederation with international scope, representing Regional Federations consisting of approximately 80 national associations.

 

- **Representation**: UFTAA serves as a global body representing the travel agency and tourism industry. It effectively advocates for the views of Travel Agents and Tour Operators, encompassing both Inbound and Outbound travel.

 

- **Collaboration**: UFTAA engages in continuous dialogue and consultation with various international organizations, including IATA (International Air Transport Association), IH&RA (International Hotel and Restaurant Association), IUR (International Union of Railways), IRU (International Road Union), and ICC (International Chamber of Commerce).

 

- **International Engagement**: UFTAA has consultative status with the UN/NGO/ECOSOC and collaborates with organizations like UNESCO and WHO to promote sustainable and responsible tourism. It is also an affiliate member of the World Tourism Organization (WTO) and its Business Council (WTOBC).

 

- **Mission**: UFTAA's mission is to serve as an international forum addressing matters concerning the global travel industry. It represents and defends the interests of incoming and outgoing tour operators, travel and tourism agencies before governmental bodies, suppliers, and international entities. It aims to enhance the image of its members and promote sustainable tourism.

 

- **Functions**: To fulfil its mission, UFTAA performs various functions, including uniting and consolidating the Federations of Travel Agents' National Associations, representing travel agents' activities on the global stage, working on measures to facilitate travel for consumers, offering investigative and information services, providing voluntary arbitration mechanisms for dispute resolution, and organizing world congresses and meetings for knowledge exchange.

 

- **Affiliates and Members**: UFTAA's stakeholders include affiliates such as individual travel agencies, hotels, and tourist offices, while members comprise national or regional associations in the travel and tourism sector.

 

These notes provide an overview of UFTAA, its history, mission, functions, and international engagement in the travel and tourism industry.

 

2.       PATA

 

**Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA):**

 

- **Foundation**: PATA was founded in 1951, and it continues to be a leading authority, advocate, and catalyst for the responsible development of the travel and tourism industry in the Asia Pacific region.

 

- **Membership Association**: PATA is a membership association that plays a key role in the responsible development of the Asia Pacific travel and tourism industry. It achieves this by working in partnership with both private and public sector members.

 

- **Sustainable Growth**: PATA's primary focus is on enhancing sustainable growth, value, and quality in travel and tourism within the Asia Pacific region.

 

- **Membership Structure**: PATA has a unique membership structure that includes public-sector tourism organizations, air, land, and sea carriers, as well as various organizations involved in the production, distribution, financing, consulting, education, and other technical aspects of the travel industry.

 

- **Global Network**: PATA's impact is global, with thousands of travel professionals belonging to a network of PATA chapters. These chapters collaborate to promote responsible and sustainable travel and tourism.

 

- **Advocacy**: PATA provides leadership and advocacy for the efforts of government, state, and city tourism bodies, more than 55 airlines and cruise lines, and hundreds of travel industry companies.

 

- **Code of Ethics**: PATA is committed to promoting integrity within the travel and tourism industry. Members are expected to conduct themselves and their business activities in line with the principles of the PATA Code of Ethics, which includes promoting ethics, striving for excellence, protecting the public against fraud, providing accurate information, cooperating with other members, avoiding conflicts of interest, and adhering to legal standards.

 

PATA serves as a catalyst for the responsible development of the travel and tourism industry in the Asia Pacific region and upholds high ethical standards within the industry.

 

3.       ASTA

 

American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA):

 

**American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA):**

 

- **Largest Association**: ASTA, the American Society of Travel Agents, is the largest association of travel professionals in the world. It was founded in 1931 as the American Steamship and Tourist Agents' Association.

 

- **Mission**: The mission of ASTA and its affiliated organizations is to facilitate the business of selling travel. They achieve this mission through effective representation, shared knowledge, and the enhancement of professionalism within the travel industry.

 

- **Global Presence**: ASTA and its affiliates comprise the world's largest and most influential travel trade association, with members in 140 countries. This global presence allows ASTA to have a broad impact on the travel industry.

 

- **Key Activities**:

  - *Industry Affairs*: ASTA is involved in ensuring fair competition throughout the travel industry, benefiting both industry professionals and consumers.

  - *Education*: ASTA provides its members with education and information resources to offer professional service to clients. It offers a home-study program to expand businesses and sell unique travel experiences.

  - *Consumer Affairs*: ASTA monitors the travel industry to identify unethical practices that harm consumers and the industry. Only ASTA members subscribe to a 13-point code of ethics for "Integrity in Travel."

  - *Consumer Awareness*: ASTA promotes the benefits of using a travel professional for travel arrangements through advertising and public relations efforts.

 

- **Membership Categories**: ASTA's members include travel agencies, as well as travel suppliers like airlines, hotels, car rental firms, cruise lines, and tour operators. It also offers membership categories for students, travel schools, retired travel professionals, retail travel sellers, and others.

 

ASTA is dedicated to enhancing the travel industry's professionalism, protecting consumers, and promoting the value of using travel professionals for travel arrangements.

 

4.       TAAI

 

**Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI):**

 

- **Formation**: TAAI was established in 1951 by a group of twelve prominent travel agents. Its primary aim was to create an association to regulate the travel industry in India.

 

- **Objectives**:

  - *Protect Interests*: TAAI's core objective is to protect the interests of those involved in the travel industry.

  - *Promote Growth*: It aims to promote the orderly growth and development of the travel industry in India.

  - *Safeguard Rights*: TAAI works to safeguard the rights of the traveling public.

 

- **Representation**: TAAI is recognized as the voice of the travel and tourism industry in India and represents professionalism, ethics, and dynamism in the nation's travel-related activities.

 

- **Membership**: TAAI has a membership database with over 2,300 active members, including IATA accredited Travel Agencies, Airlines & General Sales Agencies, Hotels, and Tour operators. It is the largest Travel Association in India.

 

- **Endeavors**:

  - *Technical Skills*: TAAI encourages its members to apply superior technical skills to their work.

  - *Quality Service*: Members are expected to deliver the highest quality of service.

  - *Financial Responsibility*: Acting with responsibility within sound financial parameters is emphasized.

  - *Trust and Credibility*: Building trust and credibility in the marketplace is a key endeavor.

  - *Supporting Values and Change*: TAAI aims to fulfill its mission while supporting traditional values and embracing change.

 

- **Objectives**:

  - *National Membership*: TAAI works towards having a committed national membership.

  - *Influence Expansion*: It aims to widen its area of influence by delegating authority and responsibility to Regions, Chapters, and City Committees.

  - *Professional Management*: TAAI strives for professional management of its affairs at all levels.

  - *Well-Equipped Secretariat*: A responsive and well-equipped Secretariat benefits all members.

 

TAAI plays a significant role in regulating and promoting the travel industry in India, while also upholding professional and ethical standards.

 

5.       IATO

 

1. **Introduction**

   - IATO: Indian Association of Tour Operators

   - Founded on January 13, 1982, with seven members

   - Now has over 4000 members from various segments of the tourism industry

   - Represents travel agents, hotels, airlines, government tourism departments, educational institutions, transport operators, and national/international tour operators

   - Has international recognition and connections with other Tourism Associations

2. **Government Interaction**

   - Acts as a liaison between the tourism industry and the Indian Government

   - Collaborates with government ministries/departments, chambers of commerce, and diplomatic missions

   - Prioritizes tourism facilitation and addresses critical industry issues

 

3. **Ethical Standards and Social Responsibility**

   - Members uphold high standards of professional ethics and offer personalized service

   - Actively involved in social responsibility, including support during national emergencies and calamities

   - Contributions to the National Defense Fund and other relief efforts

 

4. **Membership Categories**

   - Five categories: Active, Allied, Associate, International, and Honorary

   - Active members approved by the Indian government's Department of Tourism and have at least three years of experience in handling international tourists

 

5. **Aims and Objectives of IATO**

   - Promote national integration, welfare, and goodwill

   - Foster the development of tourism across India and ensure the welfare of the tourism trade

   - Collaborate with various bodies, both in India and internationally, to support the travel trade

   - Foster friendly relations among tour operators and travel agents

   - Resolve disputes among members and protect their interests

   - Maintain high ethical standards in the industry

 

6. **Additional Objectives**

   - Undertake welfare activities that members cannot undertake individually

   - Seek affiliation with similar organizations in other countries

   - Promote equal opportunities for all tourists regardless of race, color, creed, or nationality

   - Organize overseas promotional tours with airlines and the Indian government's tourist office

   - Conduct seminars, group discussions, and cultural meetings

   - Institute awards for excellence in tourism-related activities

   - Provide scholarships to students for higher education and research in tourism development

   - Institute chairs and fellowships

   - Mediate and take legal action when necessary to address problems affecting tourism services

   - Produce regular reports on member achievements

   - Publish information materials for the benefit of its members

 

These notes provide an overview of the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), its history, objectives, and its role in the Indian tourism industry.

 

6.       ATOAI

Title: ATOAI (Adventure Tour Operators' Association of India)

 

- **Formation and Growth**

  - ATOAI: Adventure Tour Operators' Association of India

  - Established in 1994 with a few members

  - In 2011, it has over 150 members from India and abroad

  - Aims to promote Adventure and Eco Tourism in India

 

- **Objectives**

  - Create awareness about the potential for adventure tourism in India

  - Promote adventure tourism in a safe, sensitive, and environmentally friendly manner

  - Members recognized by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India

 

- **Activities**

  - Activities include trekking, mountaineering, rafting, water sports, safaris, biking, sailing, ballooning, gliding, skiing, wildlife safaris, fishing, scuba diving, tribal tours, and heli skiing

 

- **Key Objectives**

  - Promote national integration, international welfare, and goodwill

  - Provide scholarships for higher education and research in Adventure Tourism

  - Institute chairs and fellowships in India

  - Conduct seminars, discussions, and cultural events to promote adventure tourism

  - Encourage, develop, and secure the welfare of the Adventure Tourism industry

  - Foster interaction among adventure tour operators and travel agents

  - Ensure equal opportunities for all tourists regardless of race, color, creed, or nationality

  - Maintain high ethical standards in the industry

  - Undertake welfare activities collectively

  - Collaborate with various organizations, including government departments, to promote members' interests

  - Seek affiliations with similar organizations globally

  - Regularly report on member achievements and work toward association objectives

 

ATOAI is a vital organization actively promoting adventure tourism in India and working toward responsible, safe, and enjoyable adventure experiences for tourists.

7.       ADTOI

Title: ADTOI (Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India)

 

- **Formation and Purpose**

  - ADTOI: Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India

  - Established on August 7, 1996

  - Dedicated to consolidating the efforts of domestic tour operators promoting domestic tourism in India

  - Currently, 400 members across India with plans to expand

 

- **Objectives**

  - Coordinating with government ministries to enhance domestic tourism development by providing facilities (Suvidha), safety (Suraksha), and information (Soochna)

  - Fostering healthy relations among tour operators, travel agents, and other tourism industry entities

  - Formulating a code of conduct for various booking and transaction procedures

  - Establishing communication channels with government departments and promoting domestic tourism

  - Encouraging environment protection, cultural exchange, and national integration

  - Promoting eco-friendliness and a clean environment

  - Aiming for accreditation to instill confidence in travel service buyers

 

- **Membership Criteria**

  - Enrolls members involved in various aspects of domestic tourism:

    - Regional Tourist Corporations

    - Travel Portals

    - Hotels & Resorts

    - Railways & Airlines

    - Tourism Institutes

    - Tourism Expo Companies

 

ADTOI plays a crucial role in enhancing domestic tourism in India, fostering industry relationships, ensuring customer satisfaction, and promoting responsible travel and eco-friendliness.

 

8.       TAFI

 

Title: TAFI (Travel Agents Federation of India)

 

- **Establishment and Purpose**

  - TAFI: Travel Agents Federation of India

  - Founded in 1986

  - Guides and coordinates the travel industry in India

  - A non-political, non-commercial, not-for-profit organization

  - 1400 members from various categories across India

  - Proud member of World Travel Agents Associations Alliance (WTAAA)

  - Affiliate member of the Southern African Tourism Services Association (SATSA)

  - Agreement with the Federation of Hoteliers and Restaurant Association of India (FHRAI)

  - Committed to creating a stable environment and enhancing the travel trade

 

- **Aims and Objectives**

  - Protect the interests of the travel industry, promote orderly growth, and safeguard travelers from exploitation

  - Maintain high ethical standards and improve service quality

  - Enhance awareness and information on travel for travelers in India and abroad

  - Promote cooperation among TAFI members and ensure industry growth

  - Represent the travel agents' trade before official bodies and airline associations

  - Develop schemes for mutual benefits and growth of the travel industry

  - Safeguard the interests of travel agents in dealings with service providers and authorities

  - Ensure compliance with regulations and guidelines from consulates, government authorities, and airlines

 

- **Key Activities**

  - Foster fellowship among members

  - Offer memberships under different categories to unite segments of the travel industry

  - Educate and prepare members for industry challenges through meetings, seminars, and conventions

  - Establish partnerships with Tourism Boards

  - Collaborate with organizations like FICCI and CII

  - Gain recognition by the Government of India's Monitoring Panels

  - Represent Agency Programme Joint Council (APJC) and work closely with the Council of Airlines

  - Maintain global contacts and address matters affecting India's travel industry

 

TAFI plays a pivotal role in promoting ethical practices, industry growth, and cooperation among travel agents in India while safeguarding the interests of both the industry and travelers.

9.       FIYTO

 

Title: FIYTO (Federation of International Youth Travel Organisation) and WYSETC (World Youth Student and Educational Travel Confederation) - Short Notes

 

**FIYTO (Federation of International Youth Travel Organisation)**

 

- Founded post-World War II to inspire young people through international travel and cultural exchange.

- Promoted youth mobility, language acquisition, cultural tourism, and personal growth opportunities.

- Offered identity cards to youth members for access to tourism facilities and leisure activities.

- Had members in 54 countries and published "Youth Travel International."

- Headquartered in Copenhagen, Denmark.

- Advocated for flexible and affordable travel services.

- Merged with ISTC in 2006 to form WYSETC.

 

**WYSETC (World Youth Student and Educational Travel Confederation)**

 

- Committed to understanding the changing characteristics, motivations, and needs of young travelers.

- Works with global partners to promote the benefits of youth travel and international education.

- Supports the development and success of student and youth travel specialists.

- Provides platforms for trading, networking, and knowledge-sharing.

- Develops innovative travel and educational products and services, including the International Student Identity Card (ISIC).

- Organizes trade conferences like WYSTC and WETM-IAC.

- Conducts research and provides market intelligence on the needs and trends of independent travelers.

- Offers best practice guidelines and represents members at industry events worldwide.

 

WYSETC continues the legacy of FIYTO by promoting youth mobility, travel, and education, while adapting to the evolving needs of young travelers in the modern world.