Tourism And Its Impact On Social And Economic Development In India

INTRODUCTION

Today, tourism is one of the largest and dynamically developing sectors of external economic activities. Its high growth and development rates, considerable volumes of foreign currency inflows, infrastructure development, and introduction of new management and educational experience actively affect various sectors of economy, which positively contribute to the social and economic development of the country as a whole. According to recent statistics, tourism provides about 10% of the world’s income and employs almost one tenth of the world’s workforce. Many people emphasize the positive aspects of tourism as a source of foreign exchange, a way to balance foreign trade, an “industry without chimney” — in short, manna from heaven. For decades tourism industry growth has been a major contributor to increased economic activity throughout the world. It has created jobs in both large and small communities and is a major industry in many places. It is the dominant economic activity in some communities. The slogan ‘AthithiDevoBhava’ which means ‘guests are like God’ truly represents the fact that Indians have been highly hospitable people and this trend is still present in modern India. A guest is considered as highly revered person. Intricate arrangements are generally made for a guest who visits somebody’s home for a holiday or other reasons. The family plans well for the comfortable stay of a guest. More to this still the best crockery and bed sheets are kept in