Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Post-Independence India witnessed a slow and often overlooked development of its tourism sector. Initially, nation-building priorities focused on industrialization, agriculture, and social welfare, relegating tourism to a secondary position. The early decades were characterized by limited infrastructure, a lack of promotional efforts, and a prevailing mindset that viewed tourism as a luxury rather than a potential economic driver. However, the inherent cultural and geographical diversity of India gradually began to attract a small but growing number of international visitors, laying the foundation for a future industry. The author, in describing this period, would likely highlight the initial inertia and the subsequent, albeit gradual, awakening to the potential of tourism.
Early Years (1947-1980): Neglect and Initial Steps
The immediate post-Independence period saw minimal government focus on tourism. The prevailing economic conditions and political priorities meant that resources were scarce. Infrastructure, particularly transportation and accommodation, was underdeveloped. The focus was largely on pilgrimage tourism, with sites like Varanasi and Tirupati attracting domestic visitors. International tourism was limited, primarily consisting of those with specific interests in Indian culture or spirituality. The author would likely emphasize the lack of a cohesive national tourism policy during this time.
- Five-Year Plans: Early Five-Year Plans (1951-1980) allocated limited funds to tourism, viewing it as a non-essential sector.
- Foreign Exchange Regulations: Strict foreign exchange regulations hindered the inflow of foreign tourists.
- Infrastructure Deficiencies: Poor road and rail networks, limited air connectivity, and inadequate hotel facilities posed significant challenges.
The Rise of Domestic Tourism (1980s-1990s)
The 1980s marked a turning point, with the government beginning to recognize the economic potential of tourism. The ‘Incredible India’ campaign, though formally launched later, had its roots in the promotional efforts of this period. The middle class was expanding, leading to a surge in domestic tourism. The focus shifted towards promoting India’s cultural heritage and natural beauty.
- National Tourism Policy (1982): This policy aimed to promote tourism as a foreign exchange earner and a generator of employment.
- Development of Tourist Circuits: The government initiated the development of tourist circuits connecting various destinations.
- Increased Air Connectivity: The liberalization of the aviation sector led to increased air connectivity and lower fares.
Globalization and the ‘Incredible India’ Campaign (2000s)
The 1990s and 2000s witnessed the impact of globalization on Indian tourism. The liberalization of the Indian economy attracted foreign investment and led to the development of world-class hotels and resorts. The launch of the ‘Incredible India’ campaign in 2002 proved to be a watershed moment, significantly boosting India’s image as a tourist destination. This campaign focused on showcasing India’s diverse culture, heritage, and landscapes.
- ‘Incredible India’ Campaign (2002): This campaign, spearheaded by the Ministry of Tourism, aimed to position India as a globally competitive tourist destination.
- Visa Reforms: The government introduced visa-on-arrival schemes for certain countries to facilitate tourist travel.
- Public-Private Partnerships: Increased involvement of the private sector in tourism development.
Challenges and Contemporary Issues
Despite significant progress, the Indian tourism sector continues to face several challenges. These include inadequate infrastructure, safety concerns, environmental sustainability issues, and the need for better marketing and promotion. The author would likely highlight these challenges and emphasize the need for a more holistic and sustainable approach to tourism development.
| Challenge | Description |
|---|---|
| Infrastructure | Poor road connectivity, inadequate airport facilities, and limited accommodation options in many areas. |
| Safety & Security | Concerns about the safety of tourists, particularly women, in certain regions. |
| Sustainability | Environmental degradation due to unchecked tourism growth and lack of sustainable practices. |
Conclusion
The author would likely conclude that the state of tourism in post-Independence India has been one of gradual evolution, marked by initial neglect, followed by a growing recognition of its economic potential. While significant strides have been made, particularly in the last two decades, substantial challenges remain. A sustainable and inclusive approach, focusing on infrastructure development, safety, environmental protection, and effective marketing, is crucial to unlock the full potential of India’s tourism sector and ensure its long-term growth.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.