World Tourism Day, celebrated annually on the 27th of September, has deep roots in the development of global tourism. On this very date in 1970, the Statutes of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) were adopted; a significant event that definitively shaped the trajectory of global tourism. The UNWTO, a specialized agency within the United Nations, is charged with the task of fostering responsible, sustainable, and universally accessible tourism.
Significance of World Tourism Day
The World Tourism Day holds immense importance as it underscores the vital role of tourism in the preservation of cultural and natural heritage worldwide. It emphasizes how tourism serves not only as a means for people to explore and appreciate diverse cultures and environments but also as an essential instrument in protecting habitats and endangered species. Furthermore, the tourism sector facilitates job opportunities, especially for women and youth, in both rural and urban communities.
2020 Celebration: Tourism and Rural Development
The theme for the 2020 World Tourism Day was ‘Tourism and Rural Development’. This theme sought to highlight how tourism contributes to the creation of jobs outside of major cities, thereby fostering rural economic growth. In a departure from previous years, the official celebration was jointly hosted by the MERCOSUR bloc (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, and associate member, Chile), symbolizing a united front amid the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.
Covid-19 Impact on Global Tourism
The Covid-19 pandemic has gravely impacted the global tourism industry. According to UNWTO data, approximately 100 to 120 million jobs in the tourism sector are at risk. The pandemic has brought several restrictions, affecting travel operators and agencies, hotels, airlines, and related sectors.
The Indian Tourism Landscape
India holds significant potential in the field of tourism, given its rich tapestry of cultural heritage, archaeology, and nature. The country is home to 38 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and makes a substantial contribution to India’s GDP. In 2019, the contribution of the tourism industry to India’s GDP stood at 9.3%, generating over 8% of total employment.
Measures to Boost Indian Tourism
Several initiatives have been launched to promote tourism in India. These include the Swadesh Darshan Scheme, which aims to develop theme-based tourist circuits, and the PRASHAD Scheme, focused on the holistic development of identified pilgrimage destinations. Others include the government’s plan to develop 17 “Iconic Tourist Sites”, the ‘Dekho Apna Desh’ webinar series, and the Destination North East-2020 initiative. Each seeks to enhance India’s soft power and stimulate the domestic economy via tourism.
Challenges and the Way Forward
Despite these efforts, there are several challenges hindering the growth of tourism in India. These range from infrastructure-related issues such as inadequate roads, water, and sewer systems, to safety and security concerns for both local and foreign tourists. Further challenges include widespread pollution and littering, which tarnish the appeal of tourist hotspots.
In response to these concerns, the government has urged tourist hotspot cities to switch entirely to clean fuel and has emphasized the importance of waste collection and responsible disposal. Striking a balance between the needs of the host, visitor, and environment should be prioritized, creating a more sustainable and resilient tourism industry in the long term.
