India is a country that boasts a rich cultural heritage and diverse natural beauty. It is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Taj Mahal and the Red Fort, and offers a wide range of experiences for tourists. Let’s take a closer look at how tourism has been faring in India recently.
Pre-Covid Tourism in India
Before the Covid-19 pandemic hit, India was experiencing a steady growth in its tourism industry. The tourism sector contributed around 9.2% to India’s GDP and employed over 42 million people. The country welcomed around 10 million foreign tourists every year, with tourists from the US, UK, Bangladesh, Canada, and Australia being among the top visitors.
Popular Tourist Destinations in India
India has a plethora of tourist destinations to choose from. From snow-capped mountains to tropical beaches, there is something for everyone here. Some of the popular tourist destinations include:
- Goa: Known for its beautiful beaches and Portuguese heritage.
- Kerala: Famous for its backwaters and Ayurvedic treatments.
- Rajasthan: Home to magnificent palaces and forts.
- Himachal Pradesh: Offers scenic views of the Himalayas.
- Taj Mahal: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Tourism During Covid-19 Pandemic
The Covid-19 pandemic had a severe impact on India’s tourism industry. The country went into lockdown in March 2020, which led to a complete halt in tourism activities. This resulted in massive job losses and revenue losses for the industry.
However, with the gradual lifting of restrictions, domestic tourism has started to pick up. People are now opting for staycations and short trips to nearby destinations. The government has also launched several initiatives to boost domestic tourism, such as the “Dekho Apna Desh” campaign, which encourages Indians to explore their own country.
Steps Taken by India’s Government
To support the tourism industry during these challenging times, the Indian government has taken several steps:
- Financial Support: The government announced a relief package of INR 20 lakh crore (USD 265 billion), which included measures to support the tourism and hospitality sectors.
- Safety Measures: The Ministry of Tourism has issued guidelines for safe travel and accommodation, such as mandatory thermal screening, sanitization of premises, and contactless check-ins.
- Promotion: The government has launched several campaigns to promote domestic tourism, such as “Atithi Devo Bhava” (Guest is God) and “Swadesh Darshan” (Tourism in India).
The Future of Tourism in India
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, there is hope for India’s tourism industry. With an increasing number of people getting vaccinated and restrictions being lifted gradually, there is a possibility that international tourism may resume soon. However, it may take some time before things go back to normal.
In conclusion, India’s tourism industry has faced significant challenges due to the Covid-19 pandemic. However, with government support and people’s willingness to travel again, there is hope that things will improve soon. As tourists start venturing out again, they can look forward to experiencing all that this beautiful country has to offer.