Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 Bi-Annual ISSN No. 2278-8379 TOURISM INNOVATIONS An International Journal of Indian Tourism and Hospitality Congress (ITHC)
Chief Editors
Prof. S. P. Bansal Vice Chancellor Himachal Pradesh Technical University, Hamirpur, H.P. India .
Dr. Sandeep Kulshrestha Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management, (IITTM)
Indian Tourism and Hospitality Congress www.tourismcongress.wordpress.com Tourism Innovations: An International Journal of Indian Tourism and Hospitality Congress (ITHC)
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On the occasion of National Conference of Indian Tourism and Hospitality Congress at Auro University, Surat (Gujarat) we are delighted to announce the first issue of tenth edition ofTourism Innovations-the Journal of Indian Tourism and Hospitality Congress. It is truly a delightful moment to reflect the evolving issues of tourism with contemporary date, high excellence and original research papers together with significant and insightful reviews. This journal aims to be intellectually vibrant, engaging and open, and to the same time integrative and inspiring. Over the last few decades, Tourism studies has evolved highly disintegrated and concentrated into different theme capacities, or strengths. The academics consideration has resulted in the publications of hundreds of referred articles in media. nonetheless Tourism Innovations is specifically devoted to evolving subjects in tourism and hospitality industry not only in India but all across the globe. Our special thanks to all the members of the Advisory Board and the reviewers who have endlessly helped and reinforced in many ways and have given their valuable time and other commitments. Lastly, our heartiest gratitude to all the contributors for their solid support for research creativities, and all the readers who have continuously shown their interest in the concerned journal. We look forward to accept your manuscripts and fruitful response for more developments. There is no doubt that currently global tourism and hospitality is passing through the most difficult time in view of Coronavirus outbreak and economic slowdown in some countries. Here we envisage great role of research in shaping the industry in such tough time. ‘Tourism will fight back and survive’ by going through this phrase ‘domestic and regional tourism’ can be seen as tourism saviors.
Chief Editors Prof. S.P. Bansal Dr. Sandeep Kulshrestha
TOURISM INNOVATIONS An International Journal of Indian Tourism and Hospitality Congress (ITHC) Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020
Editor’s Note iii
Research Papers
1. An Analytical Study of IRCTC in Promoting Tourism and Upgrading Catering Services 1-10 towards Travelling Commuters in Indian Railways at Gwalior Railway Station Manoj Kumar Yadav 2. Rural Tourism: A Paradigm Shift to Emerging Socio-Economic Challenges 11-17 Suneel Kumar & Shekhar 3. Tourism Management in UTs of J & K and Ladakh Post Abrogation of Article 370 of Indian 18-20 Constitution G. G. Saxena & Ambuj Saxena 4. Economic Impacts of Tourism Upon the Quality of Life of Residents of Anand District of 21-31 Gujarat State Subhashish Mishra & Amar Deshpande 5. Tour Operators and World Heritage Sites: Do they have Shared Interests? 32-38 Monisha Juneja & Malini Singh 6. Impact of Krishna Pushkaralu on Developing New Tourist Destinations 39-43 P. Sravan Kumar & Rajshree Bhargava 7. Identifying Tourists’ Destination Loyalty: A Case Study of Gujarat 44-52 Rajul Malay Gandhi & Renuka Garg 8. Creating Shareholders Wealth Through Mergers and Acquisitions: A Long Term Study with Special 53-60 Reference to Indian Hotel and Tourism Sector Vinod M Lakhwani & Sangeeta Jauhari
Tourism Innovations Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020, pp. 1-10
An Analytical Study of IRCTC in Promoting Tourism and Upgrading Catering Services towards Travelling Commuters in Indian Railways at Gwalior Railway Station
Manoj Kumar Yadav
IRCTC is a subsidiary wing of Indian Railways responsible for ticketing, promoting tourism and providing catering services to travelling commuters of Indian Railways. For better control and effective management, the Indian railway network is decentralized into 16 railway zones. It sells around more than 5 lakh tickets everyday which makes the IRCTC site second busiest site in the world. Apart front ticketing, it also manages tourism and catering related services for domestic and international tourists and travellers. Besides conventional tourism, nowadays it also offers adventure tourism and customized tours. Recently, IRCTC launched “Rail Tourism India” to provide direct catering and tourism packages to its users. This research study reveals about the challenges faced by IRCTC and what measures IRCTC can take for making the travel passengers’ meal experience and moment of truth better. Tools like One way ANOVA and Descriptive analysis are used to draw the inferences. Keywords: Rail Tourism, PSU, MICE, Moment of Truth, Meal Experience, Single-Window Platform
Introduction the newly formed IRCTC. Nowadays IRCTC organizes The network of Indian Railways is third largest railway budget and deluxe tour packages for domestic as well as network in the world. The milestone in the growth phase foreign tourist via different high speed and luxury trains. of Indian Railways can be traced back in year 1853 when it started its first journey of 53 km from Mumbai to Thane. As compare to any other mode of transport, Railway is considered as cheapest and affordable mode of transport for millions of passengers, particularly for long run journey. For better management, Indian Railway is divided into 16 railway zones and 73 railway divisions throughout the nation. Indian Railway plays a significant role in the social and economic growth of India. Upto 2013, Indian Railways served to 1.4 crore passengers every day and during the year 2015 it increased to 8.101 billion passengers. As a result, the revenue generation of Indian Railways is Source- India Tourism Statistics at a Glance, 2017 also increased gradually. IRCTC is a subsidiary body of Apart from travel related activities, earlier Indian Indian Railways responsible for managing catering and Railways was also managing its catering services through tourism services besides ticketing. The revenue growth departmental catering units available on different Railway rate of IRCTC, from year 2003 to 2013, can be seen in the Zones. In broad spectrum, the work profile of railway below given bar chart. Conventionally, ticketing is the from ticketing to catering was vast and completely major revenue source for Indian Railways but as time different in nature. As a result complaints from travelling passes Indian Railways increases its revenue sources commuters are obvious but these complaints started particularly by offering tourism and catering oriented increasing day-by-day, particularly meal and beverage services. Initially, catering venture was handled by related complaints. To strengthen the marketing efforts Indian Railways and its Zonal points but from the year and service capabilities in the areas of rail catering, 1999 the responsibility of catering was handed over to
Manoj Kumar Yadav Lecturer, Institute of Hotel Management, Catering Technology & Applied Nutrition, Gwalior, M.P.
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 1 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations An Analytical Study of IRCTC in Promoting Tourism... hospitality and passenger amenities a corporate entity Besides railway catering, IRCTC also manages its catering IRCTC was formed. services at various offices, institutions and at high-end IRCTC, formed on 27th September 1999, is a Schedule “B” events and functions. Apart from catering, IRCTC also PSU Enterprise under the direct control and supervision promotes tourism sector by different means of efforts, of Ministry of Railways. But it obtained the certificate for for instance introduce new trains, air fare arrangement, commencement of Business on 2nd December 1999 and extension of route of exiting trains, new tour packages, full flesh functioning was started on 01 August 2001. organization of MICE events and so forth. IRCTC is an extended arm of Indian Railways to upgrade, All above given areas of development collectively professionalize and manage the catering and hospitality promote tourism and hospitality services for Indian services of Indian Railways on railway stations, trains, national and international tourist arrivals. But yet the and at other locations. IRCTC was formed with an aim and share of Indian in International Tourism Index is floating objective to promote domestic and international tourism around1.2% which is extremely low as compare to other through the development of budget hotels, special tour countries. This research paper is written in an attempt packages, information and commercial publicity and to determine the catering and service quality through global reservation system. The five inherent activities of assessment of expectation and perception of travelling IRCTC are- catering; hospitality; internet ticketing; travel passengers who used to purchase meals and beverages & tourism; and manufacturing packaged drinking water from IRCTC operated outlets. (i.e railneer). Tourist Arrival in India Currently, IRCTC manages more than 1500 specialized hospitality professionals and a widespread network Tourism is important for the country’s economic growth across India. IRCTC works as a single-window platform for and from the perspective of employment. According to managing multifaceted, most prominently hospitality, WTTC, tourism generated around 15.24 lakh crore rupees tourism and travel related concerns. During the last or 9.4 % of India’s GDP in year 2017 and supported decade, the corporation has made significant progress around 08% of its total employment. In addition, WTTC in catering, travel and tourism segment of business. The also forecasted the growth of tourism in India at an revenue turnover of this segment (except departmental annual rate of 6.9% to Rs. 32.05 lakh crore by the end of catering units) has almost double due to significant year 2028- it means 9.9% of GDP. All these figures clearly strides made in the domestic tourism. reveals about the role and importance of tourism and its related component in the growth and development of the In new catering policy 2010, the business of catering and country. The growth rate of inbound tourism from year hospitality run by IRCTC is limited to Food Plazas, Food 2000 in India can be seen in below given Table 01. courts and Fast Food Units on railway network nationwide.
Table 2 Inbound Tourism- Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs), Arrivals of NON-Resident Indians (NRIs) and International Tourist Arrivals (ITAs) 2000-2017 (till June)
FTAs in Percentage NRIs Arrivals Percentage Percentage change ITAs in India (in Year India (in change over in India (in change over over previous year Millions) Millions) previous year Millions) previous year 2000 2.65 6.7% 2001 2.54 -4.2% 2002 2.38 -06% 2003 2.73 14.3% 2004 3.46 26.8% 2005 3.92 13.3% 2006 4.45 13.5% 2007 5.08 14.3% 2008 5.28 04% 2009 5.17 -2.2% 2010 5.78 11.8% 2011 6.31 9.2% 2012 6.58 4.3% 2013 6.97 5.9%
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2014 7.68 10.2% 5.43 13.11 2015 8.03 4.5% 5.26 -3.15% 13.29 1.4% 2016 8.80 9.7% 5.77 9.67% 14.57 9.6% 2017(P) 4.89 17.2% (Jan-June)
(P) Provisional, @ Growth rate over Jan-June2016 Source - A) Bureau of Immigration, Government of India, for 2000-16 and B) Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, for Jan-June 2017 The role of IRCTC in the growth and development of railway catering and hospitality services towards travelling passengers can never be denied. For detail reference, Table number 2 and 3 can be referred to see segment wise break- up of last five years’ profit and loss in the various business segments of IRCTC. Table No. 2
Business Segment 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 (P) Licensee Catering 9.42 3.20 3.97 8.22 19.44 Railneer -0.82 0.45 2.65 5.52 16.71 Internet Booking 111.02 137.51 171.62 215.59 260.41 Tourism -10.83 -12.98 -4.68 18.65 28.15 Departmental Catering -53.59 -59.84 -68.23 -57.32 -65.66 Total 55.20 68.34 105.33 190.56 259.05
Source - India Tourism Statistics at a Glance, 2017
Table No. 3
Years (Profit/Loss) Particulars 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15
Licensee Catering 7874.18 941.75 319.97 396.59 822.37
Departmental Catering -5546.84 -5359.79 -5984.12 -6823.40 -5732.16
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 3 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations An Analytical Study of IRCTC in Promoting Tourism... Literature Review Railway catering is almost identical to airline catering due to various factors, most prominently in terms of target market segment i.e. travelling passengers. The difference lies in both industries only in the average spending power of passengers. Generally, the average spending power of airline commuters is quite high as compare to railway passengers. R. Archana and M.V. Subhain (2012) stated in their study, titled “Study of Passenger’s Satisfaction with Respect to the Catering Facilities Available at Raipur Railway Station” that there are three dimensions of perceived service quality by Since its inception and still IRCTC continuously putting airline commuters i.e. cuisine, seat and safety. These three all efforts for the betterment of passengers’ overall identified dimensions collectively play a significant role meal experience and moment of truth. It provides in overall passengers’ satisfaction. catering provision via different on-board and off-board Mohd. Zahari, M.S, Salleh et al (2011) stated in their mechanisms. Its efforts in terms of number of outlets on research work that retaining old passengers and attracting railway stations and on-board catering provisions can be new passengers is an important strategy to survive in seen in below given Table 04. this competitive business era. They concluded that flight Table No. 04 meals/food service plays an important role in generating business for airlines. 1 Food Plazas & Fast Food Units 186 units Geethika and Shefali Nandan (2006) identified in 2 Catering Services On-Board Trains 50 trains their research work, titled “Determinants of Customer Satisfaction on Service Quality: A Study of Railway 3 Suvidha Trains 01 train Platforms in India”, that refreshments and behavioural 4 Base Kitchens 04 kitchens factors are counted as most important determinants that determines the passengers’ satisfaction with the provided 5 Jan Ahaar 13 units service quality on railway stations. 6 Refreshment Rooms 03 stations Catering not only plays a considerable role in transport 7 Other Minor Units 113 units catering segment but it also forms a key component in welfare catering sector too. Firenze A, Morici N et Source - India Tourism Statistics at a Glance, 2017 al (2009) concluded in their research work “Patients Evaluation of Hospital Food Service Quality in Italy: What Do Patients Really Value”, that the satisfaction level of patient regarding catering in private hospital was 80% and that of public hospital was 50%. Resultant, the catering services in public hospital needed to be improved. Cronin and Taylor (1992) revealed in their research work “Measuring Service Quality: A Re-examination and Extension” that perceived service quality led customers to satisfaction and also stated that this is the service quality which actually an antecedent of customer satisfaction. Bitner and Hubbert (1994) revealed in their research study that the customer’s perception is an important dimension of service quality. The service quality varies Source - India Tourism Statistics at a Glance, 2017 with profession and customers’ perspective; thus the IRCTC works hard to take new initiatives in various definitions of service almost formulated in accordance fields to encash new opportunities in railway and non- with customers’ perspective. railway segments to sustain its high level of performance, M. Joseph (2000) stated in his work “Customer Satisfaction simultaneously also emphasis on existing business in Southern Railway, Madurai Division” that the service segment for betterment and improvement. Today, IRCTC quality of meals and beverages served in Indian Trains operates more than 200 outlets throughout the Indian must be improved to make the passengers satisfied. For railway network. improvement, he suggested for frequent and random
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 4 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations An Analytical Study of IRCTC in Promoting Tourism... inspection of catering units by railway officials and local To evaluate the passenger satisfaction level among NGOs. the travellers of Indian Railways with the services of Gronoos (1884), counted as a pioneer in conceptualization IRCTC, particularly catering and hospitality services. of the service quality, revealed in his research work To observe the passengers’ post purchase behaviour that technical, functional and reputational quality are towards the offered catering services and hospitality considered as major concern for service quality. Later services provided by IRCTC. on Gronroos (1988) stated that the overall perception of Period of Study quality was a disconfirmation of a customers’ expectation and evaluation of a service offered. The same assertion This research study was conducted in between the month is continuously maintained by world renowned authors of July, August, September, October and November 2019 Parasuraman, Zeithaml and Berry (1988) in their research Sources of Data Collection work. The primary data for this research work has been Chang Ee Ling and Cyril De Run (2009) stated in their research work that supporting services, products and collected through questionnaire and personal observation promotional efforts are few major variables for customer of travelling passengers. In questionnaire, 20 questions satisfaction. On the flip side, they stated that convenience, (divided into 05 parts- each contains 04 questions) were services, satisfaction and associate costs are primary used to collect the response and feedback in respect to determinants of customer loyalty. The findings of the catering services provided by IRCTC. For questionnaire, sample size research work concluded that service providers must the of the study was around 75 respondents look beyond price wars to keep their customers satisfied but proper and complete responses were received from and loyal. only 43 respondents. The sample selection was done randomly who travelled via express and Mail trains. The Service is most important concern for T and A. Stephen sample composition was consists of those travellers who (2012) they stated with the help of Railquail model in their travel towards Delhi meanwhile passes from Gwalior research study that reliability, assurance and empathy railway station. On the flip side, the secondary data has are three major concerns for travelling passenger. been collected from newspaper, magazines, CAG report, Aggarwal R. (2008) discussed in his research work articles, relevant websites, previous research papers and that the behaviour of employees play a significant role annual report of Indian Railways. in overall satisfaction of guest. He said that in Indian Railways, the impact of catering staffs’ behaviour work Data Analysis and Interpretations as a determinant for passenger satisfaction. The data analysis of this analytical study is based on the hypothesis testing- finding the differences between Statement of Problem variables then analyze these variables on the basis of The facility of on-board and off-board catering improves their mean and percentage score. In reliability statistic, a lot after the involvement of IRCTC in catering the Cronbach’s Alpha is .724. Additionally, collective services of Indian Railways. Now it is convenient for response of travelling passengers in regard to five major passengers to place their orders via mobile number as questions which included in questionnaire is briefly well as on-line booking portal but yet there is a need of explained below- further development in the sector of generosity in the behavioural aspect of railway catering staff, food quality Reliability Statistics and waste treatment in an attempt to meet passengers’ Cronbach’s Alpha Based on N of Cronbach’s Alpha expectation level. This research paper confers about the Standardized Items Items pre-determined standard level of catering with on-going .745 .724 20 reality and describes how passengers of Indian Railway can be better satisfied by its catering and hospitality Question 01 Do you prefer to purchase meals and services. beverages from the catering service providers during the travelling hours, irrespective to authorized or Objectives of the research unauthorized vendors? To study the role and impact of catering services in Remark- From all the chosen respondents from captive passenger’s overall moment of truth and meal experience market segment (i.e. railway commuters), around 65% cycle. respondents accepted that they mostly prefer to purchase To find out the impact of different catering dimensions meals and beverages during the journey hours. On the (preferable travel mode, travel frequency, purpose opposite side 30% respondents responded that they of travel, class of travel, travel itinerary, purchase do not prefer to purchase meals and beverages during preference and ASP) over the passengers’ overall the journey. And remaining 05% respondents said that satisfaction level. sometime they prefer to purchase but not always.
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 5 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations An Analytical Study of IRCTC in Promoting Tourism... Question 2 From whom, authorized or unauthorized vendors, you would mostly prefer to purchase meals and beverages during the travelling hours? Remark- Around 40% respondents accepted that they mostly purchase meals and beverages from authorized vendors only (or IRCTC affiliated vendors) particularly due to safety and quality assurance. In contrary, 35% respondents said that they purchase from local vendors/ non-authorized vendors and 15% accepted that they purchase from both authorized as well as unauthorized vendors. The remaining 10% respondents claimed that they mostly prefer to carry food from their home because it is more safe and hygienic as compare to vendors’ food. Question 03 How do you wish to rate the various catering dimensions (menu choice, food quality, service quality, employee behaviour, food safety and food waste) of Indian railway catering services in order-of-their- importance? Remark- For 25% passengers’ food quality is highly important followed by food safety (21%), service quality (18%) and employee behaviour (18%) as compare to other dimensions. 12% respondents claimed that menu choices also form a significant role in catering services after food quality and food safety. On the flip side only 06% respondents have given weightage to food waste and said it also plays a significant role in catering related services apart from other stated core components. Question 04 How do you wish to grade the various catering oriented, in regard to menu choices, serving method, food quality, employee behaviour, food safety and food waste, services provided by IRCTC and its authorized vendors.
Source - Author
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 6 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations An Analytical Study of IRCTC in Promoting Tourism... services of Indian Railways. Only 10% passengers are strongly satisfied with provided meals and beverages whereas 15% passengers are very satisfied. Distribution of Catering Dimensions and Response Figures of Travelling Commuters and Passengers
Catering Frequency Percentage Dimensions - Rail 37 85 - Bus 02 Preferable 05 - Car 02 Travel Mode 05 - Air 02 05 - Water - Remark- The overall facility of catering and its - On daily basis 01 02 related components are highly acceptable in Rajdhani - Once a week 03 07 trains followed by Satabadi and other mail/express Travelling - Once a month 22 51 and passengers trains. The collective response of all Frequency respondents is somewhat like- - Once in half year 06 14 - Once in a year 11 26 Ranking of Catering Overall Purpose of - Business 08 19 Marks Catering Components Percentage Travel - Leisure 35 81 Components - Sleeper Coach 27 63 20 marks out Class of st - AC Coach 16 37 Menu Choice of 40, it means 16.67% 01 Rank Travel 50% - General Coach - - Service Quality 19 marks out - Pre-planned 17 40 & Employee of 40, it means 15.83% 02nd Rank - On the Spot 08 18 Behaviour 47.5% Travelling Itinerary - Both 17 40 18 marks out - Not Sure 01 02 Food Quality of 40, it means 14.95% 03rd Rank 47.5% - Carry food from 17 marks out your home 28 65 Food Hygiene Food of 40, it means 14.17% 04th Rank - Purchase from 08 19 and Food waste Preference 42.5% catering vendors 07 16 - Both All selected respondents collectively gave 61.62 % marks out of 100% to catering and its related components. Yet - Authorized catering components are lacking behind with 38.38% Vendors/IRCTC affiliated Bodies 30 70 marks which is not a good indication of passenger Purchase - Unauthorized 02 45 satisfaction. The above given response figures clearly Preference Vendors/Local 11 25 reflected that respondents have gave maximum marks Vendors to menu choice followed by service quality, employee - Both behaviour and food quality. Food hygiene and food waste dimension get minimum marks and placed on - Once a day 23 54 4th position. But remember the entire response scenario - Twice a day 08 18 Purchase - Thrice a day 05 12 varies with type of train. Frequency Question 05 How do you want to evaluate the overall - Round the clock 01 02 catering services provided by IRCTC, its co-partners and - Never 06 14 unauthorized vendors to travelling passengers? - Below Rs. 500 29 - Rs. 501 – Rs. 1000 68 Remark- In terms of overall passenger satisfaction, 35% 06 passengers are not satisfied with various catering services - Rs. 1001 –Rs. 14 ASP 07 provided by authorized (or IRCTC/Indian Railways 1500 16 01 affiliated) and unauthorized vendors. 20% passengers - Rs. 1501-Rs. 2000 02 - are extremely dissatisfied with catering services and - Above Rs. 2001 20% passengers gave their neutral response (neither fully dissatisfied nor completely satisfied) with catering The result of hypothesis testing reveals-
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ANOVA Sum of Squares df Mean Square F Sig. Between Groups 2.415 3 .805 2.122 .140 Travel Mode Within Groups 5.690 15 .379 Total 8.105 18 Between Groups 2.231 3 .744 .552 .654 Travel Frequency Within Groups 20.190 15 1.346 Total 22.421 18 Between Groups .507 3 .169 1.039 .404 Travel Purpose Within Groups 2.440 15 .163 Total 2.947 18 Between Groups .343 3 .114 .456 .717 Travel Class Within Groups 3.762 15 .251 Total 4.105 18 Between Groups .310 3 .103 .113 .951 Travel Itinerary Within Groups 13.690 15 .913 Total 14.000 18 Between Groups .729 3 .243 1.502 .255 Food Preference Within Groups 2.429 15 .162 Total 3.158 18 Between Groups .939 3 .313 .398 .756 Purchase Preference Within Groups 11.798 15 .787 Total 12.737 18 Between Groups 4.922 3 1.641 1.081 .387 Purchase Frequency Within Groups 22.762 15 1.517 Total 27.684 18 Between Groups .308 3 .103 .265 .849 Average Spending Within Groups 5.798 15 .387 Power Total 6.105 18
H 00 Statistically there is no significant difference between passengers’ satisfaction level and their preferable travel mode. Result - One way ANOVA clearly reflects that statistically there was no significant difference between passengers’ satisfaction level in respect to their preferable travel mode. The significance value is 0.140 (p= .140) which is above 0.05 and F(3,15)= 2.122
H 01 Statistically there is no significant difference between passengers’ satisfaction level and their travelling frequency. Result - One way ANOVA clearly reflects that statistically there was no significant difference between passengers’ satisfaction level in respect to their travelling frequency. The significance value is 0.654 (p = .654) which is above 0.05 and F (3,15) = .552
H 02 Statistically there is no significant difference between passengers’ satisfaction level and their purpose of travel. Result - One way ANOVA clearly reflects that statistically there was no significant difference between passengers’ satisfaction level in respect to their travel purpose. The significance value is 0.404 (p = .404) which is above 0.05 and F (3,15) = 1.039
H 03 Statistically there is no significant difference between passengers’ satisfaction level and their class of travel. Result - One way ANOVA clearly reflects that statistically there is no significant difference between passengers’ satisfaction level in respect to their class of travel. The significance value is 0.717 (p = .717) which is above 0.05 and F (3,15) = .465
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H 04 Statistically there is no significant difference H 06 Statistically there is no significant difference between passengers’ satisfaction level and their between passengers’ satisfaction level and their travelling itinerary. purchase frequency. Result - One way ANOVA clearly reflects that Result - One way ANOVA clearly reflects that statistically there was no significant difference statistically there was no significant difference between passengers’ satisfaction level in respect to between passengers’ satisfaction level in respect to their travelling itinerary. The significance value is their purchase frequency. The significance value is 0.951 (p = .951) which is above 0.05 and F (3,15) = 0.387 (p = .387) which is above 0.05 and F (3,15) = .113 1.081
H 05 Statistically there is no significant difference H 07 Statistically there is no significant difference between passengers’ satisfaction level and their between passenger satisfaction level and their food purchase preference. average spending power. Result - One way ANOVA clearly reflects that Result - One way ANOVA clearly reflects that statistically there was no significant difference statistically there was no significant difference between passengers’ satisfaction level in respect between passengers’ satisfaction level in respect to their food purchase frequency. The significance to their average spending power. The significance value is 0.756 (p= .756) which is above 0.05 and value is 0.849 (p = .849) which is above 0.05 and F F(3,15)= .398 (3,15) = .265
Table 3- Descriptive Analysis of Satisfaction Dimension
Mean Score and Percentage S. No. Rating Scale SD SU US SA VS SS 1 Menu Choice (Food) 9.1 20.5 59.1 9.1 - 2.70 .773 2 Menu Choice (Beverages) 2.3 18.2 56.8 20.5 - 2.98 .707 3 Menu Choice (All Round Snacks ) - 20.5 43.2 29.5 2.3 3.14 .783 4 Food Quality 11.4 25.0 52.3 11.4 - 2.64 .838 5 Service Quality 9.1 13.6 31.8 40.9 4.5 3.18 1.040 6 Food Hygiene and Safety 4.5 15.9 45.5 27.3 2.3 3.07 .876 7 Prices of Meals & Beverages 4.5 36.4 47.7 4.5 2.3 2.62 .764 8 Food Waste Disposal 11.4 25.0 47.7 4.5 6.8 2.69 1.000 9 Employee Behaviour 4.5 11.4 56.8 27.3 - 3.07 .759 Note. SU- Strongly Unsatisfactory, US- Unsatisfactory, SA- Satisfactory, VS-Very Satisfactory, SS- Strongly Satisfactory In the above given table of descriptive analysis of satisfaction dimension, this is observed that four out of nine dimensions has a mean score on a higher note, i.e. <3 and remaining five dimensions are on a lower note <3. The dimension with very lowest value is prices of meals and beverages with mean score of 2.62 followed by food quality (2.64) and waste disposal (2.69). The mean score of service quality stands at 3.18 followed by menu choices of all-round snacks at 3.14 and satisfy the condition of catering services and provision provided by the Indian Railways at this particular junction. Consequently the above given analysis also suggests that passengers are least satisfied with prices of offered meals and beverages (followed by food quality) with rest of the dimensions on catering provisions at Gwalior Railway Stations. Limitation of the Study 1. The data collected may not be generalized for the entire catering provisions throughout the Indian Railway network because it is collected from limited passengers who pass from Gwalior railway station. 2. The correctness of the data analysis and interpretations is subject to the correctness of responses given by the randomly chosen respondents. 3. Respondents’ responses may suffer from their personal biasness also which can affect this research work either positively or negatively. 4. Apart from tourism and catering provisions, there are countless variables that determine the satisfaction of passengers. So, the study may not reveal comprehensive result.
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 9 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations An Analytical Study of IRCTC in Promoting Tourism... Findings of the Study References The tested hypotheses clearly specify that there were no Geetika, Shefali Nandan, “Determinants of Customer significant differences between passengers’ satisfaction Satisfaction on Service Quality:A Study of Railway level in respect to varying catering dimensions. The mean Platforms in India.” Journal of Public Transportation, Vol. score of menu choices, food quality, prices for meals & 13, No. 1,: 11-14. Edition 2010 beverage and food waste disposal clearly intimates that Aggarwal, R. (2008), “Public Transportation and Customer these weaken areas should be seriously addressed and Satisfaction”, Global Business Reveiw 9 (2), pp. 257-272. need to be strengthened. Kothari. C. R. (2006), Research Methodology: Methods and Techniques, New Age Publication, New Delhi, 2nd Edition. Recommendations and Suggestions Vanniarajan, T., A. Stephen. (2008) Railquail and Passenger 1. The result of tested hypothesis reveals that there are Satisfaction: An Empherical Study in Southern Railways, no significant differences in between the catering Asia Pasific Business Review 4 (1): pp 64-75. dimensions in respect to passengers’ satisfaction Chang Ee Ling and Cyril De Run, “Satisfaction and Loyalty: level. Consequently, the framed policies, in respect Customer Perception of Malaysian Telecommunication to catering provisions and services, by IRCTC and Service Providers”, The ICFAI. Edition 2009 Indian Railways should be quantified in general. Gronroos, C. 1984, “A Service Quality Model and its arketing Therefore, these dimensions need not to be specific. Implications”, European Journal of Marketing 18: 36-44 2. A differential margin is found with respect to prices Bitner, MJ. And Hubbert, A.R., “Encounter Satisfaction of meals and beverages, food quality and food waste Versus Overall Satisfaction Versus Service Quality: The disposal. These dimensions should be strengthened Consumer’s Voice”, in Rust, Oliver and R.T., R.L. (Eds), with respect to others particularly service quality, “Service Quality: New Directions in Theory and Pactice”, Sage Publications, Thousand Oaks, CA. Edition 1994 menu choices, employee behaviour followed by food hygiene and safety and menu choices (all round Cronin Joseph J., and Taylor Steven A. (1992), “Measruing snacks). Service Quality: A Re-examination and Extension”, Journal of Marketing, July 1992. 3. Collectively, catering service provider must focus on Jospeh M. (2000), “Customer Satisfaction in Southern Raiwlay, all dimensions of catering services, especially on food Madurai Division”, MBA Project Submitted to Thigarajar quality and prices as these dimensions significantly School of Management, March 2000. affect to others and significantly affects in forming Indian Railway Year Book 2015-16, Rail Mantralaya, Ministry of overall passenger satisfaction level. Railway (or Railway Board). Conclusion Indian Railway Commercial Manual Vol. II, Chapter- Catering and Vending Services, Government of India, Ministry of Indian Railway is a highly preferable mode of transport Railway (or Railway Board) 1991. for majority of travellers. IRCTC, a subsidiary of Indian Railways, plays a significant role in ticketing, tourism and catering oriented services to travelling commuters. This analytical study reveals that catering is a vital aspect of Indian Railways and performs a noteworthy contribution in overall satisfaction of passengers. This study explores an insight of passengers’ satisfaction with catering services at Gwalior Railway station. Tested hypothesis revealed that there are no significant differences between catering dimensions and passengers’ satisfaction level. However the qualitative and quantitative aspects of food quality and prices of meals and beverages followed by food waste and menu choices are significantly not prevailing at expected level.
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 10 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020, pp. 26-32
Rural Tourism: A Paradigm Shift to Emerging Socio-Economic Challenges
Suneel Kumar & Shekhar
The study aims to examine different ways through which rural tourism development can be used to address the different socio- economic challenges present in the Indian economy. The major challenges existing in the society can be addressed through umbrella terms of financial inclusion and social inclusion. The present study conducts a systematic review of the literature of studies on the topic of financial inclusion and social inclusion. The study concluded that there exists a lot of gaps existing between policies framed for the issues and reality of progress made. Therefore, the study recommends the development of rural tourism which could act as a medium to address both the issues. Also, the study talks about research trends in Bottom of the Pyramid and presents before the researchers and industry practitioners rural tourism as a new industry where the approach could be employed for the economic upliftment of rural people. Keywords: Financial Inclusion, Social Inclusion, Rural Tourism.
1. Introduction to the study exhibitions for the same. Although the mission and schemes are working well enough in the rural areas, Tourism has since long been considered a leisure activity. their effectiveness in rural areas is not so encouraging. The main purpose of tourism has been to seek solace The focus of the government has been on providing the from the busy and hefty schedule of city lifestyle and people with result such as bank account. Therefore, the spend some time for self-development. Further, when effectiveness of such schemes has failed to properly work the number of tourists started to grow, the governments in a rural environment. Hence, the need of the hour is and policymakers began to identify the economic a means that can automatically address all the three benefits from the development of tourism. The economic issues prevalent in the economy. Rural tourism can be benefit was mainly due to the foreign exchange earnings considered one such means if properly developed. brought in by the foreign tourists and the consumption expenditure made by the domestic tourists. Thus, as 2. Review of Literature the tourism industry flourished, the economy started A lot of studies have been conducted which suggests that to reap the economic benefits and the externalities, rural tourism can generate substantive rural development. such as infrastructure development, development of This helps in lifting the standard of people living in rural allied industries, employment opportunities, associated areas by providing them with opportunities to earn with it. But still, there exist several socio-economic and spend. The basic roles of the consumer in market challenges in developing countries such as India. Three economy i.e. to ear, to spend, to save, to invest and as prominent socio-economic challenges prevalent in the taxpayer could be easily performed if the rural region is Indian economy at present are financial inclusion, social developed. Similarly, studies have been conducted in the inclusion and fewer business opportunities in rural domain of financial inclusion and social inclusion as well. areas. The current government of India since its coming Before proceeding with the study, it is essential to explore to power in 2015, has taken several initiatives to promote the various concepts to have a better understanding of financial inclusions such as Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan them. Review of literature is one way to not only have Yojna, Digital India Mission and so on. All these missions a better understanding of the concept but also to know and schemes were launched to make the economy more about the themes and patterns of studies that have been financially inclusive. Similarly, the government has also conducted around the topic. It is also essential to know tried to exchange cultures, values and customs through what work has been done and what research gap exists in the interaction of communities by organising fairs and the studies conducted. For the purpose of carrying out an
Suneel Kumar Assistant Professor, Department of Commerce, Shaheed Bhagat Singh College, University of Delhi, Delhi Shekhar Research Assistant, Department of Commerce, Shaheed Bhagat Singh College, University of Delhi, Delhi
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 11 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Rural Tourism: A Paradigm Shift to Emerging Socio-Economic Challenges extensive literature review, this section has been divided papers on financial inclusion and social inclusion into two sub-sections. highlights that major themes and patterns around which Trends in financial and social inclusion research the literature revolves are conceptualisation of financial inclusion and social inclusion, its meaning, importance Trends in Bottom of pyramid approach research and ways to achieve the inclusion. The role of technology Each segment explores the different papers which have in financial inclusion and social inclusion is discussed. been published in esteemed national and international The trends suggest that major research done in this area journals. Sources for collection of research paper and is between the period 2009-2015. The following table lists articles: down the theme on which research has been carried out Journals covered in ABDC list in the domain of financial and social inclusion- Scopus indexed journals Table 1 : Top Themes of Researrch in Domain of WoS indexed journals Financial & Social Inclusion EBSCO indexed journals Weighted UGC CARE listed journals Word Count Percentage Papers covering the word Each segment provides an in-depth analysis of work (%) that has been done, identified major thematic areas and (Bagli & Dutta, 2012) sub-themes and lists out major conclusions drawn by the Bank 2630 1.45 (Gupta, Chotia, & Rao, researchers in their papers. At the end of each segment, 2014) (Joseph, 2014) (Bhatia & Kiran, 2016) a conclusion is drawn which not draws upon the major Rural 611 0.34 research gap that persists in the area and why there is a (Singh & Singh, 2015) need to bridge the research gap. After completing an in- Women 401 0.22 (Bhatia & Singh, 2019) depth analysis of every segment, a holistic overview of Social 709 0.39 (Bhatia & Singh, 2019) the literature review is presented highlighting the need for this study and how this study overcomes the research (Bagli & Dutta, 2012) Access 573 0.32 (Gupta, Chotia, & Rao, gap that is existent in contemporary and previous studies. 2014) 2.1 Trends in Financial Inclusion and Social (Bhatia & Kiran, 2016) Inclusion research (Singh & Singh, 2015) Financial 3977 2.20 (Bagli & Dutta, 2012) Financial Inclusion is defined as the level to which (Gupta, Chotia, & Rao, components of society have access to financial products 2014) (Joseph, 2014) and services affordably. It refers to a situation where (Bhatia & Kiran, 2016) there exist an availability and equality of opportunities (Singh & Singh, 2015) to access financial services. It is the process to remove Inclusion 2073 1.14 (Bagli & Dutta, 2012) the barriers that restrict people from accessing and using (Gupta, Chotia, & Rao, financial services to make their life easier. It is also called 2014) (Joseph, 2014) inclusive finance. Education 668 0.37 (Genc & Genc, 2017) Social Inclusion is a process which ensures that the Source: Author’s compilation marginalised section of the society who are at risk of poverty and social exclusion are provided the means The figure below highlights the most recurring top 100 and opportunities to participate fully in socio-economic words identified from the research papers analysed in the activities of the society. It ensures that people living in study. such marginalised condition have again to better life standards through community interaction and by sharing knowledge about customs, traditions and values. Trends in financial and social inclusion research The concept of financial inclusion gained the attention of researchers in India in the last decade or so. The focus of government in improving the condition of financial access made it imperative for the researchers to study the extent of financial and social inclusion and suggest ways to achieve it more effectively. A lot of relevant Figure 1 Most Frequently Occuring 100 Words in literature exists on financial inclusion and social inclusion Research Papers in Domain of Financial Inclusion and their impact on the economy. An analysis of word Social Inclusion count conducted using the Nvivo software on 50 research Source: Author’s Compilation
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 12 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Rural Tourism: A Paradigm Shift to Emerging Socio-Economic Challenges (Vaidya, Mahajan, & Garg 2018) conducted district- (Gupta, Chotia, & Rao, 2014) analysed the extent of wise analysis of financial inclusion in the state of financial inclusion across the different states and union Himachal Pradesh. The study identified a gap in the territories in India. The study concluded that the level of reality of financial inclusion and what is claimed by human development and the extent of financial inclusion the government. The study highlighted that education is positively correlated. The study also concluded that level, demographics, employment level and banking Himachal Pradesh has a medium level of financial have an impact on financial inclusion level. (Voica, 2017) inclusion. (Negi & Sharma, 2014) intended to examine the studied the impact of financial inclusion on sustainable level of financial inclusion amongst the level of people development. The study concluded that financial belonging to the marginalised section of the society. The inclusion can be a way to eradicate poverty far more study lamented on the minuscule use of financial services effectively than any other mechanism. Also, it suggests by the people belonging to the lower section of society. that Digitalization will prove to be beneficial for financial The study suggested that to ensure that banking system inclusion. (Joseph, 2014) highlighted that infrastructure works effectively in this area, it should be ensured that hurdles make it difficult to continue with the tools the banking system remains cost-effective and offers available for financial inclusion. The study inspected proper financial products. (Trivedi, 2016) attempted to on the impact of demographics level of use of financial study the reality of financial inclusion in India. The study instruments. The study concluded that financial literacy concluded that there exists gender restraint in use of has an impact on the financial instruments being used by financial instruments. a person. (Mitra & Khan, 2015) examined the scope and coverage (Martin & Rabindranath, 2017) critically examined of financial inclusiveness across the globe as well as the impact of accessibility of websites of banks and India. The study critically evaluates the performance accessibility of financial and banking information as of the Indian Banking system in spreading financial a cause of the digital divide. The study concluded that inclusion to the financial illiterate section of the society. only a small portion of websites of banking and financial (Singh & Singh, 2015) attempted to study the current institutions pass the test of accessibility. (Genc & Genc, trends in financial inclusion in India with reference to 2017) suggests that tourism is able to provide more Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana. The study concluded opportunities for the better and wider approach for that although the government and RBI have launched social inclusion. The study focused on social exclusion several schemes still there are millions who are yet and discussed the negatives aspect of failure to include to have any access to financial services. (Souza, 2018) societies with the aim of rural development. (Hussain, analysed the role of mobile technology in impacting Fisher, & Espiner, 2017) studied the impact of the tourism financial inclusion in India. The study proposed a industry on the social and economic changes observed in strategy to involve digitalization amongst the informal the people of the study area. Due to the infrastructural sector to promote financial inclusion among them.(Bagli development in the transport and technological sector, & Dutta, 2012) examined the achievements of Indian the road for social inclusion has eased. (Sharma, 2018) states regarding financial inclusion. The study concluded carried out a detailed analysis of financial inclusion in the that Himachal Pradesh has a medium level of financial Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh. The study showed inclusion which can be further improved. (Selvakumar, that to improve the financial inclusion position of the Mathan, & Sathyalakshmi, 2015) undertook a study to district, the banking system needs to be improved more. analyse the level of financial inclusion in rural areas. (Brahmbhatt, 2018) studied the perception and The study concluded that people in residential areas expectation of customer with respect to the service have a medium level of knowledge about banking and quality of public and private sector banks. The study financial services.(Bhatia & Singh, 2019) investigates concluded that in order to retain customers loyalty, the the dimensions of women empowerment, that is, social, banks should continuously monitor the personal needs political, and economic. Further, the study established the of the customers. (Joshil & Rajpurohit, 2016) studied relationship between financial inclusion and dimensions the awareness of the concept of financial inclusion, the of women empowerment. The result indicated that the schemes associated with it, the tools available to achieve PMJDY scheme has been quite successful especially in it amongst the rural people. The study concluded that the case of women in slums and has a positive influence although the government is working consistently for on social, political, and economic dimensions of women improving the status of financial inclusion, it is yet to empowerment. impact the understanding of rural people. (Vashisht & The Conclusion from available literature A.K.Vashisht) suggested that significant progress has been made in terms of financial inclusion in Himachal The literature highlights several key conclusions. First, Pradesh. Visiting the banks, interacting with bank the extent of financial inclusion in Indian rural areas is officials, information gathering through pamphlets and not good. The major work in this regard has been done posters of the banks has made the people financially in developed areas, but the condition is not good in states prudent. that are not much developed. Second, social inclusion is
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 13 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Rural Tourism: A Paradigm Shift to Emerging Socio-Economic Challenges not much of a thought topic in Indian research. Third, will impact on promotion strategies as well. Similar policies regarding financial inclusion and social inclusion circumstances will be faced by the stakeholders working do not work much in a practical sense. Fourth, financial in rural tourism. inclusion coupled with social inclusion has the potential to turnaround the image of a region economically. The Trends in Bottom of Pyramid research entire conclusion can be summarised into a statement Not much of the relevant literature exists on the Bottom that Financial and Social Inclusion are imperative for rural of Pyramid approach in the tourism industry. An analysis development. As rightly pointed out earlier, literature also of word count conducted using the Nvivo software on highlights that, there are flaws in the policies of financial 50 research papers on the Bottom of Pyramid approach inclusion of the policymakers. There is much more focus highlights that major themes and patterns around which on the results such as opening of bank account but less the literature revolves are conceptualising the bottom pressure is given on the means to achieve those results. of pyramid and understanding how this approach The rural people lack a reason to open bank accounts and works. The other themes and patterns identified were use financial service more often owing to less requirement the consumers that would be part of the bottom of the due to limited applications of these resources. The pyramid on the basis of their income, innovations that government should make provisions to enable them would be required in the products or services to change to sue financial resources more openly, regularly and the product offering for such economic class. The conveniently. Similarly, strategies regarding social interesting take away is that the tourism word does not inclusions are not working as required. feature in our list. So, it can be assumed that there has not Rural Tourism can be an answer to both of the problems been given much thought on application of the bottom discussed above. By providing a means to apply financial of pyramid approach in tourism industry. The following resources such as acceptance of digital payments, table lists down the major areas where research has been financial convergence could be achieved among rural carried out under this domain- people. Also, by inviting society at large, there could be Table 2 Top Themes of Researrch in Domain of Bottom a mutual exchange of customs, knowledge and traditions of Pyramid (BoP) which could assist in social inclusion at a better rate than teaching about them in classrooms. So, keeping in mind Weighted Major papers covering Word Count these facts, two prominent questions can be drawn that Percentage the word the literature fails to answer convincingly. First, what should be the best way to channelize financial inclusion (Herrera & Alarilla, 2012) through the tourism industry? And Second, which rural (Antúnez-de-Mayolo, tourism product is best capable of promoting social Bop 3049 2.29 2012) (Hammer & Pivo, inclusion? This study, therefore, tends to present the best 2016) (Ismail & Baloch, ways tourism can be used to promote financial inclusion 2015) more effectively and the possible impact of rural tourism Business 1595 1.28 (Abraham, 2012) and its products on social inclusion, thereby contributing to rural development. Poor 798 0.64 (Kapil Dev Regmi, 2017) 2.2 Trends in Bottom of Pyramid research (Pervez, Maritz, & Waal, Social 610 0.49 Bottom of Pyramid (BoP) is an approach that suggests 2013) that a lot of business potential can be found amongst the economically weaker section of the society. This Products 990 0.80 (Ismail & Baloch, 2015) approach propounded by C. K. Prahlad refers to BoP as a market-based model of economic development that Poverty 435 0.35 (Kapil Dev Regmi, 2017) promises to simultaneously alleviate widespread poverty while providing growth and profits for multinational (Dent, Ansted, & Aasen, corporations. An application of this model is that Value 394 0.32 2018) (Mazambani & Mutambara, 2018) businesses should create a mesh between convenience, that they aim to provide to their top customers, at a low (Pervez, Maritz, & Waal, cost so that poor section could enjoy the product to their innovation 322 0.26 2013) (Tabeck, Singh, & maximum satisfaction. It could also imply to modify Kumar, 2018) the product offering in such a manner that it changes the dimensions of product to better serve the customers at the bottom of the pyramid. This modification in Source: Author’s compilation product offering will directly impact the marketing mix The following figure is a diagrammatic representation of of the businesses. It will alter their pricing strategy and most recurring 100 words identified from research papers Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 14 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Rural Tourism: A Paradigm Shift to Emerging Socio-Economic Challenges adoption with the help of a decade of research papers and systematically consolidate the findings. (Pervez, Maritz, & Waal, 2013) developed a conceptual framework to testify and formulate a model for identifying the success criteria to determine innovations in the market belonging to the bottom of pyramid consumer group. (Mason, Chakrabarti, & Singh, 2013) studied the impact that the bottom of the pyramid markets can have on initiatives that would assist in eliminating poverty. (Dent, Ansted, & Aasen, 2018) conducted a review of sixty case studies to testify the BOP- centric strategies followed by different companies. The research suggested that the role of the poor, the industry, BOP-appropriate business models and the partnerships influence the development and the success of the BOP businesses. (Raj & Aithal, 2018) Figure 2 Most Frequently Occuring 100 Words in conducted a literature review of articles on strategies Research Papers in Domain of Bottom of Pyramid (BoP) through which businesses can market themselves to the consumers in the bottom of the pyramid group. Source: Author’s compilation The Conclusion from available literature The key conclusion from the literature can be summarised as an overview of the concept of BoP. (Antúnez-de- As rightly pointed out by various authors in their studies, Mayolo, 2012) examined the role of innovation in serving there exists a potential market for products and services customers belonging to low-income group. The study amongst the economically poor section of the society. addressed the different types of innovations available Since its practical applicability has not been tested in terms to the firms and the pros and cons associated with each of various industries especially about the tourism, there of the strategies. (Ismail & Baloch, 2015) examined the exist several unanswered questions that could potentially behaviour of consumers belonging to the lower -income change the scenario of tourism industry in the long run. A group with respect to branded personal care products via person belonging to the low-income group does not have shopping and brand preference, personalized relationship the same aspirations with respect to products and service and word of mouth. The study concluded that the bottom being offered as compared to a high- income consumer. of pyramid market tends to avoid purchasing the product Thus, basic infrastructure development at unexplored based on publicity, although they end up purchasing a tourist destinations could motivate them to visit such product if they wish to. places. (Seng, Sum, & Mahfar, 2015) explored the ways to market 3. The Rationale of the study & future scope the products to the consumer group at the bottom of the The systematic review of literature highlights the pyramid. The study was carried out as a literature review major challenges associated with the missions of the and proposed strategy for the same. (Mazambani & government and how these challenges could be better Mutambara, 2018) addressed the failures of the initiatives addressed. The first section could be summarized as the to eliminate poverty. The study concludes that sustainable failure of existing measures and schemes to effectively business-led poverty alleviation is achievable when promote financial and social inclusion in the rural low-income customer perspectives are captured in the regions of the country. The Banking system has been business solutions aimed at addressing the foundational the go-through channel for the government to promote causes of poverty. (Morais-da-Silva, Nobre, & Orsiolli, financial and social inclusion. But the literature highlights 2018) analysed the performance of companies and their that the existing policies lacks the means to achieve the contribution to the mechanism of sustainability. The desired results of the schemes. Rural tourism, therefore study concluded that such companies have importance could act as the required means which can persuade rural for economic and social sustainability but lack concern for people to use financial instruments. Whether it is use of environmental sustainability. (Abraham, 2012) concluded bank accounts for storing their income generated, or that to ensure that business within the lower-income use of instruments such as digital payment or obtaining group consumer is profitable, one needs to address the loans through organized structures, rural tourism could issues surrounding the macroeconomic and business thereby provide an opportunity for rural people. In rural climate in a country. The study also explored certain areas, people would be persuaded to the use financial business models that have been successful in profitable services to lure the customers to them or use it as a providing services in this segment. competitive advantage. Similarly, rural tourism can also (Tabeck, Singh, & Kumar, 2018) tried to understand be a useful channel to promote social inclusion in society. innovations for Bottom of Pyramid markets and their By providing a place to know about the local customs,
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 15 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Rural Tourism: A Paradigm Shift to Emerging Socio-Economic Challenges values and food habits; by providing a place to stay close Chandrashekhara Y. (2018). Agro-tourism and employment to nature, rural tourism would facilitate the exchange of opportunities in karnataka : an economic analysis. Epitome: everything a place to offer between people of various International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, 4(3). ethnic, religious, economic or demographic backgrounds. Čivre, Ž., & Omerzel, D. G. (2015). The behaviour of tourism Since India is a diverse country, therefore the potential firms in the area of innovativeness. Economic Research- Ekonomska Istraživanja , 312-330. to exchange information is limitless and everlasting. D.V, R., Reddy.S, V., & Shilpa, V. (2016). Rural Tourism- A The third issue discussed was the lack of opportunities Catalyst for Rural Economic Growth. International Journal amongst rural areas. Rural tourism can act as an alternate of Humanities and Social Science Invention Vol. 5 Issue 5, 14-19. avenue for earning revenue to rural people. Rural tourism D.Vanitha, & Dr.D.Vezhaventhan. (2018). A Study On Rural would require trained personnel who could be used Development In TamilNadu. International Journal of Pure in other allied services as well. Since India has a lot of and Applied Mathematics, 71-86. rural areas, thus, a lot of business opportunities also exist Dent, E., Ansted, R., & Aasen, C. (2018). Profit and Social Value: within the rural people. Even if one decides that rural An Analysis of Strategies and Sustainability at the Base tourism development could solve the problem, but there of the Pyramid. Journal of International & Interdisciplinary are still certain questions that need to be answered for Business Research, 110-137. Garjola, R., & Singh, K. (2017). Analytical Study on the effective strategy implementation. 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Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 17 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020, pp. 33-35
Tourism Management in UTs of J & K and Ladakh Post Abrogation of Article 370 of Indian Constitution
G. G. Saxena & Ambuj Saxena
Abrogation of Article 370 by the Central Government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 9th August 2019 is a big step in Indian History. Many sections of the media, general population and International community have welcomed the historic step in the hope that the northernmost state of India will part with the violence witnessed since independence and witness a development story unfold for Jammu and Kashmir citizens. Tourism will hold the biggest component for the development of the state and will be the easiest to achieve in the short term if certain conditions are set in place. These conditions are important to identify and the previous precedents in other states need to be learnt from, in order to accelerate the growth story of Jammu and Kashmir. This paper delves into the bureaucratic obstacles that need to be overcome and present ideas for a flourishing Tourism Development story of Jammu and Kashmir post-Abrogation of Article 370. Keywords: Tourism Development, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Article 370, Film Tourism, Tourism Infrastructure, Bureaucracy.
It was a historic announcement that the Central Legal Angle Government promulgated ‘the Jammu and Kashmir Legally speaking, there is no direct relationship between Reorganisation Act, 2019’ and abolished Article 370 & abrogation of Article 370 & 35A and development of 35A thereby removing special rights that Jammu and tourism in J & K State except that after removal of special Kashmir enjoyed under the Indian constitution. The status of J and K state, big investors of India from outside State of Jammu and Kashmir is bifurcated into two J and K State may legally buy land in the state and create Union Territories (UTs) one as Jammu and Kashmir huge infrastructure which is very necessary to give with an Assembly, at par with the status of Pudduchery impetus to tourism. UT, and second as Ladakh UT without an Assembly, at par with Andaman Nicobar UT, with area comprised of Tourism is generally treated as ‘peace time activity’. Districts of Kargil and Leh while area of J & K UT remains Since 1950 to 1990 Kashmir valley had reasonably good existing area of the State of J & K (which includes POK tourism arrival as there was relatively less terrorism. area) minus area of newly created Ladakh UT. As per There are hundreds of Bollywood films which were shot Notification number S.O. 2889(E) dated 9th August, 2019 there and popularised various destinations like Gulmarg, this arrangement will come into force with effect from Pahalgaon, Patni, Srinagar with Dal Lake and Shikaras as 31st October 2019. iconic destinations Both UTs shall be governed under Article 239A of Indian In recent years, with terrorism on its height due to support Constitution by one Lieutenant Governor who will be of neighbouring country, too, the Valley witnessed a low a Representative of the President of India and working domestic and foreign tourists’ arrival with approximately under supervision of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt. 9, 12.5,12 and 8.5 lac, in the years 2015, 2016, 2017 and of India (MHA, GoI). Here, it is worthwhile to mention lowest in 2018 despite a number of promotional events that status of UT of J & K shall not be at par with National by various tourism stakeholders from India and abroad. Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi which is, though UT with Besides this, other development activities were almost an Assembly is given special status as National Capital at a halt in recent years and this may be one of the with more financial powers to be a model for other UTs main reasons that Central government had to resort and is governed under Article 239AA of the Constitution. toabrogation of the said Article in J and K State. Central Government seems to be determined to make plans for
Dr. G.G. Saxena Tourism Expert & IAS (AGMUT Cadre) Rtd. and served at Secretary Level in UTs Ambuj Saxena Ex MICA | Entrepreneur | Co-Founder BnBNation | Blogger | Researcher
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 18 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Tourism Management in UTs of J & K and Ladakh Post Abrogation... overall development including that of tourism in the area ‘transferred subject’ under Transaction of Business Rules and same may be gauzed from discussion in Cabinet of the UT of J & K and will be under control of elected UT meetings for implementation of Central Schemes in the Government instead of being under direct control of LG State alongside the steps taken for normalcy to return in or Centre. Unless both UT and centre work in tandem, fast the Valley. development of tourism and hospitality will be a distant dream. Also, it is very likely that the elected Government Safety and Security of Tourists in J&K in UT may not have same political ideology with the Most important factor to boost tourism in the Valley is to Centre. It may become a blame game between UT and provide safety and security for common man and tourists. Centre as was recently witnessed between NCT of Delhi Direct intervention of Central Government, presence and the Centre. However, here challenges are very many of paramilitary forces with least interference from the and reputation will be at stake for both Governments to separatists and local politicians having vested interests deliver on the ground. It will be primary concern of the may work as ‘confidence building measures’ for common Centre that terrorism is kept at bay and to ensure fast people living here and incoming tourists in the Valley. development in all sectors. Tourism Stakeholders’ Views If resolve of political party in power in the centre is to be given credit, solid and visible steps will be taken to All stakeholders have commented positively about implement the old and new schemes pending in the J and prospects of overall development including tourism in K. Draft Tourism Policy of J and K which had been on the newly constituted UTs. As per print media reports, paper only can now be given impetus as LG may ensure the travel and tourism industry welcomed the Centre’s to implement the guidelines laid down in it. As per move to make the two regions separate UTs but it will be a decision of the Centre, it is learnt that about Rs.1000 crore long road ahead in terms of development.Representative is kept as package for developing all sectors in J and K. of Hotel and Restaurant Association of Western India This money can now be utilised under direct supervision (HRAWI), welcomed the government’s move because of Central Government through LG who in turn will get “almost 50-60 per cent of the total population of Jammu & the bureaucracy to show results. There is less likelihood Kashmir is directly and indirectly engaged in hospitality of ‘rampant corruption’ in this system as leakage of funds and tourism or related ancillary related activities and will be curtailed to a great extent under changed scenario. therefore tourism contributes about 15 per cent to state The Valley needs appropriate infrastructure like roads, GDP. It was added that ‘This move of the government industries, more institutions for skill training and will bring in more investment in all sectors, i.e., industry, education, tourism amenities, last mile connectivity private and public educational institutions, construction with huge financial funding by public as well as private of roads and last mile connectivity to approach tourism sectors. By bringing normalcy in the area, tourism will destinations.’ Representative of Yatra.com said, “The automatically get an impetus as the Valley has huge situation in Kashmir will have a short- to medium-term natural potential. impact on the number of people travelling to the valley. MakeMyTrip Representative was of the view that “With There are some invisible obstacles in utilisation of Central a rising hope that novel initiatives would be taken to Funds, as pointed out by some IAS officers of AGMUT elevate the current tourism graph to greater heights (Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Mizoram and UTs) Cadre. It leading to better employment opportunities within the is pointed out that the Government of India must assess tourism and allied sectors,” the capability and positive attitude of its own officials sitting in Centre (UT Division of MHA), whether they are Some Stakeholders opined that the central government capable of visualising aspirations of locals for fulfilling can encourage business to invest in Jammu & Kashmir, political will of the Centre and UT. As per experience and in Ladakh, now with a long-term view. There is of working as IAS officer in AGMUT Cadre, there are likely shortage of hotel rooms as tourism arrival will potentially dangerous risks of even innocuous Hits and increase; the same may be taken care of by encouraging Errors. While negative results over a period of time can ‘home stays or BnBs’ with more incentives and simplified be addressed in peaceful UTs, the Administration in these regulations. Other tourism stakeholders, too, commented UTs, can hardly afford this mistake as the area is situated that such move will have a positive impact and attract next to the international border. more tourists in the Valley provided the situation normalises in area. UT of Ladakh scenario UT of J & K Scenario The tribes in Ladakh presently have limited means of livelihood, poor roads, impossible telecom and internet Positive impact on Tourism will depend upon ensuring connectivity, undeveloped markets for their produce and synergy between UT elected government on one hand low employment opportunities. The proximity of the and the central government on the other hand. It is India-Pakistan-China border and other factors related to clarified that ‘Tourism and Hospitality’ matter falls in its isolation make its people more vulnerable.
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 19 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Tourism Management in UTs of J & K and Ladakh Post Abrogation... Now, it will all depend upon political will of the central Development etc.‘Tourism Management Monitoring and government as to how much importance it gives to Implementation Committee’ under Lieutenant Governor tourism development in Ladakh region. It may develop of J and K and Ladakh may comprise of following its own ‘tourism policy for Ladakh’ as had been done in stakeholders from Public and Private Sectors: case of UT of Andaman Nicobar Islands. The Homestays 1. LG of UT in chair in Ladakh could be a wonderful example to give thrust 2. Chief secretary to tourism to attract tourists who wish to stay with locals and enjoy exchange of culture One of theformer J & K 3. Joint Secretary* (MHA GoI) bureaucrats mentioned that the LG will have powers 4. Joint Secretary* (Min of Tourism GoI) to administer the Ladakh UT in the name of President 5. Joint Secretary* (Min of Skill development GoI) of India. Ministry of Home affairs is the administrative authority in MHA for matters related to Ladakh. Like 6. Representative of NITI Ayog** Andaman and Nicobar UT, the Central Government may 7. Secretary Tourism UT Member Secretary and make plans for development and promotion of tourism Convenor without any effective interference from erstwhile local 8. MD Tourism Corporation of UT politicians with vested interests. In fact, under the elected 9. Two Representatives of All India Tourism Government of J and K, Ladakh and even Jammu was Federations being completely ignored for development and State funds were generally utilised, or for that matter, mis- 10. Two Experts of UT, One academician from a utilised for Kashmir only. The MHA, LG and Chief University and one Expert of Tourism from UT Secretary will decide on issues related to tourism and There may be Quarterly Meetings to monitor and Hospitality based on financial budget provided to this implement Tourism schemes after finalising tourism UT. policy separately for UT of J & K and Ladakh. * Or it’s Representative. Way Forward ** Andaman Nicobar is being developed with In view of popularity of film shooting locations, ‘Film intervention of NITI Aayog. Tourism’ may continue to be a niche Tourism with an eye on ‘High End Tourism’ as a Policy. While Home Stays/ References: (As accessed on 1st October, 2019) BnBs especially in rural areas need to be more encouraged https: // www.greaterkashmir.com /news/business/ in UT of Ladakh, this concept is to be integrated with in-2018-kashmir-witnessed-lowest-ever-tourist-footfall- tourism management plan for J & K as tourists may like in-7-years/ to experience local traditions and authentic local cuisines. New Regime should give significant incentives like https://www.google.com/search?q = consequences and financial subsidy / interest-free loans and exemptions + views + on + abrogation + of + Article + 370 + of + indian from GST and other charges for aspirants of home + condtitution&rlz = 1C1CHBF_enIN840IN840&oq owners who wish to create BnBs or home stays in their = consequences + and + views + + on + abrogation + existing homes. There is necessity of creating Tourism of + Article + 370 + of + indian + condtitution&aqs = Police Establishment with participation of local residents chrome..69i57.63860j1j7 & sourceid = chrome&ie = UTF-8 as Special Police Officers and Guards to provide personal https://economictimes . indiatimes.com /news/politics safety of guests near tourism places, Air Ports, Railway - and - nation/ view - ladakh - will - greatly - benefit - Stations Bus Stations, Taxi Stands, market areas from-governments - decision - to - make - it - into - a - union - territory/articleshow/70577272.cms Formation of Tourism Monitoring and Implementation Committee search?q = consequences + and + views + on + abrogation + of + Article + 370 + of + indian + condtitution & rlz There is lot of difference between allocating funds through = 1C1CHBF_enIN840IN840 & oq = consequences + and Central Packages and actual implementation of same on + views ++ on + abrogation + of + Article +370 + of + the ground. If all stakeholders synergize their efforts with indian + condtitution & aqs = chrome..69i57.63860j1j7 & Central Government at top, development of Tourism will sourceid = chrome & ie = UTF-8 certainly take place in the Valley. Need of the hour is that the central government should constitute a ‘Monitoring https: // economictimes.indiatimes.com /news/politics- and Implementation Committees’ in all important sectors and-nation /view-ladakh-will-greatly-benefit-from- like urban infrastructure, PWD, tourism, MSME and Skill governments - decision-to-make-it-into-a-union-territory /articleshow / 70577272.cms
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 20 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020, pp. 36-46
Economic Impacts of Tourism Upon the Quality of Life of Residents of Anand District of Gujarat State
Subhashish Mishra & Amar Deshpande
Tourism, as we understand today, is a global industry. It is an important economic activity the world over. It not only contributes directly to the nation’s economy but it also has significant linkages with several other sectors like agriculture, animal husbandry, handicrafts, construction, transportation, entertainment etc. The income from overall export of inbound tourism, including passenger transport, exceeded USD 1075 billion in 2012. Globally, tourism accounts for as much as 30 percent of the world’s export of commercial services and 6 percent of overall exports of goods and services. The tremendous positive impact created by tourism sector has enforced various nations to increase their efforts in developing their tourism sector and gear up to capture as much as possible the ever escalating international tourism market. Now we can see tourism will not be stopped (at least not in a free and democratic society), out judicious planning laws negative controls and positive incentives can help to control where tourists go, and spread what is bound to be an increasing tourist load. Residents have both positive and negative perceptions towards tourism impacts in their community. From a general point of view, it seems clear that the host community acknowledges the economic benefits of tourism. The cultural and social benefits are also perceived as an advantage by residents, but to a low degree. Positive social impacts included increase of social interaction with pilgrims and tourists, reduction of migration, Increase of sense of security, friendly communication with nearby villages, and reduction of social conflicts in the village. Thus tourism can improve the quality of life in an area by increasing the number of attractions, recreational opportunities, and services. Tourism offers resident’s opportunities to meet interesting people, make friendships, learn about the world, and expose themselves to new perspectives. Experiencing different cultural practices enriches experiences, broadens horizons, and increases insight and appreciation for different approaches to living. Keywords: Tourism, Tourist’s Perception, Economic Impact & Quality of Life.
Introduction steps. A National Policy on tourism was announced in 1982. Later in 1988, the National Committee on Tourism The first conscious and organized efforts to promote formulated a comprehensive plan for achieving a tourism in India were made in 1945 when a committee sustainable growth in tourism. In 1992, a National Action was set up by the Government under the Chairmanship Plan was prepared and in 1996 the National Strategy for of Sir John Sargent, the then Educational Adviser to the Promotion of Tourism was drafted. In 1997, the New Government of India (Krishna, A.G., 1993). Thereafter, Tourism Policy recognizes the roles of Central and State the development of tourism was taken up in a planned governments, public sector undertakings and the private manner in 1956 coinciding with the Second Five Year sector in the development of tourism were. The need for Plan. The approach has evolved from isolated planning involvement of Panchayati Raj institutions, local bodies, of single unit facilities in the Second and Third Five Year non-governmental organisations and the local youth in Plans. The Sixth Plan marked the beginning of a new era the creation of tourism facilities has also been recognized. when tourism began to be considered a major instrument for social integration and economic development. An Overview of Anand & its tourism attractions: But it was only after the 80’s that tourism activity gained Anand district, the name that has been inscribed in momentum. The Government took several significant golden letters in the history of modern India because
Dr. Subhashish Mishra Assistant Professor, Hospitality Management, C Z Patel College of Business and Management, ADIT Campus, New Vallabh Vidyanagar, Gujarat Mr. Amar Deshpande Research Scholar, Hospitality Management, Jagran, Lakecity University, Bhopal, M. P.
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 21 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Economic Impacts of Tourism Upon the Quality of Life of Residents of White revolution and the largest co-operative sector Kartick Chakraborty, Dipankar Chatterjee and Arnab development, was basically part of the Kheda district. It’s Das (2012) concluded that if the host in a tourist centre only in 1997 when Anand got its existence. So the history is one major component, the other complimentary of the Anand district is not so old but yes as a part of components is the tourists or the guests. Interaction “Charotar” (Another name of the Kheda district in vogue) between host and guest is a key element in the total it has very vast and rich legacy. Anand is also called number of components of socio-cultural impacts, effecting “Charotar” as it’s the home of goodly land, a tract of the various changes to the hosts’ life style, traditions, norms, most fertile and well tilled soil. Even the dialect spoken habits, beliefs and values by the people inhabiting here is called “Charotari”. The Milan Ambro`(2008) said that the empirical study word “Charotar” is derived from the Sanskrit word proves that perceptions of tourism development by local “Charu” meaning beautiful. The land is fertile and Green residents are based on what kind of tourism they prefer with vegetation and so it pleases the eye and is called and what its impacts are. Place attachment represented Charotar tract. Though the entire area is prosperous and by natural environment quality, tourism and leisure productive, some parts of the Khambhat Taluka and facilities and length of residency play a significant role in Tarapur Taluka called “Bhaal” region is having problems their perceived tourism development. In his model, the of agricultural productivity because of the saline land relationship between negative impacts, cultural change and sea coast effect. But the wheat of “Bhaal” region is impacts, service accessibility, place satisfaction, quality very famous because of its superior quality. of living and safety of living and tourism development Places of interest include Bochasan, Vadtal, Anand, is not significant, and that proves that local residents Borsad, Khambhat, Tarapur, Piplav etc. mainly for are more supportive of tourism development when they pilgrim tourism, depicts mainly Hinduism including are newcomers and when they clearly perceive positive Sanatan Dharma. tourism impacts. Mohammed I. Eraqi (2007) concluded that tourism Review of Literature development in Egypt has not only contributed to economic benefits in terms of job creation and has not only K Rajasekharan Nayar, K Mohandas and Muhammed increased investment and development projects to the Shaffi (2015) stated Massive footfalls at pilgrim towns Egyptian local tourist destinations but also has resulted in increase the risk of major accidents and disrupt the local soiciocultural benefits of an increase in national income, ecology. From a public health point of view, communicable more positive cultural exchange, and yielding positive diseases can be considered as a major problem inherent economic impacts on local businesses. in mass gatherings, especially when large numbers of people congregate in small areas for a short duration. This (Prospects and Problems of Tourism; Geography is typical of many religious events such as the Kumbh of Tourism in India ; MODULE - 10-B ; assessed on Mela, annual pilgrimage to Sabarimala. 10/02/2020) Prospects and Problems of Tourism article summarized Sandra María Sánchez Cañizares; Julia M. Núñez that India’s share in world’s tourism is still very low both Tabales and Fernando J. Fuentes García (2013) concluded in the number of tourist arrivals and in foreign exchange In order to ensure the success of tourism development earnings. Tourism accounts for our third largest export plans in a geographic area, it is vital to take into item in the country’s foreign trade in terms of earnings. account diverse groups of stakeholders; and especially Tourism industry creates new jobs at a faster pace and the perceptions and attitudes of the local community with relatively low investment. It tones up the economy regarding the impact of tourism development from an and quality of life in under developed areas as are economic, socio-cultural and environmental point of the geographically isolated tracts in the mountains. view. In this study, they analysed the perceptions and International tourism promotes the export of invisible attitudes of the inhabitants of the island of São Vicente in products without sending them out of India, in the form the Cape Verde archipelago. of hospitality service rendered to tourists during the stay Mehdi Pourtaheri, Khalil Rahmani & Hassan Ahmadi in our tourist areas. They also carry many of our fanciful (2012) said that pilgrims and religious tourists are articles like handicrafts, without incurring any cost of strongly influenced in rural areas, but the social aspect of their transport or advertisement by us. Cash earning from pilgrimage and religious tourism had the largest impacts the stay of foreign tourists makes up our unfavourable on rural households. Positive social impacts included balance of trade. The natural environment and heritage Increase of social interaction with pilgrims and tourists sites remain a source of attraction as long as these are , Reduction of migration, particularly for young people, not damaged beyond control from their degradation or Increase of sense of security , Friendly communication pollution. Massive tourist traffic, unless regulated creates with nearby villages, and Reduction of social conflicts in these mal-effects. Tourist carrying capacity of a resort the village. needs to be matched to minimise the inconveniences of
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 22 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Economic Impacts of Tourism Upon the Quality of Life of Residents local people during the period of tourist rush. Youths of the interaction of elements important to individuals and the host area are also to be saved from cultural alienation their perceptions of the impact of tourism on their life by blindly initiating the lifestyle of foreigners during satisfaction. It adds to existing knowledge by creating a days of reckless massive tourism model that explains factors regarding how individuals’ perceptions of tourism impacts vary according to Objectives the destination development stage, the factors which The proposed study has following objectives:- influence the particular life domains, and the factors 1. To understand the economic impacts of tourism upon which subsequently affect individuals’ life satisfaction. the quality of life of residents of Anand. Practical application for the tourism-planning program: 2. To verify the socio cultural impact of tourism upon The findings of this study will aid in the planning of the quality of life of residents of Anand. strategic development programs for tourist destination 3. To assess the impact of tourism on residents like Anand for all religious based tourism. The model satisfaction with living conditions can be helpful in understanding factors that influence the quality of life of residents in the tourism community. An 4. To access the residents’ satisfaction with health & understanding of what is important to the individuals safety conditions due to tourism. within a community will assist resource planners to Hypothesis preserve that which is most valued. The proposed study has following hypotheses:- Therefore, even though residents perceive a positive impact of tourism associated with their life satisfaction in H01: Residents’ life satisfaction in general is a positive function of their perceptions of the benefits of the the maturity stage that might not last long. Such a feeling economic impact of tourism may turn quickly into negative perceptions. So, tourism developers should plan a strategy that has residents start H : Residents’ life satisfaction in general is a positive 02 to perceive positive impact of tourism in the beginning function of their perceptions of the benefits of the stage of the development in order to fully recognize socio-cultural impact of tourism the economic & socio cultural impact of tourism in the H03: Respondents having all tourism related jobs are growth stage. more satisfied with Health & Safety Conditions in comparison to those who are not fully involved in Sources of Information tourism related jobs The study conducted with the primary, secondary and Importance of the Study other qualitative inputs that identify and examine the This study investigates how tourism affects the quality of impact of tourism on quality of life. Research has to rely life (QOL) of residents in tourism destinations that vary hereby on the field survey techniques, i.e. questioners, in the stage of development. The proposed model in this interviews and observations as well as published and study structurally depicts that satisfaction with life in unpublished reports & records, journals, periodicals, general derives from the satisfaction with particular life newspapers and magazine to collect primary and domains. Overall life satisfaction is derived from material secondary data. Information regarding sources is given well-being, which includes the consumer’s sense of well below in detail: being as it is related to material possessions, community Primary Sources well-being, emotional well-being, and health and safety wellbeing domains. The model also points that residents’ The primary information has been gathered from perception of tourism impacts (economic, socio-cultural) households of Anand District. A well structured affects their satisfaction of particular life domains. Lastly, questionnaire was administered to collect the information this study investigates that tourism development stages about impact of tourism on their quality of life. moderate the relationship between residents’ perception Secondary sources of tourism impacts and their satisfaction with particular life domains. Thus, the study suggests that the proposed Adequate secondary sources have been searched for the model should be further tested and verified using study. The secondary sources of information have been longitudinal data. gathered from the following: A. Annual reports of Tourism industry Scope of the Study B. Journal, magazines, newspapers The potential contribution of this study can be seen from both theoretical and practical perspectives: Techniques of Gathering Information Theoretical advancement in tourism study: This study The survey has been conducted with the help of contributes to a theoretical advancement in the field of questionnaires specially designed for the study. To collect tourism by proposing a model to explain the effects of the in-depth information about the impact of tourism on
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 23 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Economic Impacts of Tourism Upon the Quality of Life of Residents quality of life, 5-point likert scale starting strongly agree of tourism related jobs followed by some jobs to strongly disagree has been used. (N=60, Percentage=16.67) and a little jobs (N=56, Percentage=15.56). 5.56% respondents (N=20) are having Sampling lots of jobs related to tourism while 5% respondents The sample of 360 households has been selected by (N=18) are not involved in any tourism related jobs. stratified and purposive sampling technique to include all types of households of Anand. Economic Impact of Tourism on Quality of Life of Respondents Analysis of Data Respondents were requested to share their level of These primary data so gathered has been tabulated agreement for various statements. The degree of analyzed and interpreted with the help of appropriate agreement towards statements was set from 1 to 5 (5 analytical methods. Editing was done for having denotes the strongly agree, whereas, 1 is the strongly complete, accurate and consistent data. After this, the disagree). data was coded numerically so that groups could be In addition following criteria is used for analysis part:- made with similar characteristics. Once the data had been The score among 1.00-1.80 means Strongly Disagree checked, they were arranged in a form that enabled it to The score among 1.81-2.60 means Disagree be analyzed. Quantifiable data from the questionnaires was coded into the Statistical Package for Social Sciences The score among 2.61-3.40 means Neutral (SPSS 15.0) for analysis. SPSS 15.0 was selected because it The score among 3.41-4.20 means Agree was considered to be user-friendly. Statistical techniques The score among 4.21-5.00 means Strongly Agree were then employed to analyze the data collected from The analysis summaries the agreement level of the survey. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were respondents towards 15 statements. used as tools of evaluation in the data analysis. The sample frequency was used to make statistical inferences about It can be observed that respondents are strongly agree with views of respondents towards eco friendly practices. The the statements that Real estate prices in the community data was analyzed using different methods i.e. Mean, have increased because of tourism (Mean Score=4.47), standard deviation, trend analysis etc. Student’s t test the benefits of tourism to the community outweigh its was used to test the hypotheses. A brief discussion on costs (Mean Score = 4.25), Tourism creates employment the statistical techniques chosen for this research and the opportunities for residents in the community (Mean rationale behind them is presented below. Score = 4.23) and The cost of living in the community has increased because of tourism (Mean Score = 4.21). The Demographic Profile of Respondents residents of Somnath are agreed to points that Tourism This section of chapter will deal with the demographic brings important economic benefits to the residents of the profile of respondents i.e. Age, Gender, Educational community (Mean Score = 3.90), Tourism brings more Qualification, Area of Residence, marital Status, investment to the community’s economy (Mean Score Occupation, Monthly Income etc. = 3.66), Tourism helps National Government generate foreign exchange earnings (Mean Score = 3.88), Tourism 1. Gender of Respondents generates tax revenues for Local Governments (Mean Maximum numbers (N=263, Percentage=73.06) of Score = 4.00), Tourism helps improve the economic respondents were male and rest 26.94% respondents situation for many residents in this community (Mean were female. Score = 3.72), Local business benefits the most from 2. Age of Respondents tourists (Mean Score = 3.41) and The prices of many Maximum numbers (N=176, Percentage=48.89) belong goods and services in the community have increased to the age group of 41 – 60 years followed by 44.44% because of tourism (Mean Score = 3.85). (N=160) respondents who belong to the age group of 21 For few of the statements respondents hold neutral to 40 years. 6.67% (N=24) respondents were from age opinion, it means they are neither agree nor disagree with category of up to 20 years. the statements that Tourism provides desirable jobs in the community (Mean Score = 2.94), , Our standard of living 3. Household Income of Respondents has increased due to tourist spending in the community Majority of respondents (N=298, Percentage=82.78) (Mean Score = 3.36) and Tax revenues from tourism and are having household income between Rs. 40,001 used to improve roads, highways, and public services to 60,000 followed by More than Rs. 60,000 (N=62, for residents (Mean Score = 2.90). Respondents showed Percentage=17.22). disagreement with the statement that one of the most 4. Tourism Related Job of Respondents important aspects of tourism is that it creates a variety of jobs for the residents in the community (Mean Score Maximum number of respondents (N=206, = 2.43). Percentage=57.22) are involved in all types
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In conclusion it can be inferred that tourism has Real estate prices in the EI- Strongly significant impact on economic life aspects of residents of community have increased 4.47 14 Agree Somnath. If we talk about positive aspects the tourism has because of tourism. increased employment opportunities, economic benefits, The cost of living in the EI- Strongly tax, foreign exchange earnings, investment opportunities, community has increased 4.21 15 Agree local business and economic situation but on the counter because of tourism. side as a negative the tourism has increased prices of goods, cost of living, and real estate prices. It is also a negative impact on quality of life of respondents that instead of creation more employment opportunities the residents are not getting desired jobs due to the increment in tourism. Table1. Economic Impact of Tourism on Quality of Life of Respondents
S. Mean Level of Statement No Score Agreement
The benefits of tourism to the Strongly EI-1 4.25 community outweigh its costs. Agree Tourism brings important EI-2 economic benefits to the 3.90 Agree residents of the community. Tourism creates employment Strongly EI-3 opportunities for residents in 4.23 Agree the community. Tourism provides desirable EI-4 2.94 Neutral jobs in the community One of the most important aspects of tourism is that it EI-5 2.43 Disagree creates a variety of jobs for the residents in the community. Local business benefits the most EI-6 3.41 Agree from tourists. Tourism brings more EI-7 investment to the community’s 3.66 Agree economy. Chart 1: Economic Impact of Tourism on Quality of Life Tourism helps National EI-8 Government generate foreign 3.88 Agree of Respondents exchange earnings. 2. Socio Cultural Impact of Tourism on Quality of Life Tourism generates tax revenues EI-9 4.00 Agree of Respondents for Local Governments. Our standard of living has To serve this objective, respondents were requested to EI- increased due to tourist 3.36 Neutral share their level of agreement for various statements. The 10 spending in the community. degree of agreement towards statements was set from 1 to Tax revenues from tourism 5 (5 denotes the strongly agree, whereas, 1 is the strongly EI- and used to improve roads, disagree). 2.90 Neutral 11 highways, and public services In addition following criteria is used for analysis part:- for residents. The score among 1.00-1.80 means Strongly Disagree Tourism helps improve the EI- economic situation for many 3.72 Agree The score among 1.81-2.60 means Disagree 12 residents in this community. `The score among 2.61-3.40 means Neutral The prices of many goods and EI- services in the community have 3.85 Agree The score among 3.41-4.20 means Agree 13 increased because of tourism. The score among 4.21-5.00 means Strongly Agree
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 25 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Economic Impacts of Tourism Upon the Quality of Life of Residents The analysis is presented table 2, which summaries the Table 2: Socio Cultural Impact of Tourism on Quality agreement level of respondents towards 16 statements of Life of Respondents related to socio cultural impact of tourism. S. Mean Level of Statement The residents of Anand are strongly agreed that Tourism No. Score Agreement has increased residents’ pride in the local culture in the community (Mean Score = 4.53), but they are agreed to During the peak tourist season, I find it harder to get tickets for SI-1 2.42 Disagree the statements that Tourism has resulted in unpleasantly the theater, movies, concerts, or overcrowded parks for local residents (Mean Score = 3.47), athletic events. Because of tourism, roads and other local services are Tourism has resulted in well maintained (Mean Score = 3.57), Tourism helps keep SI-2 unpleasantly overcrowded 3.15 Neutral culture alive and helps maintain the ethnic identity of the hiking trails for local residents. local residents (Mean Score = 3.65), Meeting tourists from Tourism has resulted in all over the world is definitely a life enriching experience SI-3 unpleasantly overcrowded 3.47 Agree (Mean Score = 3.87), The cultural exchange between parks for local residents. residents and tourists is valuable for the residents (Mean Tourism has resulted in Score = 3.47), The cultural exchange between residents unpleasantly overcrowded SI-4 3.29 Neutral and tourists is pleasant for the residents (Mean Score shopping places for local = 3.44), and I would like to meet tourists from as many residents. countries as possible in order to learn about their cultures Tourism contributes social problems such as crime, drug (Mean Score = 3.70). SI-5 2.19 Disagree abuse, prostitution, and so forth Respondents are neither agreed nor disagreed that in the community. Tourism has resulted in unpleasantly overcrowded hiking Increased tourism provides trails for local residents (Mean Score = 3.15), Tourism has SI-6 more recreational opportunities 3.03 Neutral resulted in unpleasantly overcrowded shopping places for local residents. for local residents (Mean Score=3.29), Increased Because of tourism, roads and tourism provides more recreational opportunities for SI-7 other local services are well 3.57 Agree maintained. local residents (Mean Score=3.03), Tourism is a major reason for the variety of entertainment in the community Tourism is a major reason for the (Mean Score=3.25), Tourism encourages a variety of SI-8 variety of entertainment in the 3.25 Neutral community. cultural activities for local residents (Mean Score=3.23) Tourism has increased residents’ and The commercial demand of tourists causes changes in Strongly SI-9 pride in the local culture in the 4.53 Agree the style and forms of traditional arts and crafts, Tourism community. encourages residents to imitate the behaviour of the Tourism encourages a variety tourists and relinquish cultural traditions, Tourism causes SI- of cultural activities for local 3.23 Neutral 10 the disruption of traditional cultural behaviour patterns residents. in local residents. (Mean Score=2.94). Respondents are Tourism helps keep culture alive SI- disagreed to the points that during the peak tourist and helps maintain the ethnic 3.65 Agree 11 season, I find it harder to get tickets for the theatre, identity of the local residents. movies, concerts, or athletic events (Mean Score=2.42), The commercial demand of and Tourism contributes social problems such as crime, tourists causes changes in the drug abuse, prostitution, and so forth in the community style and forms of traditional (Mean Score=2.19). arts and crafts. Tourism SI- encourages residents to imitate 2.94 Neutral In a summary it can be observed that tourism has both 12 the behavior of the tourists and positive and negative impact on socio cultural life of relinquish cultural traditions. Anand’s residents. As a positive impact the tourism has Tourism causes the disruption given an opportunity of cultural exchange with tourists of traditional cultural behavior and it is also helping them in maintain their ethnic patterns in local residents. Meeting tourists from all over identity. Tourism has increased residents’ pride in the SI- the world is definitely a life 3.87 Agree local culture in the community and because of tourism 13 roads and other local services are well maintained. If enriching experience. The cultural exchange between we focus on negative aspects the tourism has increased SI- residents and tourists is valuable 3.92 Agree crowd in public places, and it is not giving recreational 14 for the residents. opportunities to local residents.
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The cultural exchange between The detailed analysis is presented in table 4.4 SI- residents and tourists is pleasant 3.44 Agree 15 Majority of respondents are dissatisfied with income of for the residents. current job (Mean Score = 2.25), economic security of job I would like to meet tourists (Mean Score = 2.32), pay and fringe benefits (Mean Score SI- from as many countries as 3.70 Agree = 2.57), real estate taxes (Mean Score = 2.12), and cost of 16 possible in order to learn about living in community (Mean Score = 2.50). Respondents their cultures. are neither satisfied nor dissatisfied with family income (Mean Score = 2.57), cost of basic necessities (Mean Score = 2.94), the conditions of the community environment (Mean Score = 3.10), Community Services (Mean Score = 2.65), Community facilities (Mean Score = 2.77), Community People (Mean Score = 2.80), Spare Time (Mean Score = 3.33) and leisure time (Mean Score=3.12). Residents are satisfied (Mean Score = 3.44) with the influx of tourists from all over the world into community. The overall average score is received 2.77 which shows that residents of Anand are neither satisfied nor dissatisfied with living conditions. Table 3: Respondents Satisfaction with Living Conditions
Mean Level of S. No. Statement Score Satisfaction Your income at your current SLC-1 2.25 Dissatisfied job. The economic security of SLC-2 2.32 Dissatisfied your job. SLC-3 Your family income. 2.87 Neutral The pay and fringe benefits SLC-4 2.57 Dissatisfied you receive. SLC-5 Your real estate taxes. 2.12 Dissatisfied The cost of living in your SLC-6 2.50 Dissatisfied community. The cost of basic necessities SLC-7 such as food, housing, and 2.94 Neutral clothing. Chart 4.3: Socio Cultural Impact of Tourism on Quality The conditions of the of Life of Respondents SLC-8 community environment 3.10 Neutral (air, water, land, etc.). 3. Impact of Tourism on Respondents Satisfaction The service you get in this with Living Conditions SLC-9 2.65 Neutral community. To measure the Respondents Satisfaction with Living SLC- The facilities you get in this Conditions, they were asked to indicate their level of 2.77 Neutral 10 community. satisfaction with living conditions on five point scale SLC- The people who live in this starting from highly satisfied (5) highly dissatisfied 2.80 Neutral (1). To get concrete results mean is calculated for each 11 community. SLC- element and in addition following criteria is used for Your spare time. 3.33 Neutral analysis part:- 12 SLC- Leisure activities in your The score among 1.00-1.80 means Highly 3.12 Neutral Dissatisfied 13 community. The influx of tourists from The score among 1.81-2.60 means Dissatisfied SLC- all over the world into your 3.44 Satisfied 14 The score among 2.61-3.40 means Neutral community. The score among 3.41-4.20 means Satisfied Total 2.77 Neutral The score among 4.21-5.00 means Highly Satisfied Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 27 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Economic Impacts of Tourism Upon the Quality of Life of Residents respondents (N=24, Percentage=6.67) are dissatisfied and highly dissatisfied with their health. The average score (3.8) has projected satisfaction of respondents with their health. Table 4.1: Satisfaction with Health
Response N Percentage Highly Dissatisfied 24 6.67 Dissatisfied 24 6.67 Neutral 6 1.67 Satisfied 252 70.00 Highly Satisfied 54 15.00 Total 360 100 Mean Score 3.8 Result Satisfied
Chart 3: Respondents Satisfaction with Living Conditions Chart 4.1: Satisfaction with Health 4 Respondents’ Satisfaction with Health & Safety Conditions due to Tourism 4.2 Satisfaction with Air Quality This section deals with the Respondents’ Satisfaction with Respondents were asked that whether they are satisfied Health & Safety Conditions due to Tourism, to measure with the air quality and results received are presented the satisfaction respondents were asked to indicate their in table 4.2. The average score is received as 3.8 which level of satisfaction towards health & safety conditions on projects that respondents are satisfied with the air quality five point scale starting from highly satisfied (5) highly of Anand district. dissatisfied (1). To get concrete results mean is calculated Table 4.2: Satisfaction with Air Quality for each element and in addition following criteria is used for analysis part:- Response N Percentage The score among 1.00-1.80 means Highly Dissatisfied Highly Dissatisfied 14 3.89 The score among 1.81-2.60 means Dissatisfied Dissatisfied 12 3.33
The score among 2.61-3.40 means Neutral Neutral 12 3.33 The score among 3.41-4.20 means Satisfied Satisfied 316 87.78 The score among 4.21-5.00 means Highly Satisfied The analysis is divided in following sub sections:- Highly Satisfied 6 1.67 4.1 Satisfaction with Health Total 360 100 Majority of respondents (N=252, Percentage=70) are Mean Score 3.8 satisfied with health and 15% respondents (N=54) are highly satisfied. 1.67% respondents (N=6) are Result Satisfied neither satisfied nor dissatisfied while equal number of
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 28 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Economic Impacts of Tourism Upon the Quality of Life of Residents their leisure life. In a whole average score (3.17) projects neutral opinion of respondents. Table 4.4: Satisfaction with Leisure Life
Response N Percentage Highly Dissatisfied 8 2.22 Dissatisfied 6 1.67 Neutral 292 81.11 Satisfied 24 6.67 Highly Satisfied 30 8.33 Chart 4.2: Satisfaction with Air Quality Total 360 100 4.3 Satisfaction with Water Quality Mean Score 3.17 Maximum numbers (N=112, Percentage=31.11) of respondents are highly dissatisfied with water quality Result Neutral and 24.72% respondents (N=89) are dissatisfied. Approximately 28% respondents (N=103) are satisfied with water quality. The average score of 2.53 projects that respondents are dissatisfied with the water quality of Anand Table 4.3: Satisfaction with Water Quality
Response N Percentage Highly Dissatisfied 112 31.11 Dissatisfied 89 24.72 Neutral 56 15.56 Satisfied 61 16.94 Highly Satisfied 42 11.67 Chart 4.4: Satisfaction with Leisure Life Total 360 100 4.5 Satisfaction with Cultural Life Mean Score 2.53 Respondents were asked, whether they are satisfied with Result Dissatisfied cultural life and as a response neither satisfaction nor dissatisfaction of respondents (Mean score=3.38) was received. On an average 5% respondents (N=18) have shown dissatisfaction with cultural life while 36.67% respondents were found satisfied with their cultural life. Table 4.5: Satisfaction with Cultural Life
Response N Percentage Highly Dissatisfied 18 5.00 Dissatisfied 0 0.00 Neutral 210 58.33 Satisfied 90 25.00 Chart 4.3: Satisfaction with Water Quality Highly Satisfied 42 11.67 4.4 Satisfaction with Leisure Life Total 360 100 Majority of respondents (N=292, Percentage=81.11) are neither satisfied nor dissatisfied with their leisure life. Mean Score 3.38 Approximately 15% respondents are satisfied while Result Neutral according to 4% respondents they are dissatisfied with
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 29 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Economic Impacts of Tourism Upon the Quality of Life of Residents in all types of tourism related jobs followed by some jobs (N=60, Percentage=16.67) and a little jobs (N=56, Percentage=15.56). 5.56% respondents (N=20) are having lots of jobs related to tourism while 5% respondents (N=18) are not involved in any tourism related jobs The first objective of research was to identify the economic impact of tourism on quality of life of respondents. To serve this objective, respondents were requested to share their level of agreement for various statements. The degree of agreement towards statements was set from 1 to 5 (5 denotes the strongly agree, whereas, 1 is the strongly disagree). It has been observed that respondents are Chart 4.5: Satisfaction with Cultural Life strongly agree with the statements that Real estate prices in the community have increased because of tourism, 4.6 Satisfaction with Social Status the benefits of tourism to the community outweigh its Majority of respondents (N=157, Percentage=43.61) are costs, Tourism creates employment opportunities for satisfied with social status and 6.67% respondents (N=24) residents in the community and The cost of living in are highly satisfied. 11.39% respondents (N=41) are the community has increased because of tourism. The neither satisfied nor dissatisfied while 36.67% respondents residents of Anand are agreed to points that Tourism (N=132) are highly dissatisfied with the social status. The brings important economic benefits to the residents of average score (2.82) has projected neutral satisfaction of the community, Tourism brings more investment to respondents. the community’s economy, Tourism helps National Government generate foreign exchange earnings, Table 4.6: Satisfaction with Social Status Tourism generates tax revenues for Local Governments, Tourism helps improve the economic situation for many Response N Percentage residents in this community, Local business benefits Highly Dissatisfied 132 36.67 the most from tourists and The prices of many goods Dissatisfied 6 1.67 and services in the community have increased because of tourism. Respondents showed disagreement with Neutral 41 11.39 the statement that one of the most important aspects of Satisfied 157 43.61 tourism is that it creates a variety of jobs for the residents Highly Satisfied 24 6.67 in the community. In conclusion it can be inferred that tourism has significant impact on economic life aspects Total 360 100 of residents of Anand. If we talk about positive aspects Mean Score 2.82 the tourism has increased employment opportunities, Result Neutral economic benefits, tax, foreign exchange earnings, investment opportunities, local business and economic situation but on the counter side as a negative the tourism has increased prices of goods, cost of living, and real estate prices. It is also a negative impact on quality of life of respondents that instead of creation more employment opportunities the residents are not getting desired jobs due to the increment in tourism. To measure socio cultural impact of tourism on quality of life of respondents were requested to share their level of agreement for various statements. The degree of agreement towards statements was set from 1 to 5 (5 denotes the strongly agree, whereas, 1 is the strongly disagree). The residents of Anand are strongly agreed that Chart 4.6: Satisfaction with Social Status Tourism has increased residents’ pride in the local culture in the community, but they are agreed to the statements Findings that Tourism has resulted in unpleasantly overcrowded The findings of the study are presented hereunder:- parks for local residents, Because of tourism, roads and other local services are well maintained, Tourism helps It has been observed that Maximum number of keep culture alive and helps maintain the ethnic identity respondents (N=206, Percentage=57.22) are involved of the local residents, Meeting tourists from all over the
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 30 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Economic Impacts of Tourism Upon the Quality of Life of Residents world is definitely a life enriching experience, The cultural satisfied with health, air quality and community safety & exchange between residents and tourists is valuable for security. With rest of the factors they are neither satisfied the residents, The cultural exchange between residents nor dissatisfied. As per the hypotheses results Residents’ and tourists is pleasant for the residents, and I would life satisfaction in general is a positive function of their like to meet tourists from as many countries as possible perceptions of the benefits of the economic impact of in order to learn about their cultures. Respondents are tourism, Residents’ life satisfaction in general is a positive disagreed to the points that during the peak tourist function of their perceptions of the benefits of the socio- season, I find it harder to get tickets for the theatre, movies, cultural impact of tourism and Respondents having all concerts, or athletic events, and Tourism contributes tourism related jobs are more satisfied with Health & social problems such as crime, drug abuse, prostitution, Safety Conditions in comparison to those who are not and so forth in the community In a summary it can be fully involved in tourism related jobs. observed that tourism has both positive and negative impact on socio cultural life of residents’ of Anand. As a Recommendations positive impact the tourism has given an opportunity of Tourism can improve the quality of life in an area cultural exchange with tourists and it is also helping them by increasing the number of attractions, recreational in maintain their ethnic identity. Tourism has increased opportunities, and services. Tourism offers resident’s residents’ pride in the local culture in the community and opportunities to meet interesting people, make friendships, because of tourism roads and other local services are well learn about the world, and expose themselves to new maintained. If we focus on negative aspects the tourism perspectives. Experiencing different cultural practices has increased crowd in public places, and it is not giving enriches experiences, broadens horizons, and increases recreational opportunities to local residents. insight and appreciation for different approaches to To measure the Respondents Satisfaction with Living living. Often, dwindling interest in host cultures is revived Conditions, they were asked to indicate their level of by reawakening cultural heritage as part of tourism satisfaction with living conditions on five point scale development, which increases demand for historical starting from highly satisfied (5) highly dissatisfied (1). and cultural exhibits. This interest by tourists in local Majority of respondents are dissatisfied with income culture and history provides opportunities to support of current job, economic security of job, pay and fringe preservation of historical artifacts and architecture. benefits, real estate taxes, and cost of living in community. References Respondents are neither satisfied nor dissatisfied with MICHAEL, V.P. “Research methodology in management” family income, cost of basic necessities, the conditions Himalayan Publishing house, Bombay, 1985,p.No.107 of the community environment, Community Services, KOTHARI, C.R. “Research Methodology –“Methods and Community facilities, Community People, Spare Time techniques” Wishwa Prakashan, New Delhi, 1997,p.18 and leisure time. Residents are satisfied with the influx Nayar K Rajasekharan and Mohandas K - “A Perilous Pilgrimage” of tourists from all over the world into community. The - Economic and Political Weekly, Thiruvananthapuram, overall average score is received 2.77 which show that Vol 50, Issue 20, 2015 residents of Anand are neither satisfied nor dissatisfied Prospects and Problems of Tourism; Geography of Tourism in with living conditions. India ; MODULE - 10-B ; assessed on 10/02/2020 As far as residents’ satisfaction with health & safety conditions is concerned, the majority of residents are
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 31 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020, pp. 47-53
Tour Operators and World Heritage Sites: Do they have Shared Interests?
Monisha Juneja & Malini Singh
Delhi the capital city of India, has many heritage sites out of which three are featured on the UNSECO’s World Heritage Sites list. The popularity of these three world heritage sites can be seen based on ranking published by the Indian Tourism Statistics. The tour operators play an important role in making these sites popular among the tourists. The government of India is also keen on improving the basic infrastructure and making them tourist friendly. For this purpose they have introduced various schemes like Adopt a Monument and Iconic Tourist Sites. The world heritage sites are being prominently used in the promotional material of the tour operators The role of the tour guides has also been recognized in order to make the tourist experience memorable. Factor analysis has identified 4 attributes which have been highlighted. They are clear descriptors and labels; paved ramps and pathways; places for resting and sitting down; parking facility around the site. These areas should be incorporated well in the redevelopment schemes of the world heritage sites by the Government of India. This study has shown a twofold effect. In order to keep monetary gains flowing in the tour operators must also take initiative in guiding and helping out with the development of tourism attractions and activities. Keywords: World Heritage Sites, Delhi, History, Tour Operator, Factor Analysis
Introduction They are in a position to collect feedback of the destination Delhi the capital city of India, has many heritage sites visited (Cochrane and Font, 2005). The aim of the study out of which three are featured on the UNSECO’s is firstly to identify the promotional material used by World Heritage Sites list. The sites along with the year tour operators which includes the world heritage site. of inscription are: The Humayun’s Tomb - 1993, Qutab Secondly to learn ways in which the tour operators Minar and its monuments -1993 and The Red Fort are communicating the history of the world heritage Complex - 2007. These sites have also been ranked in the sites. Thirdly, to highlight the attributes which affects top 10 sites visited by both domestic and international the tourists visiting the world heritage sites from tour tourist in 2017-18 (Indian Tourism Statistics, 2018). In operator’s perspective. India tourists appreciate the natural and cultural heritage UNESCO World Heritage Sites but are disappointed by the tourist infrastructure. Lack of tourist infrastructure like poor hygiene, lack of dustbins, UNESCO has defined heritage as an object, tangible ill trained guides and insufficient signage are issues or intangible, natural or manmade, which has been identified by Dwivedi (2009). inherited, not created by present generation. They are further classified into 3 groups - To look into this matter the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India has come up with a few initiatives. 1. Natural Heritage- as defined by the world heritage One such scheme is called “Adopt a Heritage” which convection, “outstanding physical, biological and is a project to make tourist friendly infrastructure in geological feature, habitats of threatened plants and around the site. Another one is Iconic Tourist Sites or animal species and areas of value on scientific Development project which would include the overall or aesthetic grounds of from point of view of maintenance and promotion of the 17 shortlisted heritage conservation.” sites to bring them up to world standards. (Annual Report 2. Cultural Heritage – “Monuments, groups of buildings 2018-19) or sites of historical, aesthetic, archaeological This study is looking at the perspective of the tour scientific, ethnological or anthropological value” as operators as they are in close conformity to the tourists. given by the world heritage convection
Monisha Juneja Research Scholar, Amity University, Noida, U. P. Dr. Malini Singh Associate Professor, Amity School of Hospitality, Amity University, Noida, U. P.
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 32 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Tour Operators and World Heritage Sites: Do They have Shared Interests? 3. Mixed Heritage- A combination of natural and development of architecture. It is a unique evidence cultural heritage (UNESCO, 2019) of cultural tradition and an outstanding example of The protection of world heritage sites came architecture. (UNESCO,2019) into effect on 16th November 1972 in the general 3. The Qutab Minar and its Monuments- Situated in the conference of UNESCO. The purpose was to area of Mehrauli, in South Delhi, the Qutab Minar preserving the cultural heritage and conserving and its monuments include the Alai-Darwaza Gate, natural heritage for the future generations. The two mosques, the Iron Pillar of Delhi, the Tomb main aim is to identify and protect the natural of Imam Zamin, the Tomb of Iltutmish and Major and cultural heritage sites. The UNESCO’s world Smith’s Cupola. Inscribed in 1993 on the UNESCO’s heritage sites list includes all the sites which have world heritage list. Illustrating an outstanding been recognized for universal importance and example of building architecture which shows the fulfils any of the ten criteria mentioned. The world significant stages of human history (UNESCO,2019). heritage site committee has a standard setting role Government of India Schemes for World Heritage of checking the heritage sites every 2 years to see it is Sites keeping up with the preservation and conservation work (UNESCO, 2019). Adopt a Heritage - India The Indian government has adopted the scheme World Heritage Sites in Delhi from Scotland which gets the people involved in the The UNESCO’s World Heritage list has a total of 1121 conservation and preservation of the heritage sites. The sites. Out of this 38 are listed in India, 30 are grouped Archaeological Survey of India had identified Lucknow under cultural sites, 7 as natural sites and mixed category circle for the pilot study stating that it has more than 600 has 1 site (UNESCO, 2019). All these 38 sites are spread buildings which require immediate attention. A similar across India, while 3 of the cultural sites are concentrated practice was carried out by Archaeological Survey of in a relatively small area of Delhi. India in Goa which gave remarkable benefits to Arc of The popularity of these three world heritage sites can be Conception, a protected building near Basilica of Bom seen looking at the ranking of these sites based on the Jesus. On World Tourism Day, 27th September 2017 The number of international and domestic tourist visiting President of India launched the Incredible India 2.0 them in 2017-18, table 1 shows this ranking. campaign: ‘Adopt a Heritage’ Project. The initiative was taken up by the Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Culture Table 1: Ranking based on number of tourist visiting and Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The project world heritage sites of Delhi was introduced for the development of tourist friendly destinations in a systematic and planned manner (Adopt World Heritage Foreign Tourist Domestic Tourist Site of Delhi Ranking Ranking a Monument Guidelines, 2019). ‘Incredible India’ promotional campaign which was Doesn’t rank in top Humayun’s Tomb 5th started in 2003 has helped to place India on the 26th position 10 list for international tourist arrivals (Indian Tourism Statistics, Red Fort Complex 7th 3rd 2018). To further improve the ranking the government of India has thought of this concept by developing the Qutab Minar 3rd 4th amenities to world class standards in order to enhance the A brief about the World Heritage Sites of Delhi: tourist experience. The government has roped in private 1. Humayun’s Tomb - Is one of the first garden tomb players both corporate and individuals to take an active of Mughal architecture in India. Built in AD 1570 part in this project. These would be called as ‘Monument by both Persian and Indian workers. In 1993 it was Mitras’, who would operate and maintain these sites. inscribed in the world heritage list and was selected Their performance would be reviewed over a period of as it fulfilled two of the ten criteria. It displays an 5 years. The ‘Monument Mitras’ would be bidding for important interchange of human values depicted in the heritage sites which they would like to maintain. The architecture and is an excellent example of a type of heritage sites have been divided into 3 categories and building (UNESCO, 2019). are colour coded. Green, Blue and Orange based on the footfalls and visibility. Higher weight age has been given 2. The Red Fort Complex- It was inscribed in 2007, th to blue and orange categories as these are unpopular Shah Jahan built this is the 17 century. The structure among the tourist (Adopt a Monument Guidelines, 2019). is made of red sand stone. The complex includes For tourists to have a positive experience at the site, the older fort of Salimgarh built by Islam Shah Suri infrastructure is the vital. The infrastructure includes (Red Fort Delhi). The site was selected as it fulfils the amenities and facilities at the site. According to the three criteria of UNESCO. The site showcases the Adopt a Heritage guidelines amenities at the sites have important interchange of human values depicted in been divided into two broad groups- Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 33 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Tour Operators and World Heritage Sites: Do They have Shared Interests? i) Basic Amenities - which are necessary and important Advanced surveillance system (Like PTZ based 3. for any heritage site. CCTV cameras) Table No. 2: List of Basic and Inter Alia Amenities 4. Digital Interactive Kiosk, Digital (LED) screening 5. Light and Sound Shows with regular cultural shows Basic Basic Amenities S.No. S.No. Amenities (Inter Alia) 6. Battery-operated vehicles Public conveniences Advanced tourist flow management system linked Public 7. 1. 1. of international with carrying capacity of the monuments conveniences standard Ease of Clean drinking Iconic Tourist Sites 2. 2. Access water facilities Another initiative was announced by the Ministry of Swachh Monument Tourism, where 17 sites have been identified which Aesthetics (Cleanliness of and would be developed to world class standard. This scheme 3. 3. the monument, cleanliness of is not only limited to the site itself but is looking at the including complete site overall development of the entire destination. This would polythene ban) include infrastructure, accommodation, accessibility and Barrier Free connectivity. Ministry of Tourism would be the nodal Monuments/ agency other ministries would be a part of this initiative. Accessibility for All: The three world heritage sites of Delhi are also part of differently-abled 4. Illumination 4. friendly toilets, this list. (17 sites in 12 clusters being developed as Iconic ramps, wheelchair Tourism Sites: Shri Prahlad Singh Patel , 2019). facility, Braille signage, monument Tour Operator models Devaraja and Deepak (2018) defined the tour operators Backlit Information and as “an organization or company which buys individual 5. 5. signage Directional Signage travel components, separately from their suppliers and 6. Wi-Fi combines them into a package tour, which is sold with their own price tag to the public directly or through App based middlemen”. Alternative name for the tour operators is Multi lingual Audio-Guide the manufactures of tourism products. Cloak room, Tour operators are intermediaries which bridge the gap shoe-racks/ between the buyers and sellers (Cooper, 1998). They covers, organise all the aspects of the tour and sell them to the 7. washing tourist in a single package (Page and Connell, 2006). 8. facility etc. Tour operators come in close contact to a large number 9. Point of Sale of tourists as they provide many tourism services which Terminal they buy in bulk and then sell it to the tourist in a more (PoS) attractive way (Marin-Pantelescu et al, 2019). Tourists machines at are able get a customised trip without taking tension. It the Ticketing Counters proves to be time and money saving as the tourists tend to promote to get good deal (Budeanu, 2005). cashless Literature Review transactions An extraordinary growth can be seen at the heritage Canteen (with sites as they are attracting more tourists, who want to souvenir shop 10. promoting local art experience something new (Csapo, 2012). The inputs and craftsmanship) tourists get from their social life attracts them to explore something different and what is trending (Huh, 2002). ii) Advance Amenities – which would be constructed World Heritage Sites logo acts as a brand and provides looking at the footfalls and financial availability. a certificate of quality to tourists who want to visit a new Table No. 2: List of Advance Amenities heritage site (Petr, 2009). S.No. Advance Amenities According to Shackley (1998) UNESCO Heritage Site tag helps to make the site more visible. It establishes a 1. Cafeteria symbolic value at both the national and international Facilitation of night visits to monuments under 2. level along with that Smith (2002) agrees that it becomes adaptive use within permissible guidelines of ASI well known to the tourists. The heritage status also makes Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 34 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Tour Operators and World Heritage Sites: Do They have Shared Interests? the tourists want to visit that destination (Poria, Reichel, Research Objectives & Cohen, 2011). Ryan and Silvanto (2009) indicated that 1. To identify the promotional material used by tour the WHS designation has shifted from preservation to operators which includes the world heritage site. attracting tourist to such sites. The world heritage tag plays an important role in selecting the destination as 2. To learn ways in which the tour operators are well. communicating the history of the world heritage sites. While promoting the heritage site the tourist facilities should also be managed well (Henderson, 2009). Su and 3. To highlight the attribute affecting the tourists Lin (2014, pg 33) upon examining the effect of heritage visiting the world heritage sites from the tour sites on inbound tourism from 2006-2009 and data operator’s perspective. obtained from 66 countries, it was found that “there exists Research Methodology a positive relationship between having such heritage sites and tourist numbers”. Descriptive research design has been used which helps to describe the characteristics of a particular group under According to Hassan, A., & Iankova, K. (2012) there study. The questionnaire was prepared for the tour are different areas which need to be viewed to find out operators functioning in Delhi. The target population the gap between the perception and expectation of the for the study are all the domestic tour operators who are tourist visiting the heritage sites. The areas shortlisted registered and listed on the Delhi government website. by them were – hygiene and sanitation, places of resting, The total number of registered domestic tour operators in food and drinking outlets, facilities for differently-abled December 2019 was 176. The study used non – probability and signage in different languages. Another study sample design to collect data from the sample. understanding the tourist experience at the heritage sites Quota sampling method was used to collect the data. highlighted that audio visual aids, on sight engagement Delhi after 2012 has been divided into 11 districts. For this and heritage preservation are important influencing study these districts have been distributed into 5 zones factors (Kempiak et all, 2017). For the tourist to be shown in table no. 4. satisfied, factors such as i)Food facility ; ii)Accessibility to the site; iii)Surrounding; iv) Rates of services were Table No. 4: Zone wise distribution of Districts identified by a study conducted exclusively at Red Fort Complex which has helped to point out the service gaps S.No. Zone Districts Included in the tourist expectations and experience (Md. Danish & 1. North Delhi North Delhi, North West Delhi Chakraborty, 2019). 2. South Delhi South Delhi and South east Delhi As the tour operators are in close conformity to the 3. West Delhi West Delhi and South west Delhi tourist they are able to identify the negative feedback of North East Delhi, Shahdara and East the destination visited. The tour operators can help the 4. East Delhi Delhi tourist plan their trip better. The facilities and services which would be required can be best implemented by the 5. Central Delhi New Delhi and Central Delhi tour operator (Cochrane and Font, 2005). Tour operators Total 176 tour operators were been divided into the 5 play a vital role in presenting a destination to the tourist zones. For quota sampling, percentage of tour operators and influencing the quality of their visit, thereby affecting representing each zone was taken out. The sample size of the tourist experience (Dahles, 2002). 100 was collected in the same percentage as presented by each zone. Need of the study Table 5 : Distribution of Tour Operators Zone Wise Less literature is available which links the tourists likes and dislikes experienced at the site from the perspective Number of the tour operator. As the tour operator can be a good Number of Percentage of tour link in communicating the issues faced by tourists as S.No. Zone tour operators (Quota operators – – Population Sampling) they come in close contact with them. Mostly tourism Sample Size stakeholders are mainly focusing on the monetary 1. North Delhi 05 3% 3 benefits from tourism activities (Devaraja and Deepak, 2018).The tour operators should understand everything 2. South Delhi 61 34% 34 comes in a twofold effect. In order to gain monetarily the 3. West Delhi 24 14% 14 tour operators must also take initiative in guiding the development of tourism attractions and activities. This 4. East Delhi 49 28% 28 study plans to showcase a twofold effect for the tour 5. Central Delhi 37 21% 21 operators which has not yet been provided by previous Total 176 100 researches.
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 35 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Tour Operators and World Heritage Sites: Do They have Shared Interests? All the respondents were contacted by email followed to connect with the history and 39 percent stated “No as by telephone call. Few were personally visited at their an answer. office. A structured questionnaire was used to collect the information which was self administrated by the respondent. Data from 100 respondents was recorded out which 94 were usable questionnaires. The questionnaire was divided into two sections. The first section asked questions relating to the general prolife of the tour operators. This included questions about the services they offered, how they promote their tour packages and type of accommodation they provide the tourists. Closed ended questions were used with the multiple choices. Second section of the questionnaire had three closed ended questions. The first question asked how the world heritage sites was used in the promotional material In Fig. 3, 57 percent of the respondents opted for “yes” which had multiple options. The second question asked that respondents made tourist experience food inspire by statements relating to the promotion of Delhi heritage the world heritage sites and 43 percent said “No”. When throughout the tour which was dichotomous. The third asked about organising live shows and audio visual question was to rate the world heritage sites on 10 presentation related to world heritage sites, 87 percent attributes on a 5 point Likert scale. It was coded as 1 being said “Yes” and 13 percent of the respondents said “ No”. “Very Poor”, 2 being “Poor”, 3 being “ Fair”, 4 being Souvenir shopping inspired by the world heritage sites “Good” , 5 being “Excellent”. was planned by 81 percent of the respondents and 19 Data Analysis percent said “ No” such planning was done. For the fulfilment of the research objectives of this study the second section of questionnaire has been analysed. The first objective was to identify the promotional material used by tour operators to promote the world heritage site. The bar chart in Fig.1 illustrates that out of the total usable questionnaires, 81 percent of respondents used websites and 58 percent used printed brochures to advertise the world heritage sites. Use of social media was 40 percent. The advertisement in print was done by 34 percent of the respondents and online was opted by 16 percent. The third objective has used studied using Varimax rotation matrix of Factor Analysis. To test the consistency and reliability of the data all the variables were tested using the Cronbach’s Alpha Coefficient which came out to be 0.719. Table No.6 : Reliability Analysis
Reliability Statistics
Cronbach’s Alpha Number of Items For the analysis of the second objective, the bar chart in 0.719 10 Fig. 2 and Fig.3 has been used. The question related to the ways in which the tour operator is communicating Next the KMO (Kaiser-Meyer-Olikn) statistics came out the history of the world heritage sites. 92 percent of the to be 0.559. Barlett’s test of sphericity tests the hypothesis respondents said “Yes” that the tour leader announced that the correlation matrix is an identity matrix and all the world heritage sites before visiting them and 8 percent the variables are unrelated. The Chi-square came out to said “No” they didn’t announce. While 61 percent said be 262.581 with degree of freedom as 45. The value is “Yes” that the tour guide narrated the story for the tourist significant at 95% Confidence.
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 36 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Tour Operators and World Heritage Sites: Do They have Shared Interests? Table No. 7: Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin an Barltt’s Test for Paved ramps and pathways 1.000 0.668 Sphercity Cleanliness of the site premises 1.000 0.653 Kaiser- Meyer-Olkin Measure of Sampling 0.559 Dustbins and washrooms 1.000 0.674 Adequacy Barlett’s Test of Sphercity Approx. Chi Square 262.581 Clean drinking water 1.000 0.472 Df 45 Internet signal at site premises 1.000 0.368 sig. .000 Extraction Method : Principal Component Analysis. The common variance shared by factors with given Out of the entire 10 attributes, 4 attributes having variables is indicated by communalities. Higher significant factor loading under the 3 factor which have communality represents that larger amounts of variance been selected. For this study factor loading ranges from has been extracted by Factor Analysis. The table shows 0.906 to 0.800 have been identified which are displayed the communalities of the variables. in the Table No. 9. Factor 1 has a total variance of 29.139 percent under the Principal Component Analysis of Table No. 8: Communalities of Variables extraction method with Varimax Rotation method converged in 6 iterations. It contains two attributes, S.No. Attributes Initial Extraction explaining 29.139 percent variance and an Eigen value of Parking facility around the site 1.000 0.823 2.914 . It includes clear descriptors and labels and paved Clear internal directional signs 1.000 0.543 ramps and pathways. Clear descriptors and labels 1.000 0.728 Factor 2 contains one attribute explaining 17.337 percent Audio guides in preferred variance and an Eigen value of 1.734. Places for resting 1.000 0.435 language and sitting down is part of this factor. Places for resting and sitting Factor 3 also contains one attribute explaining 14.126 1.000 0.695 down percent variance and an Eigen value of 1.413. Parking facility around the site falls under factor 3.
Table No. 9: Factor Analysis of attributes
Initial Eigen Value Attributes Factor Loading % of Cumulative Total Variance % Clear descriptors and labels 0.841 Factor 1 2.914 29.139 29.139 Paved ramps and pathways 0.800 Places for resting and sitting down 0.802 Factor 2 1.734 17.337 46.476 Parking facility around the site 0.906 Factor 3 1.413 14.126 60.603
Conclusion stories related to site history (Weiler and Black, 2015). For the identification of the promotional material used According to Kempiak et all (2017) tourist experience is to promote the world heritage site. It was found that further enhanced by on sight engagement which can be maximum number of respondents used their own website done well by the tour guides. followed by printed brochures. The visibility of the world Factor analysis method was used to highlight the heritage sites is quite prominent while promoting tour attributes affecting the tourists visiting the world heritage package to the tourists. sites from the tour operator’s perspective. This study has The ways in which the tour operators are communicating been able to identify four attributes falling under three the heritage of the world heritage sites is also being looked factors. Clear descriptors and labels; Paved ramps and at as value additions in the tourist’s trip. Only 61 percent pathways has been grouped under factor 1. Places for of the tour operators said that the tour guide narrated resting and sitting down is under factor 2 and factor 3 the story for the tourist to connect with the history. comprises of parking facility around the site. Study by According to Dahles (2002) the role of the tour guide is Hassan & Iankova (2012) based on tourist experience had give information and explanation which influences the mentioned the similar areas of concern like places to rest tourist experience. The tour guides should strive for make and signages in different languages. A study carried out a memorable tourist experience by narrating interesting at the Red Fort Complex by Md. Danish & Chakraborty
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 37 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Tour Operators and World Heritage Sites: Do They have Shared Interests? (2019) based on tourists feedback also pointed out issues Contemporary Hospitality Management,21(2), 226-232, relating to accessibility to the site. This includes the doi: 10.1108/09596110910935714 parking facility around the site premises and ramps and India Tourism Statistics (2018). Government of India, Ministry pathways; the resting places inside the site premises. This of Tourism. Marketing Research Division. makes it clear that that the tourists as well as the tour Hassan, A., & Iankova, K. (2012). Strategies and challenges operators are pointing out the same areas which should of tourist facilities management in the world heritage be incorporated in the redevelopment schemes of the site: Case of the Maritime Greenwich, London. Tourism Analysis, 17(6), 775-789. world heritage sites by the Government of India. Henderson, J. C. (2009). The meanings, marketing, and This study has showcased a twofold effect. The world management of heritage tourism in Southeast Asia. In heritage sites are being prominently used in the Cultural heritage and tourism in the developing world— a promotional material of the tour operators. Similarly the regional perspective. london: Routledge. tour operator have been able to identify attributes which Huh, J. (2002)Tourist Satisfaction With Cultural / Heritage are areas of focus at the world heritage sites. In order to Sites: The Virginia Historic Triangle keep monetary gains flowing in the tour operators must Kempiak, J., Hollywood, L., Bolan, P. & McMahon-Beattie,U. also take initiative in guiding and helping out with the (2017). The heritage tourist: an understanding of the visitor development of tourism attractions and activities. experience at heritage attractions, International Journal of Heritage Studies, 23:4, 375-392, DOI: 10.1080/ 13527258. 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Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 38 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020, pp. 54-58
Impact of Krishna Pushkaralu on Developing New Tourist Destinations
P. Sravan Kumar & Rajshree Bhargava
Krishna Pushkaralu is a festival of river Krishna, occurring once in 12 years. The Pushkaram is observed for 12 days from entry of Jupiter into Virgo (KanyaRaasi). It is an age old custom in Southern states of India. This year, the festival started on 12th August and concluded on 23rd August. The two Telugu states of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh have invested several hundred crores in creating the required infrastructure and amenities and have conducted them as state festivals. It is estimated that about 500 million pilgrims took part, with a symbolic bath in the river during this period. About 225 pushkar (bathing) ghats have been established along the river bank, with all supplementary facilities. The Pushkaram falls in the second category of Tradition and Culture based tourism, in the theory of four types of niche tourism, as espoused by Marina Novelli of the University of Brighton. Niche tourism refers to how a specific tourism product can be tailored to meet the needs of a particular audience/market segment. Locations with specific niche products are able to establish and position themselves, as niche tourism destinations. The AP government developed 125 ghats and improved 150 temples with an investment of Rs. 1,000 crore. The Government of Telangana had invested Rs.825 crore and developed 94 bathing ghats. The aim of the study is to understand whether the Krishna Pushkaram has a significant impact on creating new tourism destinations. To study in detail at least one location where the Krishna Pushkaram was conducted and identify emergence of a new tourism destination. Keywords: Niche Tourism, Pushkaram, Krishna, Ghat
Introduction Types of niche tourism The ‘power of invention’ makes tourists imagine Type 1 – Special interest Type 2 – Traditional and themselves both inside and outside the realms and tourism culture based tourism exotic contexts. From this perspective, niche tourism Photographic tourism Tribal tourism (cannibal) is a package of imagination, preferences and practices, Cultural heritage tourism – Geo tourism properly marketed. For the tourist, it legitimizes the most ‘being, not looking’ intimate and human proclivities, and for the scholar, it Tourism in peripheral regions provides yet another layer of investigation. It is in this Youth tourism – discovering the hidden background that there is a need to extend the debate to treasures explore the further nuances of special interest tourism Dark tourism Research tourism and niche tourism, to understand how its coverage gets Type 4 – Activity based Geneology tourism both broadened and deepened. tourism Niche Tourism Gastronomy tourism Small ship cruising Niche tourism refers to how a specific tourism product Transport tourism Sports tourism Type 3 – Future of niche can be tailored to meet the needs of a particular audience/ Wildlife tourism market segment. It is a means by which destinations can tourism focus their offerings to differentiate their tourism products Space tourism Volunteer tourism and compete in an increasingly competitive and cluttered Virtual tourism Adventure tourism tourism environment (Sharpley and Telfer, 2002). Ethical tourism
P. Sravan Kumar Excellence Hospitality Projects Pvt Ltd, Hyderabad Rajshree Bhargava Assistant Professor, Chandigarh University, Gharuan, Chandigarh
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 39 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Impact of Krishna Pushkaralu on Developing New Tourist Destinations Review of Literature develops: exploration, involvement, development, consolidation, stagnation and ending with either Roots of Niche Tourism rejuvenation or decline. Pushkaram as a tourism product The concept of special interest tourism (SIT) emerged goes through this life cycle rapidly, and ends mostly during the 1980s and can be seen as a predecessor of with decline instead of rejuvenation. From this, it can ‘Niche Tourism’, as per Read (1980), Hall and Weiler be deduced that Pushkaram is surely a niche tourism (1992). Stebbins (1982), points out that special interest product, perhaps with a short life cycle. tourism is seen as pursuing a ‘relatively short-lived pleasurable activity requiring little or no training to enjoy Contribution of Pushkaram to niche tourism it’. This argument and debate seems to be fitting well As early as 1988, festival tourism was termed as ‘an in case of Pushkaram tourism. Hall and Weller (1992, emerging giant’ (Getz and Frisby, 1988). Festivals and P.5) propose that special ‘interest tourism occurs when events are seen to extend the tourist season, encourage travelers’ motivation and decision making are primarily investment, generate revenue and boost the local determined by a particular special interest’. There are economy (Getz, 2007, p.140). An event’s ‘drawing power’, further definitions (Swarbrooke and Horner, 1999, Derrett, or ‘attractiveness’ can be measured by the numbers of 2001) say that special interest tourism is: ‘motivated by a tourists. Often, mega events can be the key motivator to desire to engage in new or existing interests in a novel visit the destination, like the Krishna Pushkaram, which or familiar location’. Poon summarized stating “the has attracted in excess of 45 million people in a span of 12 economics of the new tourism is very different from the days. Festivals and events act as ‘key differentiator’ and old – profitability no longer rests solely on economies give ‘life’ to an otherwise non-descript site. of scale and the exploitation of mass undifferentiated markets” (Poon, 1989, in Lew, 2009, p.411). The case for developing new tourist destinations The low annual foreign tourist growth rate is a pointer to Methodology the immediate need to do act affirmatively, to bring in an The present study based on descriptive method of overall improvement. Some pointers in this direction are research. The data was collected through both primary as follows: and secondary sources. In order to collect primary data, a pre tested questionnaire was prepared. The questionnaire FICCI-EY was designed to know about the perceptions of population A 2015 report by FICCI-EY highlights the need for towards Pushkaram including general information developing new tourist destinations in India. To like from where did the respondents were heard about effectively overcome the challenge of slow growth of Pushkaram, reason for visiting, experience,mode of foreign tourists, the report exhorted promotion of hitherto transportation and accommodation used during the unexplored locations such as Majuli islands, the largest festival. The target population for study was domestic. group of islands of sub continent in Assam, Auroville A survey was conducted by sending an objective of Pondicherry, and the desert camps of Rajasthan. questionnaire to a judgmental-cum-convenience sample It also identified for further development nine tourist size of 200 adults.A total of 154 responses were considered destinations comprising of Chitrakoot, Diu, Dudhwa after eliminating those who did not participate and national park, Elephanta Caves, Hampi, Lahaul&Spit, incomplete. Data collected through questionnaire was Rann of Kutch, Sunderbans delta and Gurez for further analyzed by percentage method. promotion. The source for collecting secondary data are from Government of India publications of Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India. A draft national tourism policy was brought out by the Many websites were searched during the study. The government in 2015, with a focus on promoting India subject material was collected through research articles, as ‘Must experience’ and ‘Must revisit’. The policy newspapers and magazines etc. clearly aims at increasing the ‘tourism products’ being The aim of the study is to understand whether the offered, and a well defined road map to achieve. It gives Krishna Pushkaram has a significant impact on creating something to everyone-and mentions spirituality circuits new cultural & religious tourism destinations based on Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism. The Findings policy aims at offering everything between spirituality and honey mooning for tourists. Pushkaram as niche tourism product and application of Butler’s life cycle model Pushkaram and its relationship with people The arguments and debates on special interest tourism Pushkaram (singular term since it is an event) is also (SIT), and niche tourism, apply to Pushkaram, and it known as Pushkaralu (plural term since it is held for 12 passes on all the parameters. Butler has described of the days). It is an Indian festival dedicated to worshipping of six stages that a destination would go through as tourism rivers. It is a Hindu tradition, has a mythological backing, Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 40 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Impact of Krishna Pushkaralu on Developing New Tourist Destinations believed to be from a medieval Hindu period, and is as follows: known to be observed for several centuries now. It is celebrated mostly at shrines, on the banks of 12 major Andhra Pradesh Telangana sacred rivers. The observance is mainly in the form of Overall expenditure 1,000 crore 825 crore ancestor worship, (paying respect to the departed souls), Krishna, Guntur, Mahbubnagar, Districts covered spiritual discourses, devotional music and prayers, and Kurnool Nalgonda cultural programs on the lines of Hindu mythological No. of bathing ghats 125 94 stories, Indian music and dance forms. built Each of the 12 sacred rivers is associated with a zodiac No. of temples 150 72 sign, and the Pushkaralu is held based on the association renovated / uplifted of the river with Jupiter is in at the time. Due to regional No. of pilgrims 2.5 crore 2.0 crore variations, some zodiac signs are associated with participated multiple rivers It is observed for a period of 12 days from the time of entry of Jupiter into Virgo (KanyaRaasi). This Both the governments took up and successfully executed year, the Krishna pushkaralu started on 12th August and following additional and ancillary responsibilities: concluded on 23rd August. Maintenance of law and order It is believed that due to a boon, a sage lives in each of the rivers for a year. Pushkaram is a Sanskrit word of two Crowd management parts – Push; for pushti, meaning energy, and kara means Laying of roads and creating vehicular access to bathing the doer. It means that the river gets energized during ghats this period. Establishing and managing health camps including first aid The rivers associated with Pushkaralu are- and emergency medicare Rashi Corresponding Setting up and maintaining public cloak rooms, shelters and (Indian western zodiac Rivers toilets zodiac sign sign Providing food and catering arrangements including 1 Mesha Aries Ganga (Ganges) encouraging philanthropists 2 Vrishabha Taurus Narmada Giving wide and positive publicity 3 Mithuna Gemini Saraswati 4 Karka Cancer Yamuna Motivators for governments to host Krishna Pushkaralu 5 Simha Leo Godavari Providing infrastructure and civic amenities as part of 6 Kanya Virgo Krishna social responsibility 7 Tula Libra Kaveri Protecting law and order and effective crowd management Bhima in Maharashtra, Earn positive public image Karnataka and 8 Vrischika Scorpio Telangana. In Large scale infrastructure development within a short Tamilnadu, at river span of time Tamraparni Attracting private investments and employment Tapti, also known generation in Assam as 9 Dhanus Sagitarius PushkaraVahini, The case of Pushkaram as a growth engine for tourist celebrated on banks of destination development Brahmaputra A test of running any new destination through a set of 10 Makara Capricorn Tungabhadra five parameters will tell us whether it can be a sustainable 11 Kumbha Aquarius Sindhu (Indus) tourism destination or not. This is as follows:
12 Meena Pisces Pranahita (Parineeta) One Environmental – good climate, nice scenery etc., A Pushkaram is to South India on the lines of what is Kumbh Mela to Pushkaram, by its very nature, happens on a river the northern India. bank, when the river is flowing. By default, most river banks, especially in hinterlands, offer a nice Krishna Pushkaram 2016: Role of government visual imagery and presence of water will offer cooler climate, even during warm seasons. After Godavari pushkaralu of 2015, this is the second Socio economic – accessibility, accommodation, pushkaralu for Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. They Two amenities, ancillary services have celebrated this as state festival. Some indicators are
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 41 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Impact of Krishna Pushkaralu on Developing New Tourist Destinations
As seen from the data collected through primary Age Below 40 years 98 Above 40 years 56 and secondary data, it is observed that at all bathing Place of ghats in two states of Telangana and Andhra Urban 110 Rural 44 residence Pradesh, the respective state governments have ensured availability of all these amenities. Easy Level of Below graduation Graduation and access to pedestrians and motor vehicles was created, education 46 above 108 sufficient accommodation provided, other amenities of food and catering, medical aid, cloak rooms, public Pushkaram experience wash rooms and toilets, changing rooms especially Less than More than for women on bathing ghats etc., were provided, Distance travelled in addition to paying special attention to crowd 100 km 24 100 km 130 management. First visit to Pushkaram Yes 10 No 144 Three Historical and cultural factors Visit to any other place Yes 108 No 46 The Pushkaram itself is seeped in Indian culture and Below Rs. Above Rs. Amount spent per person a day history, so no more special efforts are required. 500 80 500 74 Does Pushkaram promote Yes 110 No 44 Four Religious factors tourism The significance of Pushkaram is well explained in Was the event managed well Yes 120 No 34 medieval Hindu literature, espousing its character, benefits, procedure, and so on. It is observed that 1 day – 98, 2 days – 35, 3 days – 19, Over Hindus, along the river banks of all the twelve rivers, Duration of trip have been practicing Pushkaram for several hundred 3 days – 2 years, and observance is very much a part of Hindu Religious – 105, Cultural – 22, Family Purpose of trip religious practice. outing – 20, Adventure – 07 Five Other factors Bathing ghat – very good – 80, Crowd Ranking of management – good – 42, Food – Pushkarams were packaged and promoted as an elements opportunity beyond religious lines. It was positioned Moderate – 22, Travel – Poor – 10 as an opportunity to rediscover unknown lands, Overall trip Very good – 33, Good – 61, Average – connect with nature, visit temples, take time out experience 27, bad – 33 with family, and indulge in a bit of adventure. It was marketed as an event offering something All of above affirmatively demonstrate that the Krishna for everyone, and going by the findings, has been Pushkaram held from 12 to 23 August 2016, qualifies to successful. be niche tourism. There is a need to develop and promote new tourism destinations. Pushkaram offers a true Krishna Pushkaram 2016: Survey potential. Pushkaram, though mostly a Hindu ritual, it is A survey was conducted by sending an objective more cultural than religious. A trip to Pushkaram has all questionnaire to a judgmental sample size of 200 adults. other elements, a bit of adventure, some travel, a photo As per data received from a sample survey of 154 opportunity, discovering some hitherto unknown regions respondents, more than two thirds of respondents felt and so on. So, while it is difficult to put Pushkaram into a that Pushkaram has a positive role in promoting tourism. specific slot, it is fair to say it is very much a type of niche It is significant to note that almost all the respondents tourism, perhaps unique to India. are well educated, majority of them have participated in Conclusions Pushkaram more than once. The findings of survey are as follows: Pushkaram in India has a great pull factor. Besides being a religious and cultural event, it is a tourist event, falling About the survey in the niche tourism category. Pilgrims look for ‘more Number of questionnaires sent: 200 than just a holy dip’ and effective management is the key for success. Pushkaram has a potential to develop Number of filled in questionnaires received: 167 unknown places into potential tourist destinations. The Number of qualified responses: 154 (after eliminating those overall ambience and environment of a Pushkaram site who did not participate and incomplete) can be effectively positioned, promoted, marketed and Sample type: Judgmental, known to have participated in managed as a mega event or a festival. The new tourist Pushkaram destinations emerging out of Pushkaram require long term strategic management for sustained success, since Demographic the event happens once in twelve years. break up Hamsala Deevi, a small village about 85kms from Gender Male 101 Female 53 Vijayawada , is a place where river Krishna joins the
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 42 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Impact of Krishna Pushkaralu on Developing New Tourist Destinations sea. Till recently unknown, the Krishna Pushkaram has References made it into a popular spot for performing the holy dip, Niche tourism, contemporary issues, trends and cases – edited and owing to its serenity and natural scenic beauty, by Marina Novelli, University of Brighton it has emerged as a popular destination. With some The role of niche tourism products in destination development, development already happening for the event, it is slowly J.M.Ali-Knight turning out to be a tourist attraction. This proves the N.Prabhakaran, N.Panchanatham, Abasyn journal of social theory of pushkaram having a potential to develop new sciences, Vol.6, No.1. tourist destinations. Mail on line, 14th September, 2016 Suggestions for future studies Draft National Policy on Tourism, Government of India, 2015 To study the factors influencing selection of a spot for E-book of tourism ministry, sourced from website development as a pushkaram ghat, besides being on the FICCI – EY report – 2015 river front. Also to study in depth the parameters on Hall and Weller, 1992 which a lesser known spot, at or closer to pushkaram site Swarbrooke and Horner, 1999 becomes a tourist destination, and its life cycle. A deeper Derrett, 2001 study on the expectations and their realization of the Butler’s theory of destination life cycle pushkar pilgrims and tourists. JM Ali Knight – The role of niche tourism products in destination development
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 43 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020, pp. 65-73
Identifying Tourists’ Destination Loyalty: A Case Study of Gujarat
Rajul Malay Gandhi & Renuka Garg
The paper aims to identify tourists’ destination loyalty towards Gujarat, using Logit Analysis Technique. A descriptive research design and survey method was adopted for the study. A non-probability convenience sampling procedure was used and a total of 354 tourists were surveyed. Non-disguised, structured questionnaire was used as an instrument. The research indicates tourists’ likelihood on specific destination attributes that leads to identify tourists’ loyalty towards the destination. The features of the destination such as personal safety and security, entertainment activities, well- developed infrastructure and more entertainment facilities were considered as variables for the study. The research indicates that, the organisation should focus on fostering more positive attitude of tourists towards availability of suitable accommodation, good night life, value for money, uniqueness of destination, less traffic and crowd preferred, adequate provision of entertainment facilities, variety of tourism activities and well-developed infrastructure. Key words: Destination Loyalty, Logit Analysis, Gujarat
Introduction reference, which will ultimately result into the selection Destination loyalty of tourists is one of the major of the destination (Kivela and Crotts, 2006, Nam et al., challenge for every destination. To have the sustainable 2016, Qu et al., 2011, Tussyadiah et al., 2011). growth and competitive advantage, the destination needs As tourism worldwide gets attention of respective to have loyal tourists. Therefore, it has been suggested government, Gujarat is in the same direction and chalking having loyalty development program as a strategy out plans to attract more and more number of tourists to achieve competitive advantage (Pike &Page, 2014; to Gujarat. However, the state’s success in fetching Weaver &Lawton, 2011). Destination loyalty is comprised investment is not matched by the rise in tourist numbers, of two distinct perspectives: behavioral and attitudinal despite the Amitabh Bachchan’s ad campaign for Gujarat (Chen and Gursoy, 2001, Chi and Qu, 2008, Chi, 2011, tourism. The state tourism department has managed Oppermann, 2000, Pike, 2010, Prayag and Ryan, 2012, to bring in just 2 percent foreign tourists and 1 percent Yoon and Uysal, 2005). The first perspective focuses NRI tourists to Gujarat last year. Secondly, international on the repeat purchase while the second perspective of events such as Rann utsav in Kutch, Monsoon festival loyalty focuses on the recommendations to the friends in Saputara have also played a major role in making and family. The attitudinal loyalty is as important as the Gujarat a popular brand .1 Therefore, the study aims to behavioural one. identify destination attributes that tourists consider for recommending that will lead to new tourist arrival as According to Harrison-Walker (2001) the intention well as their revisit. This ultimately results in tourists’ to recommend others is defined as “the informal destination loyalty. person-to-person communication between a perceived noncommercial communicator and a receiver regarding Literature review a brand, a product, an organization, or a service”. To Literature review includes the description of destination generate qualified information on which tourists can rely loyalty, the importance of destination loyalty and details upon, the tourist destination is in need to have positive about Gujarat as a tourism destination.
Dr. Rajul Malay Gandhi Assistant Professor, Department of Hospitality Management, Sheth P. T. Mahila College of Arts and Home Science, Surat, Gujarat Dr. Renuka Garg Professor and Head of the Department, G. H. Bhakta Management Academy, Department of Business and Industrial Management, Surat, Gujarat
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 44 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Identifying Tourists’ Destination Loyalty: A Case Study of Gujarat Destination loyalty (Shoemaker and Lewis, 1999). Corte et al (2015) explained Pechlaner et al (2012); Vinh and Long (2013); Kim et al that positive experience from the provided products, (2013) suggested that loyalty for the destination leads to services and resources at the destinations, and satisfied future stability and growth of any tourism destination. experience from journey are some major determinants Gursoy et al (2014) and Sun et al (2013) also believed that cause tourists retention and positive word of mouth that the destination loyalty can be used as a predictor of and ultimate destination loyalty at the destination. competitive advantage and market success. Akroush et About Gujarat al (2016) explained that the Destination loyalty is one of the major indicators of an effective provision of tourism The Government of Gujarat has a vision to develop services and experiences to the tourists at the destination. and promote tourism as an “Engine of Growth” and to Ju (2015) explained that the loyalty can be attitudinal and bring Gujarat on the national and international tourist behavioral i.e the intention of revisiting the destination is map. The Tourism Policy envisages developing Gujarat 2 behavioral loyalty and recommending or word-of-mouth Tourism by E-marketing. The effective development is attitudinal loyalty. Oppermann (2000) also stated that in infrastructure undertaken by the Gujarat Tourism tourists’ loyalty including their likeliness of revisiting the Development Corporation has helped the State to increase destination and recommending to others will be helpful the number of tourists to Gujarat.3 In fact, there has been to reduce the marketing costs to attract the tourists. a quantum jump of 30% in tourist arrivals from 2009 till According to Gursoy et al (2014), it is very important for 2012!4 The multi-prolonged efforts of state tourism policy any tourism destination to attract and retain the tourists. to boost tourism in the state has brought lots of changes. Kumar and Shah (2004) defined attitudinal loyalty Gujarat tops among Indian states in attracting investment as the cognitive and expressive part of brand loyalty. in the sector, says a study by the apex industry body, According to Dick and Basu (1994), the customers will be Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India behavioural loyal to the firm until and unless they will (ASSOCHAM). The state ranks 9th in domestic tourists 5 be having availability of any other better options. Appiah arrivals and 15th for foreign tourists arrivals in India . et al (2016) also stated that attitudinal loyalty provides As per the 2015-20 tourism policy, the government of a holistic view in terms of an incline towards repeat Gujarat has vision to position Gujarat as a vibrant tourist buying behaviour, refuse to switch to other competitive destination, with an emphasis on improving visitor firms, oppose for negative opinion about the firm, firm experience, livelihood linkages, environmental concerns belief, readiness to pay higher prices and readiness to and enhancing investment opportunities, thus catapulting recommend the firm to the others. tourism as one of the most important economic drivers, Chen and Gursoy (2001) identified that, it has become leading to sustainable development and inclusive growth important for policy makers or destination managers to in the State. determine the reasons behind tourists’ loyalty towards To enhance the experience of tourists and to develop the a destination as the competition among destinations is state as a tourism destination, the government of Gujarat increasing. The “intention to revisit the destination” and has developed various action plans : Policy based Plans, “recommendation to others” are the major factors that Project based Plans, Event based Plans6 and strategies reflect tourists’ loyalty towards destination and satisfied such as: augmentation of tourist infrastructure, tourist- tourists as the key to develop tourists’ loyalty (Corte et centric approach, skill development & employment al, 2015; Neuts et al, 2013). Tourist loyalty can be defined generation, promotion of ‘Make In India’ and ‘Digital as commitment of tourists to repurchase the desired India’, thrust on environment-friendliness, sanitation products or services on a continuous basis in future and cleanliness, emphasis on innovation, participation irrespective of the influence of situations or marketing in GOI schemes, active collaboration with the central efforts that may cause a switch in tourists’ behaviour government, multi-pronged approach for ease of doing (Oliver, 1999). business and proactive role of the state government.7 Importance of destination loyalty Gujarat Infrastructure Agenda - Vision 2010 prepared by Gujarat Infrastructure Development Board (GIDB) is Loyalty leads to retention of tourists, and strong positive the first “Holistic Plan” for infrastructure development in destination image (Chen and Gursoy, 2001); sustained Gujarat. attractiveness of the destination (Corte et al, 2015); effective promotion without incurring marketing costs Research methodology (Neuts et al, 2013); longer stays of the tourists, and increased participation of tourists in tourism activities I. Research Objective and positive word of mouth (Li et al, 2010; Zhang et The objective of this research paper is to identify destination al, 2014); and retaining tourists that leads to reduced attributes tourists consider while recommending which marketing costs as compared to attracting new tourists results in destination loyalty.
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 45 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Identifying Tourists’ Destination Loyalty: A Case Study of Gujarat II. Research Plan mean of destination attributes, following dimensions Research approach adopted for the study is quantitative. were identified for logistic regression, namely: Research design is descriptive. For data collection, survey availability of suitable accommodation , good night life, was conducted with snow ball technique (in person adequate provision of entertainment activities, value 58%, snowball 42%) with non- probability convenience for money, uniqueness of destination, less traffic and as sampling procedure. Both primary and secondary crowd preferred, adequate provision of entertainment data sources are used. Structured questionnaires were facilities, variety of tourism activities and well-developed used as an instrument for collecting primary data. infrastructure. For the secondary data Government reports, journals, III. Data analysis magazines, newspapers and websites, books were Quantitative data analysis was done and Logistic scanned. Sampling plan includes sample unit of tourists Regression Analysis technique was used in this research visiting Gujarat. Total population size is 25409000 which paper is derived from Statistical abstract of Gujarat state 2013, Directorate of economics and statistics, Government of Discussion 8 Gujarat, Gandhinagar. The sample size for the study is A logistic regression was performed to ascertain the 385. The sample size is calculated by using Sample size 9 effects of availability of suitable accommodation, calculator. Out of 385 tourist respondents, 354 tourists good night life, adequate provision of entertainment are considered as 31 tourists replied neutral {Tourists activities, value for money, uniqueness of destination, from Gujarat- 19536000, Tourists from other Indian state less traffic and crowd preferred, adequate provision -5356000, NRIs/ Foreigners-517000; 0.001% of 25409000= of entertainment facilities, variety of tourism activities 385 (sample size)}. and well-developed infrastructure. on the likelihood After conducting factor analysis for destination attributes that tourists will recommend the destination to others.10 performance and calculating importance performance Loyalty has been coded as 0 (loyal) and 1 (disloyal)
Table: 1 Classification table
Classification Tablea,b
Observed Recommendation to others Percentage LOYAL DIS LOYAL Correct
LOYAL 341 0 100.0 Recommendation to others Step 0 DIS LOYAL 13 0 .0
Overall Percentage 96.3
A. Constant is included in the model.
B. The cut value is .500 Logistic regression was able to classify 96.3% of the cases correctly. Table: 2 Omnibus Tests of Model Coefficients
Omnibus Tests of Model Coefficients
Chi-square df Sig.
Step 1 Step 64.024 9 .000
Block 64.024 9 .000
Model 64.024 9 .000
Under Omnibus Tests of Model Coefficients, we see that our latest model is significantly better. The logistic regression model was statistically significant, 2χ = 64.024, p < .000511
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 46 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Identifying Tourists’ Destination Loyalty: A Case Study of Gujarat Table: 3 Model summary We see that Nagelkerke’s R² is 0.613 which indicates that the model is very good.12 Model Summary Table:4 Hosmer and Lemeshow Goodness-of-fit Test -2 Log Cox & Snell R Nagelkerke R Step likelihood Square Square Hosmer and Lemeshow Test a 1 47.406 .165 .613 Step Chi-square df Sig. a. Estimation terminated at iteration number 10 because 1 6.249 8 parameter estimates changed by less than .001. .619 The model summary table includes the Pseudo R², the -2 The Hosmer & Lemeshow test of the goodness of log likelihood is the minimization criteria used by SPSS. fit suggests that the model is a good fit to the data as p=0.619 (>.05).13
Table: 5 Variables in Equation
Variables in the Equation B S.E. Wald df Sig. Exp(B) Availability of suitable accommodation 3.219 1.396 5.322 1 .021 25.012 Good nightlife -3.026 1.296 5.447 1 .020 .049 Adequate provision of entertainment activities 1.382 1.199 1.328 1 .249 3.983 Value for money -4.974 1.656 9.027 1 .003 .007 Uniqueness of destination -1.686 .701 5.784 1 .016 .185 Step 1a Less traffic and crowd preferred 3.496 1.237 7.981 1 .005 32.982 Adequate provision of entertainment facilities 3.505 1.485 5.571 1 .018 33.295 Variety of tourism activities 2.885 1.071 7.261 1 .007 17.902 Well-developed infrastructure -2.937 1.225 5.751 1 .016 .053 Constant -11.110 6.336 3.074 1 .080 .000 a. Variable(s) entered on step 1: Availability of suitable accommodation , Good night life, Adequate provision of entertainment activities, Val- ue for money, Uniqueness of destination, Less traffic and crowd preferred, Adequate provision of entertainment facilities, Variety of tourism activities, Well-developed infrastructure
The Wald Chi-Square statistic, which tests the unique facilities, variety of tourism activities and well-developed contribution of each predictor, in the context of the other infrastructure, for recommending Gujarat as a tourism predictors -- that is, holding constant the other predictors destination to others, are significant in explaining -- that is, eliminating any overlap between predictors.14 destination loyalty than of attitude towards adequate The statistical significance of the test is found in the “Sig.” provision of entertainment activities. column. From these results, we can see that According to Wald statistics of significance the most Availability of suitable accommodation (p = .021), important attribute to foster destination loyalty is Value Good night life (p = .020), Value for money (p = .003), for money (Wald value = 9.027, p = .003) and attribute that Uniqueness of destination(p = .016), Less traffic and least influence destination loyalty is Adequate provision crowd preferred (p = .005), Adequate provision of of entertainment activities (Wald value = 1.328, p = .249). entertainment facilities (p = .018), Variety of tourism With the help of “Variables in the Equation” table, the activities (p = .007), Well-developed infrastructure (p = prediction of the probability of an event occurring based .016) added significantly to the model/prediction, but on a one unit change in an independent variable when all Adequate provision of entertainment activities (p = .249) other independent variables are kept constant.16 Adequate did not add significantly to the model.15 provision of entertainment facilities indicates that when Therefore, it can be said that, attitude toward availability holding all other variables constant, recommendation of suitable accommodation, good night life, value to others is 33.295 times i.e almost 33 times more likely for money, uniqueness of destination, less traffic and towards destination loyalty. Similarly attributes such as crowd preferred, adequate provision of entertainment Less traffic and crowd preferred = 33 times, Availability of suitable accommodation = 25 times, Variety of tourism
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 47 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Identifying Tourists’ Destination Loyalty: A Case Study of Gujarat activities = 18 times, Good nightlife = 5 times, Value for money = .7 times, Uniqueness of destination = 18 times and Well-developed infrastructure = 5 times more likely towards destination loyalty, when holding all other variables constant. Adequate provision of entertainment activities indicates that when holding all other variables constant, not recommending to others is 3.893times i.e. almost 4 times.17 In other words, the provision of entertainment activi- ties in Gujarat as a tourists’ destination is inadequate. They are not satisfied with the available entertain- ment activities and would not like to recommend to others in this regard. Whereas, the manager seeking to increase destination loyalty should focus on fos- tering more positive attitude toward availability of suitable accommodation , good night life, value for money, uniqueness of destination, less traffic and crowd preferred, adequate provision of entertain- ment facilities, variety of tourism activities, well-de- veloped infrastructure and not worry about adequate provision of entertainment activities.18
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 48 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Identifying Tourists’ Destination Loyalty: A Case Study of Gujarat Conclusion One of the major concerns of destination managers is to address the major factors which affect tourist retention and positive word of mouth and improve the appeal of the destination. As rightly said by Corte et al (2015), the degree of tourists’ loyalty to a destination is reflected in their intentions to revisit the destination and in their recommendations to others. The research identifies that the tourism policy maker seeking to increase destination loyalty should focus on fostering more positive attitude toward availability of suitable accommodation , good night life, adequate provision of entertainment activities, value for money, uniqueness of destination, less traffic and crowd preferred, adequate provision of entertainment facilities, variety of tourism activities and well-developed infrastructure, for recommending Gujarat as a tourism destination to others, are significant in explaining destination loyalty than of attitude towards adequate provision of entertainment activities. There should be adequate provision of entertainment of activities so as to seize the degree of tourists’ loyalty to a destination in terms of their intentions to revisit and recommendations to others. Note: 1. Entertainment facilities: facilities for enabling persons to take part in entertainment20. Examples of entertainment facilities yachts, hunting lodge, fishing camps, swimming pools, tennis courts, bowling Picture:1 probability of occurrence alleys, automobiles, airplanes, apartments, hotel suites, homes in vacation resorts21. With the help of table 5, calculation of the probability of each respondent to be loyal or disloyal can be 2. Entertainment activities: it is a form of activity that 19 holds the attention and interest of audience, or gives identified. pleasure and delight22. st 1 step: formulate Logit model Endnotes Logit = constant value (coefficient*a+ coefficient*b+ 1 Lakshmi Ajay: Ahmedabad, Sat Jul 20, 2013,04:21hrs, coefficient*c+…) Khushboo Gujarat ki casts spell mostly on Gujaratis, reveals tourism dept data, Googleweblight.com/?lite_ Logit = -11.110(3.219*Availability of suitable url=http://archieve.indianexpress.com/ news/ accommodation+ -3.026*Good nightlife+ 1.382*Adequate khushboo-gujarat-ki- casts- spell -mostly –on- Gujarati- provision of entertainment activities+-4.974* Value for reveals- tourism –dept- data / money+ - 1.686*Uniqueness of destination+ 3.496*Less 2 Vansiya, Y. N. and Ragothaman, S. (2012) TOURISM traffic and crowd preferred+ 3.505*Adequate provision DEVELOPMENT IN GUJARAT : PROGRESS AND of entertainment facilities+2.885*Variety of tourism PROSPECTS, NJRIM VOL.2, NO.1, ISSN: 2249 – 0906 activities+-2.937*Well-developed infrastructure) 3 www.gujarattourism.com/general/view/2http:// www.gujarattourism.com/general/view/2 nd 2 step: find Odds value 4 L. Z. Rodrigues, | Mumbai, Thursday, 10:00 Hrs [IST], Odds= eLogit http://www.travelbizmonitor.com/gujarat-travel- mart-2013-set-to-be-a-bigger-event-with-40-increase-in- 3rd step: find probability of occurrence participation-19673 March 14, 2013 5 TNN|04.03 AM IST, Gujarat tops in tourism investment: P(y)= Odds/1+Odds Study, http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ In the above table, the respondent number 14,16 and 66 Ahmedabad/Gujarat-tops-in-tourism-investment- are having probability to be converted from disloyal to Study/articleshow/40449145.cms?from=mdr Aug 20, loyal. 2014
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 49 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Identifying Tourists’ Destination Loyalty: A Case Study of Gujarat 6 Analysis of Plans for Tourism Development, Chen, J. & Gursoy, D. 2001. An investigation of tourists’ http://shodhganga.inflibnet.ac.in/ destination loyalty and preferences. 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(2010), RESEARCH CamachoManuelaVega-Vázquez (2019) The tourist loyalty IN BRIEF- Destination image and choice intention of index: A new indicator for measuring tourist destination university student travellers to Mauritius International loyalty?. Journal of Innovation & Knowledge. Volume 4, Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management Vol. Issue 2, April–June 2019, Pages 71-77 22 No. 5, 2010 pp. 758-764 Cited in : Francisco-JoséCossío-SilvaMaría-ÁngelesRevilla- 22 Alaeddinoglu, F. & Can, A. S. (2010 Destination Image CamachoManuelaVega-Vázquez (2019) The tourist loyalty from the Perspective of Travel Intermediaries, Anatolia: index: A new indicator for measuring tourist destination An International Journal of Tourism and Hospitality loyalty?. Journal of Innovation & Knowledge. Volume 4, Research, 21:2, 339-350 Issue 2, April–June 2019, Pages 71-77 References Corte, V, D., Sciarelli, M., Cascella, C., Gaudio, G, D., (2015), Alaeddinoglu, F. & Can, A. S. 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Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 52 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020, pp. 74-81
Creating Shareholders Wealth Through Mergers and Acquisitions: A Long Term Study with Special Reference to Indian Hotel and Tourism Sector
Vinod M Lakhwani & Sangeeta Jauhari
Creating wealth for shareholders is the core objective of the companies. Accordingly, they device their business strategies that help them to fulfill their intent. While doing so, there are certain crucial factors to reflect upon, namely - Entry and exit barriers, capital requirement, availability of the substitutes, number of existing players, regulatory approvals and so on. Based on this a firm may decide to go with the internal or external expansion. Mergers and Acquisitions popularly known as M&A are one of the ways for external expansion that has gained popularity across the globe among the business players from several sectors. Due to this, the researchers are intrigued towards studying the financial aspects of M&A and has assessed the performance of the acquiring firms in order to gauge its impact majorly in the short run, subsequent to the merger. The present study in an attempt to add on in the existing body of the knowledge by comparing the before and after merger performance of 6 companies selected from Indian Hotel and Tourism Sector that have acquired and merged the firms in the F.Y. 2005 - 2006 and 2006 - 2007 and are operating till date. To do so, Du Pont Return on Equity (ROE) framework has been utilized as to check whether the shareholders wealth has increased in the long run or not. The result found was that there was a mixed effect of the M&A on the companies. Keywords: Mergers and Acquisitions, Du Pont ROE Framework, Indian Hotel and Tourism, Long Run Assessment.
Introduction Even though, this mechanism brings in varieties of The business world has witnessed many changes globally synergies but upto what extent the firms are able to cash in present times on several fronts. Regulatory aspects, in from it. In addition to that, whether these payoffs are advanced technology, economic scenario and demand the immediate or distant is the question seek an answer. from consumers are few to list. This has intensified The studies done so far has assessed the performance of the competition among the players leading to price the acquiring firms in order to gauge its impact majorly in wars among themselves. As a result, corporates are the short run, subsequent to the merger. experiencing profit bleed and left with two options - The present study in an attempt to add on in the existing either to close down the operations or become targets to body of the knowledge by comparing the before and after a strong financial muscle firms which in turns affect the merger performance of 6 companies selected from Indian wealth of the shareholders. The key gainers or losers in Hotel and Tourism Sector that have acquired and merged latter scenario are the shareholders who have taken risk the firms in the F.Y. 2005 - 2006 and 2006 - 2007 and are and provided the required funds to the business units operating till date. To do so, Du Pont Return on Equity with the aim of getting better returns on their investments. (ROE) framework has been utilized as to check whether Mergers and Acquisitions also known as M&A is one such the shareholders wealth has increased in the long run or way which has well received by the globally by many not. business organizations of diverse sectors. Merger of Dena Literature Review Bank and Vijaya Bank with Bank of Baroda, Capital First and IDFC Bank Merger, Essar Steel merger with Arcelor Kumar and Bansal (2008) conducted their study by Mittal and acquisition of GSK Consumer Health India selecting 22 mergers and 52 acquisitions as a sample from Ltd. with HUL are the recent deals to illustrate in several M&A deals in 2003. They compared the financial results by sectors. working out liquidity, operating ratios, overall efficiency;
Dr. Vinod M Lakhwani Assistant Professor, School of Business, Auro University, Surat, Gujrat Dr. Sangeeta Jauhari HOD, Management, Rabindranath Tagore University, Bhopal, M.P.
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 53 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Creating Shareholders Wealth Through Mergers and Acquisitions:... equity shareholders’ return ratios for three years each years after merger. The results depicted that M&A in the - pre deal and post deal. The end results showed that long term is pay off strategy and companies rather than in majority cases of mergers as well as acquisitions the sector get advantage of M&A. companies were able to generate synergies by gauging Objective of the Study the better financial performance in post-merger and acquisition scenario. As stated above, the intention of current study is to find as to whether M&A has been helpful in enhancing the Herciu, Ogrean and Belascu (2011) computed ROS, shareholder wealth and does it give instant results or after ROA and ROE as per Du Pont framework to top 20 considerable time. To do so the financial performance of most profitable companies in the world in 2009 asper companies has been computed and compared before and Fortune and found that all these firms will have different after merger by using Du Pont Return on Equity (ROE) ranking when rated as per above mentioned parameters model and hypothesis that has been constructed are as and henceforth every time absolute measures will not be follows:- pertinent. H = There is no significant effect on Return on Equity Christina and Karthikeyan (2012) evaluated the financial 0 (ROE) before and after M&A. performance of Indian Pharmaceutical sector by taking top 3 players as a sample. They used Dupont Analysis and H1 = There is significant effect on Return on Equity (ROE) calculated ROI and ROE accordingly for the period of ten before and after M&A. years (2003-2012). They found that pharma companies are H = There is no significant effect on Equity Multiplier more focused on absolute measures rather than relative 0 which will may not present a true and fair picture every before and after M&A. time. Hence relative size of the firms should also be taken H1 = There is significant effect on Equity Multiplier into consideration while computing ratios. before and after M&A. Leepsa and Mishra (2013) conducted their study specific H0 = There is no significant effect on Return on Assets to Indian manufacturing sectors by selecting the deals (ROA) before and after M&A. during 2003-2004 to 2006-2007. They computed liquidity, H = There is significant effect on Return on Assets profitability and solvency ratios and compared the effect 1 with pre and post-merger taking the time frame of three (ROA) before and after M&A. years for each. Their research findings were that M&A H0 = There is no significant effect on Net Profit Margin impact were reflected in the immediate years categorically (NPM) before and after M&A. in event and the first year after M&A. H1 = There is significant effect on Net Profit Margin Panda and Sriram (2013) found that M&A improves (NPM) before and after M&A. the profitability as well as enhance the speed of H = There is no significant effect on Asset Turnover innovation. They conducted their study specific to Indian 0 pharmaceutical sector by taking sample of four companies Ratio (ATR) before and after M&A. who done acquisition overseas. For arriving at result they H1 = There is significant effect on Asset Turnover Ratio took financial and patent fillings data for eight years and (ATR) before and after M&A. measured profitability with respect to gross profit and operating margins. Data Collection Methodology and Tools and Tech- niques Implemented- Trivedi (2013) chosen top 30 M&A deals struck between 2006-2011 and evaluated their financial performance The current research work is based on secondary data based on PBDIT, PBT, PAT, PBDIT to Total Income, entirely. Data with respect to the M&A deals of F.Y. 2004- Pat to Total Income, Return on net worth, on capital 2005, 2005-2006 and 2006-2007, sectorial segregation and employed, quick, current, debt- equity, interest coverage financial data about sales, net profit and total assets for and EPS ratios. All these parameters were compared ratios calculations has been extracted assiduously from prior and subsequent merger for the time period of three Prowess – Centre For Monitoring Indian Economics years and inferred that except EPS companies registered (CMIE) Database. Besides these M&A deals were validated improvement in PBDIT, PBT and PAT. from annual reports, companies and stock exchange websites. To have precise results, M&A pacts between the Lakhwani, Tiwari and Jauhari (2017) conducted a study holding, subsidiary companies were eliminated. A total on sample of 24 companies that have merged the targets in 453 deals for all three years were analyzed and a sample F.Y. 2005 – 2006 to assess the long term impact of M&A by of 6 companies that belongs to Indian Hotel and Tourism employing Du Pont Return on Assets (ROA) Framework. sector were freeze for the study. They took data for twelve years – six years before and six
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 54 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Creating Shareholders Wealth Through Mergers and Acquisitions:... Table I – Sector wise list of Acquirers and Target Companies
Main Sector of the Acquirer Name of the Acquirer Name of the Target Main Sector of the Target Year of Merger Kamat Hotels (India) Ltd. Himco (India) Ltd. Hotels and Tourism E I H Associated Hotels Indus Hotel Corpn. 2005-2006 Hotels and Tourism Ltd. Ltd. Hotel Leelaventure Ltd. Kovalam Hotels Ltd. Hotels and Tourism Hotels and Tourism Indian Hotels Co. Ltd. Taj Lands End Ltd. Hotels and Tourism Taj G V K Hotels & Resorts Sri Tripurasundari 2006-2007 Hotels and Tourism Ltd. Hotels Ltd. Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. L K P Forex Ltd. Other Financial Services
For facilitating pre and post-merger comparison, data for time. Asset Turnover Ratio shows the extent to which twelve years were amassed, parting window of six years assets are used efficaciously for generating sales. Equity for each juncture. Thus, for F.Y. 2004-2005 financial data Multiplier also known as Financial Leverage exhibits the were collected from F.Y. 1998 - 1999 to F.Y. 2003 – 2004 for proportion of assets being financed through shareholders’ pre-merger and from F.Y. 2005-2006 to F.Y. 2010 – 2011 money. for the post-merger period. Similarly, for M&A Deals of F.Y. 2005 - 2006 financial data were collected from F.Y. 1999 - 2000 to F.Y. 2004 – 2005 for pre-merger and from F.Y. 2006 - 2007 to F.Y. 2011 – 2012 for post-merger period and for M&A Deals of F.Y. 2006 - 2007 financial data were collected from F.Y.2000 - 2001 to F.Y. 2005 – 2006 for pre-merger and from F.Y. 2007 - 2008 to F.Y. 2012 – 2013 for post-merger period. The duration of six years was selected due to the Prowess database limitation. Moving further, all three ratios were calculated and analysis was done with reference to mean, standard deviation and coefficient of variation to see the impact of M&A on the firms. Also paired t test were applied at 5% to check the significant effect. Figure I: Du Pont ROE Framework DuPont Return On Equity (ROE) Framework Results and Analysis:- In 1920s DuPont bought crappy General Motors and F. Donaldson Brown, the treasurer of the company was Impact on Return on Equity earmarked for cleaning up the topsy - turvy finance. The mean values from Table II shows that out of 6 During that time he found the interconnectivity of firms, ROE of 2 firms have increased along with their Income Statement and Balance Sheet components, thus standard deviation (Table III) after the merger indicating he established a relationship between Return on Assets, that although return has enhanced but at the same Net Profit Margin and Asset Turnover Ratio and the time volatility also exists. The coefficient of variation influence one will have with the change in the other. values of these firms (Table IV) highlight that one is Thereafter this model became popular and was known as experiencing relativity lesser fluctuation as compare to DuPont Analysis. other. Remaining 4 firms who ROE has decreased are ROE framework is an extended version of Return on majorly having fluctuation in earnings at the same time Assets (ROA) structure. It explains the relationship the variability has also gone up relatively. The ROE of E between three different types of ratios – profitability, I H Associated Hotels Ltd. and Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. efficiency and leverage. Return on Equity measures the has notably improved following the merger (Table V). profit after tax earned by the company in relation to Effect on Equity Multiplier funds given by equity shareholders; Return on Assets Looking at the mean values (Table II) it was found that depicts the net profit generated by the firm with reference firms are equally distributed on increasing and decreasing to amount of funds deployed in the assets and Net Profit front. All 3 firms whose equity multiplier has gone up Margin shows the amount of profit made by the business subsequent to merger the standard deviation (Table III) on the total sales generated during a specific period of and coefficient of variation values (Table IV) has also Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 55 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Creating Shareholders Wealth Through Mergers and Acquisitions:... been on higher side leading to that equity funds are being the efficiency of E I H Associated Hotels Ltd. whereas used for funding assets but the same time the proportion Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. has experienced reduction on is also changing every time. The equity multiplier of E the same count subsequent to the merger. (Table IX). I H Associated Hotels Ltd. has significantly decreased Discussion and of Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. has notably increased following the merger (Table VI). The end results of the study show that the mergers have mixed effect on the performance of the companies in Imnfluence on Return on Assets the long run. The ROE of E I H Associated Hotels Ltd. Of the 6 companies, the mean value of ROA (Table II) and Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. has become better after of 4 firms has fallen following the merger. Contrast to the merger resulting into increase in the wealth of the that there is rise in standard deviation of 3 firms and shareholders. Through M&A, EIH Associated Hotels Ltd. fall in standard deviation of 1 firm but the coefficient of has gained on Net Profit Margin, Return on Assets and variation values of all firms has seen an upswing. This Asset Turnover Ratio. This means that it has seen overall manifests that after M&A along with drop these players growth in the profitability and has improved efficiency are also facing instability in the earnings. From the as well. On the contrary, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. has remaining 2 firms who have higher ROA, one firm has not been able to reap the fruits of M&A. Although the low values in both – standard deviation and coefficient shareholders return has increased but there is fall in of variation, whereas the second one has high values in overall profitability and efficiency after the merger. standard deviation and coefficient of variation too. The ROA of E I H Associated Hotels Ltd. has significantly Postlude enhanced and ROA of Thomas Cook (India) Limited has The current study was undertaken to see as to whether significantly gone down after M&A (Table VII). the financial performance of the companies enhances after M&A in the long run or not by deploying the Du Effect on Net Profit Margin Pont ROE framework, with specificity to the Indian Hotel From the mean values of NPM (Table II) it was observed and Tourism Industry. It was observed that companies that profitability of 4 firms and 2 firms has enhanced and experienced the mixed impact. fallen following the merger respectively. Out of these 4 firms, 3 have a high standard deviation and coefficient of Future Course of Action for Research variation values too, and only 1 firm has both the values The present piece of work gives new direction to the in a downtrend. This portrays that majority of the firms future researchers in which they can do a similar kind of who have better results in terms of margins after the study by taking a large sample size of the players from merger, but at the same time they have come across the the same sector. Also, they can choose other industries anomaly also. Remaining 2 firms, whose profitability has and find out whether the results obtained are similar in decreased after merger do have a standard deviation on nature or they differ. Another aspect of the study can lower side, but the coefficient of variation on the higher be covered by computing the set of ratios to assess the side exhibiting the fact that these firms loose on one count liquidity, solvency, profitability, debt – equity and other but gaining on other i.e. M&A hinder the margins but variables of the firms Qualitative analysis can also be brings the stability into it. E I H Associated Hotels Ltd done by developing models to find out the factors other NPM has improved whereas Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. than M&A that affects the performance of the companies. NPM decreased significantly subsequent to the merger (Table VIII). References Georgios, K., & Georgios, H. (2011).Du Pont Analysis of a Bank Influence on Assets Turnover Ratio Merger and Acquisition between Laiki Bank from Cyprus The mean values of ATR (Table III) show that 4 firms and Marfin Investment Group from Greece. Is there an have experienced a downfall in the turnover ratios and increase of profitability of the new bank, 157-176. only 2 firms have better turnover ratios in comparison Kumar, R. (2009). Post-merger corporate performance an Indian to the pre-merger period. Each firm having a boom Perspective. Management Research News, 32(2), 145-157. in efficiency has a different outcome with respect to Kumar, S., & Bansal, L.K. (2008). The impact of mergers standard deviation and coefficient of variation values. and acquisitions on corporate performance in India. One found with spurt and other with a reduction in both. Management Decision, 46(10), 1531-1543. Out of the 4 firms whose efficiency has been affected Lakhwani, V.M., Tiwari, S., & Jauhari, S. (2017) Reaping the adversely, 3 firms have found with growth in standard Returns of M&A: A Pre and Post Analysis of Indian Firms. deviation and coefficient of variation of values as well Sankalan - International Multidisciplinary Peer Reviewed and the only single firm has a low standard deviation but Research Journal, 2(2), 583-593. the high coefficient of variation of values. This limn that Lakhwani, V.M., Tiwari, S., & Jauhari, S. (2017). Mergers and handful of firms have been benefited from M&A when Acquisitions: A Quick or Distant Payoff Strategy? Pointers it comes to efficiency. There is noteworthy increment in from Indian Consumer Goods and Information Technology
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 56 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Creating Shareholders Wealth Through Mergers and Acquisitions:...
Sector. Sodhayatan AISECT University Journal of Panda, T.K., & Sriram, S. (2013). Competitive Advantage through Commerce, Arts, Education, Sociology and Humanities Mergers and Acquisitions for Indian Pharmaceutical 4(6), 568-576. Companies. Proceedings of anInternational Conference on Business Management and International Systems Institute Leepsa, N.M., & Mishra, C.S. (2013). Do Mergers & Acquisitions of Management Technology, Dubai,19-21 November, 247- Pay Off Immediately? Evidence from Mergers and 53. Acquisitions in India. South Asian Journal of Management, 20(3), 39-57. Rani, N., Yadav, S.S., & Jain, P.K. (2013). Post M&A operating Performance of Indian Acquiring Firms: A Du Pont Analysis. International Journal of Economics and Finance, 5(8), 65-75.
Asset Turnover Return on Equity Equity Multiplier Return on Assets Net Profit Margin Ratio Company Name Post- Post- Pre- Post- Pre- Post- Pre- Post- Pre-Merger Pre-Merger Merger Merger Merger Merger Merger Merger Merger Merger Mean Mean Mean Mean Mean Mean Mean Mean Mean Mean E I H Associated Hotels -30.4667 14.9333 11.4217 5.5683 -2.5900 2.7183 -11.1700 6.7933 0.2483 0.3967 Limited
Kamat Hotels (India) 13.8167 12.8833 12.7900 9.7183 1.1433 1.9667 4.1467 7.4200 0.2550 0.2133 Limited
Hotel Leela Ventures 20.6833 53.6833 14.5217 19.6850 1.5483 0.4050 10.8600 1.9617 0.1233 0.1000 Limited
Indian Hotels 20.4833 4.9667 5.2983 14.0900 4.3183 2.7883 12.6650 7.9900 0.3267 0.2850 Company Limited
Taj G V K Hotels and 52.5333 41.7000 6.4200 5.5717 8.5167 8.4417 15.5933 16.2000 0.5333 0.4833 Resorts Limited
Thomas Cook (India) 21.3167 61.4333 2.3400 13.4517 9.0583 4.7767 19.1450 13.2800 0.4700 0.3567 Limited
Table II: Pre and Post Mean Values of All Ratios Table III: Pre and Post Std. Dev. Values of All Ratios
Asset Turnover Return on Equity Equity Multiplier Return on Assets Net Profit Margin Ratio Company Name Pre- Post- Pre- Post- Pre- Post- Pre- Post- Pre- Post- Merger Merger Std. Merger Merger Merger Merger Merger Merger Merger Merger Std. Dev. Dev. Std. Dev. Std. Dev. Std. Dev. Std. Dev. Std. Dev. Std. Dev. Std. Dev. Std. Dev. E I H Associated 20.02735 4.06923 5.5103 0.4214 1.4567 0.8152 6.4829 1.8063 0.0519 0.0326 Hotels Limited
Kamat Hotels 12.30633 14.25025 1.5467 3.2554 1.0641 2.5083 3.7199 8.5665 0.0288 0.0612 (India) Limited
Hotel Leela 2.5933 19.08637 51.40554 23.3413 1.4114 3.8593 9.1269 35.6637 0.0377 0.0316 Ventures Limited
Indian Hotels 5.0570 68.5575 1.6700 10.8573 3.1903 3.3021 8.7829 5.9406 0.0696 0.0339 Company Limited
Taj G V K Hotels 17.6940 22.0449 0.8470 1.1658 3.9253 5.8601 5.5723 8.3018 0.0561 0.1013 and Resorts Limited
Thomas Cook 2.1037 5.8214 10.6368 0.2502 2.8655 1.3353 3.2686 2.8014 0.0513 0.0683 (India) Limited
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 57 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Creating Shareholders Wealth Through Mergers and Acquisitions:... Table IV: Pre and Post Std. Coefficient of Variation Values of All Ratios
Asset Turnover Return on Equity Equity Multiplier Return on Assets Net Profit Margin Ratio Company Name Pre- Post- Pre- Post- Pre- Post- Pre- Post- Pre- Post- Merger Merger Merger Merger Merger Merger Merger Merger Merger Merger C.V. C.V. C.V. C.V. C.V. C.V. C.V. C.V. C.V. C.V.
E I H Associated Hotels -56.26 29.96 -58.02 26.62 20.63 8.12 -65.81 27.33 48.26 7.57 Limited
Kamat Hotels (India) 93.11 127.51 89.76 115.44 11.90 28.22 89.14 110.64 12.09 33.50 Limited
Hotel Leela Ventures 91.19 953.42 84.04 1817.08 30.49 31.62 92.38 95.76 17.84 118.59 Limited
Indian Hotels Company 46.43 158.07 31.25 152.65 18.08 31.68 24.72 1379.17 31.52 77.06 Limited
Taj G V K Hotels and 46.08 69.41 35.73 51.24 10.66 21.37 33.70 52.91 13.20 20.90 Resorts Limited
Thomas Cook (India) 23.23 27.94 17.08 21.11 10.93 19.42 27.38 17.32 10.73 21.31 Limited
Table V: Paired Sample Test Results for Return on Equity Ratio
Paired Differences
95% Confidence Std. Interval of the Std. Sig. Mean Error Difference t df Deviation Mean (2-tailed) Lower Upper
Pair 1 EIH Associated Hotels -45.4000 16.51702 6.74305 -62.7335 -28.06645 -6.733 5 0.001 Limited Post and Pre Merger
Pair 2 Kamat Hotels (India) 0.93333 11.02881 4.50249 -10.64069 12.50736 0.207 5 0.844 Limited Post and Pre Merger
Pair 3 Hotel Leela Ventures -33.0000 45.15409 18.43408 -80.38631 14.38631 -1.790 5 0.133 Limited Post and Pre Merger
Pair 4 Indian Hotels Company 15.51667 71.11212 29.03140 -59.11093 90.14426 .534 5 0.616 Limited Post and Pre Merger
Pair 5 Taj G V K Hotels and Resorts Limited Post and Pre 10.83333 39.48796 16.12089 -30.60674 52.27340 .672 5 0.531 Merger
Pair 6 Thomas Cook (India) Limited -40.11667 14.62592 5.97101 -55.46563 -24.76770 -6.719 5 0.001 Post and Pre Merger
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 58 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Creating Shareholders Wealth Through Mergers and Acquisitions:... Table VI: Paired Sample Test Results for Equity Multiplier Ratio
Paired Differences 95% Confidence Interval of Std. Std. Error Sig. Mean the Difference t df Deviation Mean (2-tailed) Lower Upper Pair 1 EIH Associated Hotels 5.85333 5.23502 2.13719 .35951 11.34715 2.739 5 0.041 Limited Post and Pre Merger Pair 2 Kamat Hotels (India) 3.07167 3.87380 1.58147 -.99363 7.13697 1.942 5 0.110 Limited Post and Pre Merger Pair 3 Hotel Leela Ventures Limited -5.16333 22.74662 9.28627 -29.03445 18.70778 -.556 5 0.602 Post and Pre Merger Pair 4 Indian Hotels Company -8.79167 11.39828 4.65333 -20.75343 3.17010 -1.889 5 0.117 Limited Post and Pre Merger Pair 5 Taj G V K Hotels and Resorts Limited .84833 1.78858 .73018 -1.02867 2.72533 1.162 5 0.298 Post and Pre Merger Pair 6 Thomas Cook (India) Limited -11.11167 3.00174 1.22546 -14.26180 -7.96153 -9.067 5 0.000 Post and Pre Merger
Table VII: Paired Sample Test Results for Return on Asset Ratio
95% Confidence Interval of the Std. Std. Error Sig. Mean Difference t df Deviation Mean (2-tailed) Lower Upper
Pair 1 EIH Associated Hotels Limited -6.93408 -3.68259 5 -5.30833 1.54916 .63244 -8.393 0.000 Post and Pre Merger Pair 2 Kamat Hotels (India) Limited 1.9907 0.358 -0.8233 0.8127 -2.9124 1.2657 -1.013 5 Post and Pre Merger Pair 3 Hotel Leela Ventures Limited 5 1.1433 4.9791 2.0327 -4.0819 6.3685 0.562 0.598 Post and Pre Merger Pair 4 Indian Hotels Company 0.801 5 1.5300 4.6794 1.9103 -3.3807 6.4407 0.460 Limited Post and Pre Merger Pair 5 Taj G V K Hotels and Resorts 5 0.0750 9.4570 3.8608 -9.8495 9.9995 0.019 0.985 Limited Post and Pre Merger Pair 6 Thomas Cook (India) Limited 5 4.2816 2.6972 1.1011 1.4510 7.1122 3.888 0.012 Post and Pre Merger
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 59 ISSN No. 2278-8379 Tourism Innovations Creating Shareholders Wealth Through Mergers and Acquisitions:... Table VIII: Paired Sample Test Results for Net Profit Margin Ratio
95% Confidence Inter- Std. Devia- Std. Error val of the Difference Sig. Mean t df tion Mean (2-tailed) Lower Upper
Pair 1 EIH Associated Hotels -17.9633 6.4279 2.6241 -24.7090 -11.2176 -6.845 5 0.001 Limited Post and Pre Merger
Pair 2 Kamat Hotels (India) 7.2213 2.9481 -10.8516 4.3050 -1.110 0.317 -3.2733 5 Limited Post and Pre Merger
Pair 3 Hotel Leela Ventures 5 8.8983 42.7171 17.4392 -35.9306 53.7272 0.510 0.632 Limited Post and Pre Merger
Pair 4 Indian Hotels Com- 5 pany Limited Post and Pre 4.6750 13.3675 5.4572 -9.3534 18.7034 0.857 0.431 Merger Pair 5 Taj G V K Hotels and 5 Resorts Limited Post and Pre -0.6066 13.7217 5.6018 -15.0067 13.7934 -0.108 0.918 Merger
Pair 6 Thomas Cook (India) Lim- 5 5.8650 3.1240 1.2754 2.5864 9.1435 4.599 0.006 ited Post and Pre Merger
Table IX: Paired Sample Test Results for Asset Turnover Ratio
Pair 1 EIH Associated Hotels Limited Post -0.1483 0.0256 0.0104 -0.1752 -0.1214 -14.179 5 0 .000 and Pre Merger
Pair 2 Kamat Hotels (India) Limited 0.0416 0.0462 0.0188 -0.0068 0.0901 2.208 0.078 5 Post and Pre Merger
Pair 3 Hotel Leela Ventures Limited 5 0.0233 0.0531 0.0217 -0.0324 0.0791 1.075 0.331 Post and Pre Merger
Pair 4 Indian Hotels Company Limited 5 0.0416 0.0793 0.0324 -0.0416 0.1249 1.286 0.255 Post and Pre Merger
Pair 5 Taj G V K Hotels and Resorts 5 0.0500 0.1378 0.0562 0-.0946 0.1946 0.889 0.415 Limited Post and Pre Merger
Pair 6 Thomas Cook (India) Limited Post 5 0.1133 0.1065 0.0434 0.0015 0.2251 2.606 0.048 and Pre Merger
Vol. 10, No. 1, February, 2020 60 ISSN No. 2278-8379
Indian Tourism & Hospitality Congress
An Association of Indian Tourism and Hospitality Academics
Contact Details
All the members of Indian Tourism Congress are requested to visit page ..members.. to check their contact details. If you want to change the details then just mail your name, address, email and contact number to [email protected]
Indian Tourism Congress conveys its sincere thanks for making 4th International Conference at Taskent (Uzbekistan) a successful event.
Prof. Sandeep Kulshreshtha
Publications by Indian Tourism Congress
On the occasion of its fourth international conference, Indian Tourism Congress has planned several activities like
a) Publication of book b) Research journal and c) Newsletter
The detail of these is given below:
1. RE: CONTRIBUTION FOR EDITED BOOK (with ISBN number)
As informed to you earlier also that Indian Tourism Congress is planning to bring out a pre- conference edited book on the occasion of its forthcoming international conference.
Therefore you all are requested to contribute your research papers/ research notes/ case studies/ brief research notes for the book. Since we intend to bring this book by the end of May hence you are requested to send your contribution as per the guidelines given in conference announcement.
Last date of submission of full length paper 20 May 2012.
2. RE: ITC RESEARCH JOURNAL (with ISSN number)
On the occasion of its international conference, ITC is planning to come out with its research journal TOURISM INNOVATIONS – AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF INDIAN TOURISM CONGRESS, which is a referred tourism research Journal focusing on academic perspectives in Tourism. Emphasizing an integrated approach to tourism in terms of tourism being an inter-disciplinary field, the journal focuses on various aspects of tourism like, management, tourism planning, particular forms of tourism (adventure, religious, ethnic, cultural, conventional, wilderness, heritage etc), tourism and environment relationship, sustainable tourism development and tourism policy making. Papers on any aspect related to tourism are encouraged for this journal.
The objective of journal is to have a comprehensive collection in various areas related to tourism management and development and to disseminate knowledge and information on tourism. The journal has the condition for publication that manuscripts submitted to this journal should not have been published or will not be simultaneously published elsewhere. The editorial board reserves the right to edit the contributions or send them back to the authors for alteration. Thereafter the publication of the papers will be subject to the final approval of the editorial board comprising members from within and outside of India.
The submissions should follow the format as hereunder:
• Abstract – with atleast 3 keywords • Introduction • Background • Methodology • Discussion on results • Conclusion • Future implications of study • References
Please note that all referencing is required to be done starting with surnames in alphabetical order and needs to strictly as per attached APA 6 format style.
Papers sent back for revision should be revised in one time, after the first comments of the Reviewers (if any). The one time revised manuscript if not corrected in the first instance will not be sent for any second revision. It will be considered not accepted.
Send your papers for research journal on [email protected]
2. RE: ITC NEWSLETTER
It also gives us immense pleasure to inform you that the new issue of news letter of Indian Tourism Congress will be published by the end of May, 2012. Therefore, I request you to send in your inputs (in form of short news) related to:
i) News, Events & Activities (Academic & Extra-curricular Activities) performed by the your institute ii) New initiatives taken by the institutes iii) Special achievements by faculty. iv) Contribution from members in the form of articles, write ups and /or News in pictures for the members’ gallery. v) Any forthcoming events of importance.
Kindly put in the activities those have been performed in the year 2011-12. Please forward all the entries positively by 25 May 2012 at [email protected]
S.No. Activity Contact Last date 1 Conference Registration DUS HOLIDAYS 3rd May 2012 2 International Research Journal [email protected] 20th May 2012 3 Edited Book [email protected] 20th May 2012 4 ITC Newsletter [email protected] 25th May 2012
World Tourism Day
On the occassion of “World Tourism Day’. Indian Tourism Congress is extended best wishes to all members.
Thanks for being a part of tourism fraternity.
9th National Tourism Conference
Dear Colleagues,
We are pleased to announce that 9th National Tourism Conference of Indian Tourism Congress will be held at Tezpur University, Tezpur, Assam on 06-08 January, 2012.
Theme: Sustainable Tourism: Issues and Challenges
Sub Themes:
• Sustainable Tourism-theory & practices
• Destination Planning
• Tourism Product Development & Sustainable Tourism
• Financial strategy for Sustainable Tourism
• Sustainable Tourism and Entrepreneurship Development
• HR issues in Sustainable Tourism
• Development of Sustainable Tourism in North-East India
Department of Business Administration, Tezpur University (A Central University),
Registration fee (For ITC Members) :
On or Before Nov. 1, 2011 After Nov. 1, 2011
For Delegate Rs. 2,000/- Rs. 3,000/-
Extra Person Rs.2,000/- Rs. 3,000/-
An additional fee of Rs. 500/- is to be paid by non ITC members (not applicable for accompanying person)
The registration fee should be payable by Demand Draft favouring “Management Development Cell, Tezpur University” payable at Tezpur. The amount can also be paid by bank transfer to Account Number 10501585655, Name of Account: Management Development Cell, Name of Bank & Branch:
State Bank of India, Tezpur, IFS Code: SBI IN 0000195 RTGS/MICR Code: 784002002. In case of bank transfer, please mention the transaction id.
An advance copy of registration form may kindly be submitted by clicking the link
https://spreadsheets.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dFhyS1BHUHAyNjZaUW84SGhYZHNKaWc6MQ In case of problem in opening, please copy the link and paste in a new window
Contributions
Prospective participants are invited to submit abstracts of 200-300 words in MS Word by e-mail to [email protected]. The abstract should contain author’s name, affiliation, address for communication, fax number and e-mail address. The name of the presenting author should be underlined. All abstract must be supplied in English and deadline for submission is September 29, 2011. The presenting author will be notified by October 15, 2011. Full papers should be submitted by November 20, 2011. Manuscript style will be communicated to authors whose abstracts are accepted for presentation in the Congress.
Tentative Programme
05 January, 2012 Thursday Arrival, registration, Dinner
06 January, 2012 Friday Inauguration, Technical Session, a half day local tour after lunch, a Cultural evening, and followed by buffet dinner.
07 January, 2012 Saturday Technical Sessions and visit to Kaziranga National Park (KNP) for night stay
08, January, 2012 Sunday Excursion at KNP, Valedictory Session, Departure after Lunch.
Organizing Committee:
Prof. Mihir Kanti Chaudhuri, Vice Chancellor, Tezpur University (TU) – Patron
Prof. Manjula Chaudhary, Director, IITTM, and President ITC – Patron
Prof. Mrinmoy K. Sarma, Dean, School of Management Sciences, TU – Advisor
Prof. Sandeep Kulshrestha, Sr. Vice President, ITC – Advisor
Prof. S.P. Bansal, Secretary General, ITC – Advisor
Prof. Subhrangshu Sekhar Sarkar, Head, Depart. of Business Administration, TU- Convenor
Dr. Chandan Goswami – Faculty in-charge
Prof. (Mrs.) Chandana Goswami – Member
Prof. Debabrata Das – Member
Dr. Papori Baruah – Member
Dr. Tridib Ranjan Sarma – Member
Dr. Anjan Bhuyan – Member
Ms. Heera Barpujary – Member
Mr. Arup Roy – Member
Dr. Kakali Mahanta – Member
Dr. Runumi Das – Member
Mr. Mridul Dutta – Member
Mr. Tarunjyoti Borah – Member
Mr. Arjun Das – Member
Mr. Suren Borah – Office Bearer
Contact Details:
Tezpur University
Prof. Subhrangshu Sekhar Sarkar,
Professor & Head, Department of Business Administration
Assam – 784 028
e-mail: [email protected]
Telefax: +91 3712 267128 (O) 221067 (R)
cell: +919435081446, +918486570909
Indian Tourism Congress
Prof. S.P. Bansal
Secretary General, Indian Tourism Congress,
Director, Institute of Vocational (Tourism) Studies,
Department of Tourism (MTA),Himachal Pradesh University,
Summer Hill’ Shimla (H.P.), India, 171005
e-mail: [email protected]
Telefax- +91 177 2633251 (O),2841389 (R)
+91 98160 41389 (Mobile)
Dear Colleagues
Conference organising committee of Indian Tourism Congress would like to thank all the delegates for making 3rd International Conference at Colombo a grand success.
Warm Regards
Abstracts- Colombo Conference
Title: International Tourism Scenario Author(s): Lalit K. Bansal and Prashant Gautam
Abstract Something has really happened at global level, that’s why everybody is looking at tourism with different set of eyes. People, villages, towns, districts, states, regions, countries and even continents are looking at tourism to fight with their problems of unemployment, poverty, rural & urban development, infrastructural development. Further to this countries and states are looking at tourism to improve their image so that they can attract a large number of investors. Developing countries like India are spending huge amount of money in organizing some events like commonwealth games just for the image building and increasing number of tourists. This tourism has proved itself in past also as an activity, which is having the capacity to infuse the benefits even to the remotest areas and poorest people of society. Paper concluded that an unprecedented combination of negative factors has affected the tourism industry in recent past as never before and its future will be made of continuous adaptation to the changing environment. However, international tourism has not declined, showing its resilience and ability to rebound after crises. Each year, since 2001, some 700-800 million people have visited another country. The perspectives for 2011 and beyond, with a brighter economic outlook and a pent-up demand for travel, are reasonably positive. According to the forecast prepared by UNWTO at the beginning of the year 2011, international tourist arrivals are projected to increase by some 4% to 5% in 2011. The impact of recent developments in North Africa and the Middle East, as well as the tragic earthquake and tsunami that hit Japan in March, are not expected to substantially affect this projected growth. As per the expert panel of World Tourism Organisation, results for North East Asia, North Africa and the Middle East are below initial forecasts, but destinations in Europe and South America are so far performing better than anticipated. On the whole, and as in previous similar situations, a temporary redistribution of traffic, together with an increase in intra-regional travel as opposed to interregional, is likely to occur. Key words: Tourism Development, WTO regions, Intra regional travel.
Title: Tourism Perspectives in South-Asian Region Author(s): P.K. Yadav, P.B. Singh and Ritesh Kumar Saxena
Abstract Travel and tourism is one of the biggest industries in the World in terms of gross output and value added, capital investment, employment and tax contributions. At its core, tourism is primarily about human activity in which a tourist travels from originating area to a destination for pleasure, culture, health, pilgrimage, business etc. A notable feature of international tourism growth has been the gradual shift in the preference for destinations, from Europe and North America to South- Asia. Geographically, ecologically and culturally diverse South Asian region is very attractive to International tourists. Established on December 8, 1985, South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation, popularly known as SAARC, are home to nearly 1.5 billion people or about 22% of world’s population. This esteem group is the one combined vision of eight different countries of South- Asia like India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bhutan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Maldives. Its tourism resources range from the World’s highest mountains peaks, colorful cultures, ancient history and picturesque scenery in Nepal, to the vast cultural, physical diversity and immense scenic beauty of India, one of the major South-Asian tourist destination, the world’s largest mangrove forest, chain of great rivers and clear lakes surrounded by green hills, exotic tropical rain forests and beautiful green tea gardens of Bangladesh, serene and breathtaking mountain kingdom together with Buddhism Monastries of Bhutan, exotic beaches, rich cultural heritage and majestic landscape of island country Srilanka, sun-kissed beaches, crystal clear lagoons with coloured corols and exquisite marine life surrounded with palm fringed of Maldives, excavated sites at Mohanjodaro- Harrappa, the architectural monuments of the Mughals, snowcapped karakoram ranges, horse safari of Pakistan are the illustrious tourist attractions of South-Asian region. According to WTO (World Tourism Organization) statistics, South Asia is responsible for 6.8% to 7% of International arrivals. In terms of product diversification South Asia is unique with a 2500 year old cultural heritage and multi- faceted natural splendor, in spite of being such a draw in tourist spots and destinations South-Asia fails to lure the tourists in comparison to other regions. If one take an example of a tourist He/she will like to visit New Zealand, US, Switzerland, etc because of the lack of awareness about the tourists spots and destinations of South Asian region. As per WTO by 2020 the top three receiving regions will be Europe (717 million tourists), East Asia and the Pacific (397 million) and the Americas (282 million), followed by Africa, the Middle East and South Asia. South Asian region can be benefited by both international and intra regional tourism. The treasures hidden in the region are not sufficiently exposed to the outer world yet. The present paper aims on what need to be done and to focus for making South-Asian region an unequaled identity through tourism globally. Expediting implementation of tourism projects, development of integrated tourism circuits, rural destinations, forming new strategies for promotions and meeting the global standards will facilitate this region to develop. The tourism development needs to be pursued with a focus on sustainability, by promoting lesser known tourist spots and destinations and controlling the associated problems of environmental, ecological hazard and cultural degradation. Key Words: South Asia, Tourism Products, Sustainability
Title: Measuring Regional Sustainable Tourism : Case Analysis of South Asian Countries Author(s): Surabhi Srivastava
Abstract Regional tourism within developing countries is a growing phenomenon. Yet this aspect has been largely neglected in social science research as well as tourism planning. the paper suggests that a basic appreciation of the prospects of regional tourism is not enough to produce perceptible benefits. Regional tourism development is occurring in a haphazard manner, with little attention to managing existing socio-economic inequalities and centre-periphery relations. This paper argues and analyses the tools and indicators which may affect the sustainability of regional tourism. The paper provides an outline about the measurement of regional sustainibility with the case analysis of South Asian region. The paper is based primarily on the review of secondary literature readily available to the author combined with a few documents obtained directly from different regional organizations or through Internet search. Key Words: Regional, Sustainable, South Asian , Measurable, Carrying capacity,
Title: Spiritual Holiday Eco-Tourism to promote Peace, Prosperity and Consensus in India and Neighbor Author(s): Chiranjib Kumar Choudhary and Aditi Choudhary
Abstract Spiritual Holiday Eco-Tourism (SHET) has been looked upon in different dimensions since the inception of the word “tourism” on this human dominated earth which is full of sorrows, frustrations, selfishness, and affected by blind development of science and technology knowingly or unknowingly its consequences. New travel patterns reflect changes in consumer behaviour, economic strength of source markets, new destinations, and political realignments. Shifts to North-South tourist flows are occurring in Asia (towards ASEAN countries, Australia and the Pacific Islands.) Community interest and tourism must work together for any chance of long term success. In long term, it is not useful to have isolated tourist enclaves. The most rewarding forms of tourism are those that involve both residents and tourists. “Rewarding” means both in terms of the visitor and resident experiences and the economic viability to the developer. Paper reaches on the conclusion that small business development opportunities, not just jobs, will be an increasingly important element of the community benefit package. The tourism industry should encourage and promote entrepreneurship and privatization particularly at the local level. Key Words: Spiritual Holiday Eco-Tourism (SHET), Travel Patterns, Entrepreneurship.
Title: Tourism Linkages between India and Sri Lanka Author(s): Saurabh Dixit and C.S. Barua
Abstract Present paper takes a case of tourism linkages between India and Srilanka. It is noted that tourism forms an important link between India and Sri Lanka and India is the largest source market for Sri Lankan tourism. More than 1,25,000 Indian tourists visited Sri Lanka in 2010, forming about 20% of the total tourist inflow in Sri Lanka. Both the countries share legacy through cultural, intellectual, linguistic intercourse. Both countries also shared civilization and cultural heritage and evolved out as unique tourism product. There has been very long people to people interaction. India and Sri Lanka have a number of similarities and could promote tourism jointly to harness potential tourist’s traffic in this region i.e. South Asia. Paper reaches on the conclusion that diplomatic relations catalyzed by informal relationship could help to promote Indo-Lanka tourism in positive direction. We have already seen potential linkages and how to convert linkages into tangible products. Key Words: Tourism linkages, India, Srilanka, Tourism Products, Influencing factors.
Title: Travel Barriers and the Disabled: Some explanations in Indian context Author(s): Sutheeshna Babu. S, Sandeep Kulshreshtha and Manjula Chaudhary
The purpose of this paper is to evolve better understanding of the major travel barriers of disabled tourists specific to Indian context. Because, firstly, there is a growing appreciation that providing and facilitating recreation and tourism needs of people with disabilities is legal requirement. It is equally an important subject of rights enshrined under different national and international legal and statutory stipulations. Secondly, it is rooted in good economics which many studies including UNESCAP have already established. Paper reaches on the conclusion that the path for development of accessible tourism is challenging and one will have to negotiate many culpable challenges and bottlenecks. Key Words: Travel Barriers, Disability, Accessible Tourism
Title: Tourism Impacts, Community Development and Sustainability in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh: A Stakeholders Perspective Author(s): S.P. Bansal and Jaswinder Kumar
Abstract Tourism is one of the growing industry in Himachal Pradesh. Its high growth and development rates, considerable amount of employment generation, infrastructure development actively affecting various sectors of economy which positively contributing to the social and economic development of the state. There are various issues to be taken into consideration regarding the sustainability of tourism in the state in the long term. Tourism impacts in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh are widely distributed in terms of economic, social and environmental/ physical aspects. In addition there are impacts on population structure, transformation of forms and types of occupations, transformation of values, influence on traditional lifestyle, and modification of consumption patterns, and benefits to tourists. Thus there is need to develop the sustainability of tourism impacts for which the synchronized efforts of tourism stakeholders is required. This paper studies the perception and opinion of tourism stakeholders about tourism impacts and related issues of community development in selected destinations of Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. This paper then identifies the emergent need of stakeholder’s synchronization for sustainable tourism development. Key Words: Himachal Pradesh, Kullu, Tourism Stakeholders
Title: Information Technology for Customer Experience in Aviation Industry : A Convergence Approach Author(s): Vinay Chauhan
Abstract Tourism services being largely intangible in nature stand to gain a lot from technology. Industry is dominated by the need to provide fast and accurate information to the consumer. The IT is especially relevant to tourism since it enables knowledge about the consumer to be gathered, as well as vice versa. Information Technology is used as a strategic tool to meet competitive advantage and how it is rapidly becoming a necessary ingredient for achieving quality in the service industry leading to a perfect customer experience. The present research examines the relationship between IT and customer experience and develops a strategic model for leveraging Customer experience using a convergence approach. Keywords: Tourism, Information Technology, Customer Experience, Aviation and Convergence.
Title: Creative Tourism: the cultural way Author(s): Adyasha Das
Abstract Creative tourism, considered to be a new-generation of tourism is based on a creative collaboration between tourists and hosts to develop engaging, fulfilling experiences, offering visitors creative pursuits. It provides visitors the opportunity to develop their creative potential through active participation in learning experiences which are characteristic of the holiday destination where they are undertaken (Richards and Raymond, 2000:18). Thoughan off-shoot of the conventional cultural tourism, creative tourism has a distinct character of its own. Cultural tourism is focused on iconic buildings, mega events, dynamic historic heritage, vibrant cultural life at a destination etc. Creative tourism is related to the need for experiencing the creative process – from textile weaving in the Mapuche regions of Chile to icon-painting in Russia, Odissi recitals in Odisha or reviving strong traditions. As creative tourism doesn’t require impressive historic buildings, UNESCO lists or famous events, its destinations extend from Berlin and Austria to small villages along the Ganges river and the high planes of Peru. This geographical extension benefits far-flung communities in developing viable cultural tourism models. Creative tourism directly contributes to the local economy not only through tourism exports, but through direct financial contribution to the local creative industries and the supporting local infrastructure.Despite obvious differences, the existing business model for creative tourism indicates that any destination of cultural tourism can profit from creative tourism. This merger of different forms of tourism finds very fertile ground through creative tourism activities: creative and adventure tourism, cultural and creative tourism, archaeology tourism and creative tourism, wine & gourmet tourism and creative tourism, etc. Creative tourists have distinctive experiences that blur the boundaries between everyday and touristic life. These experiences challenge conventional typologies of the tourist experience. The points of discussion would include: • Enhancing the economy through creative tourism • Creative tourism experience • The relationship between enrichment, cultural and creative tourism • The relationship between the creative industries and tourism Key Words: Creative Tourism; cultural; enrichment; business model
Title: Problems and Prospects of increasing the Tourism Yield in Uttrakhand Region Author(s): P.K. Yadav, Vivek Mittal and Charu Yadav
Abstract Tourism is one of the fastest growing industries in the world. India is the fifth most attractive destination in terms of investment opportunities. (IL &FS, 2007). In South Asia, India accounts for 65.8 % of the regional tourism receipts. Direct contribution to the GDP is 2 % whereas the overall contribution of tourism sector is 5.3 %. In India Uttrakhand has the big potential to be developed as the prime tourist destination. Uttaranchal has a total area of 53,485 km with 34,661 km under forests. Total area coming under protected areas is 6,479 km of which 4,083 km2 covering six National Parks and 2,396 km covering six Wildlife Sanctuaries. Uttaranchal is a state with breath taking scenic beauty; charismatic wildlife like Asian elephant, Himalayan Musk deer, Himalayan tahr, bharal, tiger and snow leopard; fascinating birds particularly pheasants such as Himalayan monal, Satyr tragopan and other birds like white-crested laughing thrushes. Uttrakhand is bestowed with natural beauty, Lakes, Mountain Peaks, Rivers, Streams, Snow Fall, Wild Life, Adventure, Pilgrimage, Weather, Flowers etc. Uttrakhand is blessed with so much diverse places that it can be developed as prime destination in Asia for almost all types of tourism like MICE Tourism, Health Tourism, Medical Tourism, Eco- Tourism, Adventure Tourism, Honeymoon Tourism, Heritage Tourism, Sports Tourism, Education Tourism, Wild Life Tourism, Biosphere Tourism etc. But unfortunately Uttrakhand is known for Pilgrimage Tourism and at a Pilgramage Destination “people come , see and don’t spend. In recent years tourist destinations have shifted their marketing focus, away from simply increasing the number of tourists to enhancing the ‘quality’ associated with tourism growth. The way to increase quality is often articulated as moving away from mass tourism, with low expenditure and profit margins per visitor, and moving towards ‘high yield’ tourism with high per capita spending. Thus, the objective of the present paper is to develop a model to increase the per capita spending and average night stay of the tourist, so that without increasing the load on the natural resources the income and the living standards of the people of Uttrakhand can be increased. Key Words: South Asia, Uttrakhand, Tourism Yield
Title: Impact Assessment of eco-Tourism on Visitors and the Host Community around Keoladeo National Park, Bharatpur, Rajasthan Author(s): U. N. Shukla and Altaf Ahmad Lone
Abstract Tourism is an industry which occurs at destination areas, with different natural or man made attractions to attract non-local people. Ecotourism means responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well being of local people. Tourism and environment are inter-related, as tourism requires a good natural environment; similarly a tourist destination desires a controlled, disciplined and regulated tourism to sustain. Environmental degradation can lead to decline in tourism, while uncontrolled tourism leads to environmental hazards. Here we are entrusted to find out the impacts of tourism development on visitors and the host community of the destination, with special reference to world renowned Keoladeo Wetland in northern India, which is situated on the extreme western edge of the Gangetic basin, at an elevation of 174 m above MSL. Keoladeo National Park has been one of the most linked places of ecotourism in Rajasthan, because of its exceptional birdlife. Having been interested in assessment of ecotourism in terms of its objectives; i.e. encouragement towards protection and growth in the quantity and quality of park wetland and environment and betterment of the local people, this study attempts to examine its impacts on visitors, environment and economical benefits to local people at Keoladeo National Park due to the tourism growth over the years. It has been found that the ecotourism at this park has brought significant impact on all of them in terms of its ultimate objective. Key words: Eco-tourism, Host Community, Visitors, Impacts and Assessment.
Title: Prospects of Second Home Tourism: A Spatio-Temporal Approach Author(s): Ashok Aima, Jaya Bhasin and Ahsan Ul Haq
Abstract Off late Tourism industry all over the world is experiencing a new development that is Second Home Tourism. It is new innovation which has created new opportunities for all the stakeholders. In today’s global environment of increased wealth and disposable income, leisure time and cheap and accessible transportation routes, second homes have become a key component of the tourism and mobility industries (Hall & Muller, 2004). Murphy, 1986, describes second homes very broadly as follows: a privately owned dwelling which provide self catering vacations to its owners, as well as income to the host community. (Murphy, 1986). Second home tourism is also difficult to define, and there is some debate about the issue. Hall and Muller suggest that such terms as residential tourism and summer migration are synonymous with second home tourism (Hall & Muller, 2004), while other authors such as Pedro (2006) disagree. Authors such as Cohen (1974) tend to agree with Pedro, and go further by defining tourists by non-recurrence to a single place. As such, Cohen argues that second home owners who return to the same destination year after year can be considered to be marginal tourists at best (Girard & Gartner, Second Home Second View- Host Community Perceptions, 1993). This paper is concerned with the potential of Second Home Tourism in Jammu and Kashmir State. Since second home development could have positive and negative social, cultural, economical and environmental impacts for local residents, planning policies should take into consideration public opinions and preferences for future planning and developments. The paper adopts time and space bound approach to find out the opportunities available for the Second Home Tourism. Main research question which this paper addresses is that what are the perceived social, economic and environmental impacts of second home tourism in the rural areas of Jammu and Kashmir? Key Words: Second Home Tourism, Economic Development, Future Planning.
Title: Perception of Travel and Tourism Service Providers Towards Yoga Tourism in India Author(s): Charu Sheela Yadav and Archana P. Vyas
Abstract Yoga is one of the most extra ordinary spiritual sciences that mankind has ever discovered. Yogic methods cover the entire field of our existence- from physical sensory, emotional, mental and spiritual to the highest self realization. It includes all methods of higher evolution in humanity- physical postures, ethical disciplines, breath control, sensory methods, affirmation, prayer, mantra and complex meditative disciplines. The term yoga is derived from a Sanskrit word meaning ‘to join together’. The ultimate aim of yoga is it to unite the human soul with the universal sprit. In this paper s study of the various packages offered in and around Rishikesh by various hotels, resorts and destination Spa help us to understand that several other elements like Ayurveda, Reiki or any other alternative therapies are combined to make the Yoga package more attractive, where as in Ashrams like Parmarth Niketan etc, Yoga is the only aim of the tourist. The tourists visiting the ashrams are faithful followers of Yoga where as the ones who take up Yoga packages at different resorts, retreats etc are looking for a combination of Yoga and relaxation. The packages in Kerala are more centered around Ayurveda which constitute their main motivation of travel, here Yoga is added to make it more attractive and saleable. It is interesting to know how Ayurveda and Yoga become complimentary to each other even in the process of designing packages to attract the tourist. It is concluded that Yoga Tourism has contributed greatly towards the growth of tourism and travel in India. There is a positive perception towards its growth in future too. Since India is the land of origin of Yoga, it has more powers to capitalise Yoga as a resource for niche Tourism. As Yoga Tourism is a part of the New Age Tourism, its promotion will only enhance the revenue generation possibilities and promote India’s cultural heritage. Key Words: Yoga Tourism, Rishikesh, Niche Tourism
Title: Status of Medical Tourism in India – A Critical Analysis Author(s): Madhuri Sawant and Rajesh Ragde
Abstract Ministry of Tourism, Government of India has taken several steps to promote India as a medical tourism destination. This paper presents a critical analysis of the concept of medical tourism, the present status of medical tourism in India and its socio-economic aspects. The paper concludes with ethical concerns in the practice of medical tourism. Key words: medical tourism, health care, ethics, socio-economic aspects
Title: Homestay Tourism in India: Factors that define homestay development Author(s): Poornima Ravi
Abstract Homestays originally were accommodations provided by native families to foreign students, in order to learn a new language by staying with them, mostly in English speaking countries and Europe. The concept has been redefined in Asia and Asia-Pacific countries like Malaysia, India, Indonesia’s Losmen concept, China’s Minju Kezhan, New Zealand and Fiji, in a form akin to the bed and breakfast style with short length of stay and cultural experience is the centrifugal attraction. The purpose of this research was to understand the development of homestays not merely as an accommodation but a form of tourism in itself, taking India as a case study. Data was collected from Government acts and policies, press articles, interviews and field visits conducted at Coorg and Kottayam. Using the Grounded theory approach, it is revealed that the most important factors in a homestay experience are host-guest relationship, traditional food and activities. Interviewees and policy/schemes state that it is necessary for the host family to live in the homestay. Contrary to this, eight unregistered home-stays in Coorg were found where there is no host family or sharing of common living space. A mushroom growth of these establishments is witnessed in Karnataka and Kerala. The major causes were found to be the lack of public awareness and insufficient exercising of the ‘Incredible India Bread & Breakfast Establishments Act’ (Act governing homestay tourism in India) in which registration is not made mandatory. This leads to the question of authenticity and safety of the tourist’s experience, since registered homestays have to be certified by the local authority, apart from complying with the rules of the policy document. As for homestay development, different types of homestays have evolved in India, such as heritagestay, villagestay/ruralstay, farmstay, urbanstay and plantatationstay/estatestay. Homestays provide short-term tourism accommodation, offering in-vivo hospitality experience and mutual cultural exchange takes place between the hosts and guest. Keywords: Homestay tourism, authenticity, Incredible India Bread and Breakfast Act, host-guest relationship, types of homestays
Title: An Assessment of Financial Performance of Palace on Wheels Author(s): Ashok Singh Rathore and Lokeshver Singh Jodhana
Abstract The Palace on Wheels is one of the most luxurious and prestigious trains of the world. The comforts and facilities offered on board the Palace on Wheels are unparallel and difficult to be found on any other trains in the world. Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation collaborated with Indian Railways to give travellers a royal experience aboard “Palace on Wheels”. It was started in the year 1982. Presently this royal train is rated as one of the ten most luxurious trains of the world. The route of golden triangle (New Delhi – Jaipur – Agra) is covered by this train. The study has used secondary data to analyze the profitability and tourist arrivals in palace on wheels. The study reveals that profitability of palace on wheels has increased with increase in no. of tourists travelling on palace on wheels. The market share of Palace on Wheels is declining with increase in no. of similar trains. Towards end, the study forecasts number of tourists visiting Palace on Wheels in the year 2010. Key words: Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC), Palace on Wheels (POW), Financial Performance.
Title: Training and Development Practices in Budget Hotels: a comparative study Author(s): Mohinder Chand and Ankush Ambardar
Abstract This paper has two fold purposes: to investigate training and development practices in budget hotels (chain and individual) and to study the relationship between training & development practices and hotel characteristics. The survey was done in 170 budget-chain and budget-individual hotels in India and was found that budget-chain hotels followed comparable practices and at the same time it was visualised that other budget-individual hotel properties were not following the practices up to the mark. It was even found that many of such budget-individual hotels do not have a training department to meet such requirements. The empirical analysis provides evidence that budget-chain hotel on average use more sophisticated training and development practices than budget-individual hotels do. However, our results suggest that the difference between budget-chain and budget-individual hotels is smaller than might have been expected based upon the differences in the level of organisational characteristics between both organisations, at least with respect to the use of training and development practices. The results of the proposed study will help to assess the relationship between training & development practices in budget-chain and budget-individual hotels. Keywords: – development, performance, satisfaction, training,
Title: Six Sigma and the IHMs Author(s): J.K.Mangaraj
Abstract Quite often educational institutes receive the feedback from the hotel Industry that the Institutes of hotel management do not produce quality manpower. This repeated complaint from the Industry really worries the academic institutes. The complaints are many and different. This has led to have an insight of other professional educational Institutes like the IITs and IIMs. Paper tried to find out whether the industry has the same view about the IITs & IIMs. The 1st IIT was established in the year 1951 and the 1st IIM was established in the year 1961. The 1st IHM was established in Mumbai in 1954. Out of these mentioned educational institutes , IITs and IIMs have established themselves at the International level as the centres of excellence since then. But the IHMs are yet to achieve the same recognition & excellence that the IITs and IIMs have achieved. The IITs & the IIMs have started with the graduate programmes and went on to add post graduate programmes and subsequently Ph D programmes. But IHMs had started with 03yrs diploma programme and could not even upgraded in to 4 yrs degree programme, the masters programme still struggling to find its identity in the hotel industry. While analyzing the complaints of the Industry about the quality products from IHM, the concept of Six Sigma came to mind. Present paper reached on the conclusion that if the concept of Six Sigma can be applied to few hotels then why not it should be applied to the IHMs so that the deficiencies if any in producing quality manpower can be minimized or eliminated. Key Words: Six Sigma Model, IHMs, Quality Management.
Title: Local Handicrafts: A Potential Tool for Poverty Alleviation through Tourism Author(s): Nisha Saha
Abstract Tourists, hardly leave a tourist destination without buying a souvenir for their near and dear ones to take back at his or her home. This segment of Tourism product can become a power-packed tool for poverty alleviation in developing countries like the SAARC Nations. The geographical belt of South Asia is rich in heritage, ethnicity, culture and artifacts, but may be poor otherwise. Although the traditional handicrafts are a source of awe for the entire globe, but remains less explored a subject for many a tourist researchers and economist as a tool for poverty alleviation to be considered as a part of tourism industry. This research paper tries to identify these local handicrafts not only as a source of revenue generation but also a pathway of organizing the sector for pro-poor tourism. It tries to find out, whether artisans, and local road side retailers of handicrafts are presently earning enough benefits from tourists or else tourism industry, if no, than what are the problems, they are facing followed by modest suggestions as recommendations. The methodology followed is quanti-qualitative in nature. Although the primary data research locale is the metropolitan and capital city of West Bengal, Kolkata, but can be implemented in any of such similar cities of South Asian countries. Primary data was collected in form of structured questionnaire (from tourists and local retailers of handicrafts) and in-depth interview was collected from bureaucrats and other administrative heads. The analysis involves simple statistical as well as qualitative tools. Keyword: Pro-Poor Tourism, SAARC Nations, Heritage, Poverty Alleviation, Local handicrafts.
Title: Sustainable Tourism Development and Kaizen Initiatives for Infrastructure Development in Uttarakhand: A Critical Review Author(s): Shantanu Kumar Sahu, and C.K. Singh
Abstract Environment is defined as a life supporting mechanism spread around living organism. Living beings feed, thrive and grow on the resources. Environment as a resource constitutes an important part in economic development of a country. In the recent era, the biosphere hangs in a delicate balance between the technological advancement of human beings and environmental destruction. Thus, a compromising scientific approach for making a balance between human progress and least environmental degradation is almost acceptable to all the environmentalists in the globe. Environmental problems are now a globe issue and none is unaware of current human worry round the globe. Sustainable development has become a cliché over the past two decades which offered a challenge to find the unifying principle for human organization. This paper is an effort to understand the need for sustainable tourism development with the help of kaizen approach. Keywords: Sustainable development, Environmental control measures, Kaizen Approach.
Title: Rural Tourism and Community Development: A case study of Andhra Pradesh Author(s): P. Siva Sankara Reddy and P. Aparna
Abstract Rural tourism aims to provide the discerning traveler with a multitude of distinctive, first –hand experiences in an interactive, informative and organic setting in Rural Andhra Pradesh. Community based rural tourism is envisaged to provide sustainable livelihoods and strengthen rural economy through the preservation and promotion of rural craft, culture, heritage and environment in their natural forms by offering an enhanced choice to visitors seeking a unique experience, thus increasing awareness and exposure to rural way of life across the state while improving the quality of life of the village communities, encouraging gender equity and community ownership through an equal partnership between hosts and tourists leading to overall holistic development through tourism. , Rural Andhra Pradesh is a fascinating canvas of myriad colours, cultures and customs. The people of Andhra Pradesh have patronized a host of arts and crafts which not only enriched the milieu but also kept the traditions alive through the ages. Andhra Pradesh Handicrafts represents perhaps the oldest tradition of living culture offering creative expression of all segments of the population. Andhra Pradesh is the treasure of fascinating Handicrafts, each unique in their style, concept, form and expression, that has made a name for themselves the world over. The evolution of design, colour and form embodied in our handicrafts is a story of experiment and evolution through centuries, perfected through the passage of time. The process of manufacturing Nirmal gold which never tarnishes, the magic blackening of bidriware, the selection of punki wood for the toys ,the polishing of lacquered articles with Kewara leaves, and the manufacture of carpets from sheep-hair are emboldening developments in each craft over long periods in its history. Identifying Handicrafts as one of the major components of Rural Tourism, the paper aims to study and submit how rural tourism can be effectively promoted through handicrafts as a means and thereby fulfilling the desired objectives of promoting rural tourism in Andhra Pradesh.
Title: Mass Tourism Vs Niche Tourism- A Contemporary Approach to Tourism Development Author(s): Ashok Aima, Jaya Bhasin and Aubid Hussain Parrey
Abstract It is widely accepted that Tourism is gaining global importance especially with the beginning of 21st century and is in a very dynamic mode with regard to its changing trends. In compliance with this trend, Mass Tourism being on the agenda of World Tourism Industry has been facing stagnation with the beginning of 1990’s (Lickorish and Jenkins, 1997). The diminishing utility that Mass Tourism is facing had certain reasons one of which is the illegitimate conversion of mass market destinations into high-rise buildings with mal-functioning infrastructure, polluted air and water, destroyed natural resources, etc. Popular tourist destinations offering Mass Tourism products are facing not only environmental problems but also quality control problems in accommodation facilities, food and beverage services etc. due to the high tourist movements, congestion and overcrowding in peak seasonal period. One of the imperative factors which has lead to negative impact of mass tourism is the overuse of carrying capacity and has, therefore, emerged as a central principle. Broadly, it determines the maximum use of any destination or site without eroding its environment, resources, community, economy (both distributive and profit oriented), culture and the value system. In this counter point, the concept of ‘Niche Tourism’ as an alternative developmental control has emerged in recent years. It implies a more sophisticated set of practices and beliefs that distinguish and differentiate among special interests of tourists. For destination managers and planners seeking to utilize tourism as a mechanism for economic development, the Niche Tourism approach appears to offer greater opportunities and tourism that is more sustainable, less damaging and, importantly, more capable of delivering high-spending tourists. It represents diversity and ways of marking difference. The research reveals that tourists are rejecting standard mass package tours. More and more are seeking holidays that cater to their desire for learning, nostalgia, heritage, make-believe action and a closer look to other (Boissevain, 1996). Therefore, the present paper attempts to highlight the diminishing significance of Mass Tourism and proposes Niche Tourism as a more appropriate contemporary approach to tourism development. Keywords: Mass Tourism, Niche Tourism, Carrying Capacity, Contemporary Approach.
Title: Tourism Development impacts and future strategies: A case study of Dal Lake Author(s): Reyaz A. Qureshi
Abstract The OECD report on the environmental impact of Tourism states: “A high quality environment is essential for tourism while the quality of environment is threatened by tourism development itself, which is promoted…… because of its economic importance”. In other words, tourism tends to destroy tourism. The movement of large number of tourists and the provisioning of the necessary facilities to transport, accommodate, catering and entertain them would have an impact on the sensitive natural environment as well as the delicate social fabric of the host community. Extensive uses of natural resources has tended to result in pollution and done extensive damage to the ecosystem in many tourist regions and the present situation of Dal lake is a testimony. Dal Lake is one of the prime tourist attractions and an important component of Kashmir’s tourism industry. As a consequence majority of the establishments that cater to tourists are located in and around the lake. Spontaneous and unplanned tourism infrastructural developments as well as increasing tourism activities, in and around the lake have taken a toll on the lake’s recreational and scenic values. The degradation of the lake ecology and environment and the degradation of the assimilative capacity of the lake are the major tourism led, development induced activities that are impacting the environmental carrying capacity. The purpose of this paper is to present the nature of problem related to tourism and environment in Dal lake and concern related to sustainable tourism. Suggestions and countermeasures have been putforward in this paper so as to achieve sustainable tourism development of Dal Lake. Keywords: Conservation, Sustainable Development, Dal Lake, Environmental impact, Nature.
Title: Sustainability Issues in Tourism Development in India Author(s): O.P. Verma, Kulbhushan Chandel and Sonia Chauhan
Abstract Sustainability is one of the major challenges facing international tourism. Sustainable competitiveness in tourism calls for appropriate management approaches in order to prevent the exploitation of non-renewable resources. A major goal of sustainable tourism is to find a balance between resource use and consumer preferences. A tourism nation won’t achieve international competitive advantages through strict prohibitions of resource use but rather through conservation-conscious consumption. The present study includes an analysis of the Sustainability issues in tourism development in India. Sustainability is composed of three parts which are interrelated or interdependent of each other: environmental sustainability, economic sustainability and Cultural sustainability. The purpose is to identify the opportunities & threats which India is facing today and study their impact. India’s imperatives include building critical infrastructure and addressing security threats. Thus, there is a need to manage tourism activity in a way to ensure long term returns for the destination in a spirit which allows for the multiple re-use of scarce resources by future generations. Keywords: Sustainability, issues, development, tourism, Ecotourism etc.
Title: Vicissitudes and Dynamics of Adventure: A Case Study Of Uttarakahnd Author(s): S.P. Bansal, Amit Gangotia
Abstract Concept of adventure tourism in South Asia is at very nascent stage at this point in time, but, as per the estimates adventure has emerged as one of the most promising & swiftly moving segments of tourism industry in Asia, though it needs to be acknowledged at this point that adventure tourism has lot of scope in this part of the Asia .South East Asian countries are having exceptional potential of adventure tourism (Soft as well as Hard ) and in particular the countries like India, Nepal have been blessed by the nature of beauty with mind-boggling natural assets ,which makes this part of the world really fascinating for the tourist interested in adrenaline –rush, with mighty Himalayas in the North and deserts in west ,with the magnificent coastline of about 7,600 km ,India becomes a undisputed favorites for adventure activities .Adventure tourism has been identified as one of the fastest growing tourism segments, with an ever-expanding variety of activities appealing to a growing audience. Most adventure travelers take an adventure holiday for a number of reasons but the conducive climatic conditions make adventure hot favorites for the enthusiasts. India has huge diversification with many destinations like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, J&K, Goa, Lakhsdweep etc. which are full of natural paraphernalia available for development of the adventure tourism but ironically India is not even in the list of top 50 developing nations for the adventure tourism as per the indexing carried out by ADTI for the year 2008,In which India is ranked 99 in ATDI ranking just ahead of Mozambique which is at 100th rank. This paper is an attempt to find out the change & challenges for the sustainable development of adventure tourism in the state of Uttarakhand as a case study. The dynamics of change & challenges for the sustainable development of adventure tourism in India can be understood to some extent with the help of case study of Uttarakhand, at the same time, there is a lack of empirical research for adventure travel due to the dynamic & developing nature of the market. This research paper will try to bring out the important factors which are responsible for the development of adventure tourism. Keywords: Challenges, development, Index, Integrated, sustainable, etc.
Title: Public Private Partnership- A Developmental Approach in Tourism Industry of Jammu & Kashmir State Author(s): Ashok Aima, Jaya Bhasin and Aabid Muzzamil Lone
Abstract A high standard of service quality across diverse sectors is increasingly assuming importance. Tourism which is regarded as a no-smoke industry is one of the fastest growing industries in the world. The state of Jammu and Kashmir has in its lap some of the world’s most beautiful tourist destinations. However the true potential of this sector remains unexplored till date. This is on account of several reasons like lack of proper infrastructure, lack of communication, lack of skilled human resource, lack of investment initiatives to name a few. A dynamic strategic approach is required to fully exploit the goldmine of tourism in the state. This calls for the collaboration of private organisations and public sector in the process of service delivery. Public Private Partnership has emerged as one of the best means of public management where in it has been applied mostly in the provision of social services like education, health care and waste management. However the concept can be extended to other service sectors as well. In particular, the concept can be applied as a blend of the four approaches (policy, infrastructure, developmental, urban regeneration) as identified by some researchers. The integration of the public and private sectors would lead to pooling of competencies of both the sectors and ultimately lead to enhanced service delivery. Higher management standards, professionalism, marketing strategies, better infrastructure, speedy service delivery, hassle free booking, customised service packages, innovation regarding the introduction of novel tourist products are some of the attributes that would give the state tourism industry a competitive advantage over its rival destinations (like Kerala, Rajasthan at national level & Switzerland, Singapore, Hongkong at the international level) and at the same time help it to remain competitive in the highly contracted global village. The present paper explores the various areas of service delivery at which the public and private partners can wedlock and develop into a sound Public Private Partnership. This is imperative for the state government to adopt sooner or later given its resource crunch and huge unemployment in the state. The temptation also comes from the various benefits that the private sector can bring along like operational efficiencies, innovative technologies, managerial effectiveness, access to additional finances and risk sharing. Key Words- Public Private Partnership, Service delivery, Quality of services, Public Management.
Title: Tourism Legislation and its Status in India Author(s): Sanjay Kulshreshtha, Yogita Sharma and Virender Negi
Abstract Very few countries in the world have what can be termed as tourism legislation. In most of the countries there are various laws that have a bearing on tourism operations and activities. The various types of tourism related laws, enacted in different countries, relate to protection of tourists, border controls, quality of services, protection of environment, conservation of historical sites and monuments, tourism industry regulations and the relationship between the various segments of the travel and tourism industry. These laws are derived from different sources. Generally, the demand for tourism legislation was voiced from the point of view of tourism industry or for protecting the interests of international tourists as regards their safety or establishing standards of services. However, voices have also been raised demanding legislation for sustainable tourism development, protecting the interests of the host population and economic benefits for the local population. Key Words: Tourism legislation, Need for tourism laws, scope of tourism laws, India
Title: Public Private Partnership – A Sustainable Touristic Development Strategy Author(s): S.S. Narta and Mamta Arora
Abstract Tourism is on the one hand strongly influenced by governmental regulation i.e. public sector and on the other hand driven by private sector. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are specific types of co-operation between public institutions and private enterprises which are formed due to some synergetic advantages and which usually share both risks and profits. Usually, the foundation is a contractual agreement between the public sector and profit oriented organizations. The present paper includes an analysis of the role of the public-private partnership in the sustainable development of tourism industry in the context of India. There is need to enhance the Tourism potential of India by Integrated Development of Tourism Infrastructure by taping tourism potential along key tourism circuits and leverage the sectoral & product development through Public Private Partnership to achieve sustainable and economic development. Provision of Good quality infrastructure is a crucial prerequisite of strategy for sustainable touristic development. The purpose is to derive & evaluate principles and management imperatives for the formation of public-private partnerships in tourism Infrastructure. The paper concludes with recommendations for PPP practices in tourism and highlight implications for future research in the field of tourism – development, financing and cooperation. Keywords: Sustainable development, public private partnership, tourism, infrastructure, Sustainable tourism etc.
Title: Tourism of Taste: Food as an attraction in destination marketing, a case study on West Bengal. Author(s): Soumendra Nath Biswas
Abstract This article begins with the importance of food in our life, then defining food tourism as any tourism experience in which one learns about, appreciates, or consumes branded local culinary resources. The local ingredients and culinary resources are the central idea of this article. Key issue of this paper is to find out whether the local food can be an attraction while marketing a destination. This article discuss in details about the traditional Bengali Cuisine. Guest’s Satisfaction and its benefit while marketing Bengali Cuisine is also described. The article concludes with findings, and scope for further research. Key words: Food Tourism, Cuisine, Destination, Guest’s Satisfaction, Marketing
Title: Study the Development of Patalkot as a Cultural Destination. Author(s): Sapra Nandita, Patil J and Makhija G.
Abstract Culture tourism has special significance in promotion of national integration and international understanding. Thousands of archaeological and historical monument scattered throughout the country provide limitless opportunities to learn about the ancient history and culture. The tourism authorities at the central and state levels have played an important role in the development of the industry, with promotional campaigns such as “Incredible India,” which promoted India’s culture and tourist attractions in a fresh and memorable way. The study has taken a case of Patalkot, which has a very distinct cultural and heritage. The location in itself is unique, situated in the shape of a horse-shoe valley, walking down the steps is an experience in itself for the tourists. Patalkot is attracting many tourists because of its beautiful geographic location, natural scenic beauty, culture of local people and the immense herbal and medicinal wealth. It was found that very few people were aware of this place and even the bordering cities were totally oblivious of such a beautiful place. The visitors who came here stayed only for a few hours and left because of lack of proper accommodation facilities. The people who were aware also shied away from going to this place due to lack of proper roads and hence connectivity. There is undoubtedly a vast potential for tourism in Patalkot and the people are ready to visit if there is safe accommodation facilities, proper infrastructure, food and beverage arrangements and cost effective tour packages covering nearby places. From the economical point of view, Patalkot is rich in herbal and forest wealth but due to the lack of initiative from the Government, also non-availability of proper market, tribals have to move away for earning. This makes the valley omitted from its culture and customs. Presently, it is the need of the hour to provide basic facilities to these tribes but in a properly managed way. Study reaches on the conclusion that Palaayan should be stopped completely so that the culture and rituals of tribes of this region remain live. The culture of these people should not be killed; the system of curing disorders should not be exploited. Government should take initiative by giving employment opportunities to the tribal folks. Funding facilities should be given to them for cultivation in their field, use of wasteland and water management. Government should establish an agency for collecting forest produces brought by tribals so that they can avail the actual rate. Government should develop, with the participation of the people concerned, take coordinated and systematic action to protect the rights of these people and to guarantee respect for their integrity. Recognition and, wherever practicable, assistance should be given to these tribals in respect of their cultural identity, religious practices, linguistic abilities, origin, traditional knowledge or other characteristics. Key Words: Cultural Tourism, Patalkot, Tribal Community.
Title: History as Destination: A Case Study of Haldighati Author(s): Usha Agrawal
Abstract The intention of this paper is to explore the sensitivity of circumstances surrounding the interpretation and presentation of heritage to tourists. The places which remind our Indian history are now-a-days popping out as the favorite destinations of all tourists. But unfortunately these places are not managed properly. My paper focuses on the Cultural Heritage Management of these places. CHM is a systematic care taken to maintain the cultural values of cultural heritage assets not only for enjoyment but also as pride of present and future generations. Here is a case study of Haldighati which was first known because of Maharana Pratap but now also for Museum which is an example of heritage management. A museum is “a non- profit making, permanent institution, in the service of society and its development and open to the public, which acquires, conserves, researches, communicates and exhibits for the purpose of study ,education & enjoyment, material evidence of man & his environment.” Haldighati Museum has also tried to do the same. Museum has an art gallery with light and sound shows depicting the whole life of Maharana Pratap. It also has slide shows on Mewar Royal family, personality of Maharana Pratap & events in the life of Pannadhyay. It also displays many ancient arms used that time and the statues made are so artistic that they tend to be real. During this paper & research work I focused on the question that: Is Haldighati famous only for its glorious history or also because of good heritage management? From the records of last 9 years of tourists statistics a drastic change was seen that Firstly it was just for its history and people come here due to the feeling of patriotism but now it is more famous and attracting because of the Museum which is the result of good heritage management. Key Words: History, Haldighati, Cultural Tourism,
Title: Sustainability through Community Involvement in Nature Based Tourism Destinations; A Case of KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK Author(s): Chandan Goswami
Abstract Kaziranga National Park (KNP) of Assam, India, is famous for its virginity and one-horned rhino and has been gaining popularity among domestic and foreign tourists. This paper looks into the sustainability aspect of this destination in the long run and formulating strategies for sustainability using community participation in tourism related activities. It studied the requirements of the tourists (the demand side) and identifying new tourism products involving local community to fulfil these requirements. Keywords: Kaziranga National Park, Sustainable tourism, Community involvement, Community development.
Title: From Cataclysm to Opportunity: Post Conflict Reconstruction of Destinations towards Brand Building Author(s): Deepak Raj Gupta, Parikshat Singh Manhas and Zubair Ahmad Dada
Abstract The tectonic shifts that emerged towards the end of the Cold War have metamorphosed the international security agenda. The degeneration of the Soviet Union, the surfacing of nationalist independence movements across the post-communist horizon, and the pulling out of superpower support to prop up friendly regimes throughout the third world unleashed new forces that, among other things, resulted in a considerable augmentation in the number of intra-state wars during the 1990s. By September 11, 2001 at the very latest, it became noticeably comprehensible that intra-state conflicts – and their correlation with fragile and failing states – represent not only a major humanitarian apprehension but also a considerable threat to regional and global security. As a result, one of the fundamental challenges facing the international community at the moment involves the prevention and resolution of violent conflicts. A political or ethnic unrest can potentially produce a significant catastrophe since it is capable of impacting negatively the smooth operations of the tourism industry. This paper explores the implications of branding destinations in a post-conflict scenario and the opportunities thereof. Destination branding literature insists that every destination should incorporate crisis management strategies in its tourism planning protocols, management exercises and destination marketing campaigns. This paper proposes that destination branding should be coupled with crisis management strategies for leveraging an opportunity out of crisis, so that, tourism can be a critical catalyst in post conflict reconstruction and overcoming the negative imagery and distrust which still impedes the Sri- Lanka’s ability to achieve greater political integration and tourism prosperity in an increasingly globalized world. Keywords: Post-Conflict Branding, Political Violence, Post-Conflict Reconstruction, Crisis Communication
Title: Hosting the Postcolonial Tourist: An Authentic Experience Marketing Strategy for Custodians of Cultural Legacies Author(s): Sanjay Nadkarni and Sandeep Kulshreshtha
Abstract The authors present a conceptual framework for devising an experience marketing strategy to guide custodians of cultural legacies in promoting the consumption of tangible and intangible tourism products derived from the colonial and non-indigenous environment. An approach used to identify the psychographic profiles of both domestic and international tourists is discussed focusing on motivations, expectations, and behaviour in postcolonial societies and destinations with non-indigenous cultural legacies. The justification employed in planning and policy-making for conservation and heritage management is evaluated in the light of initiatives to preserve and showcase legacies which have dissonant and contentious associations with former colonial regimes. Examples of the custodianship of cultural legacies are examined and the varied perceptions which hosts and guests have towards the marketing of an authentic cultural tourism experience. These examples are taken from research conducted in East Asia (Hong Kong and Macao), South Asia (India), South East Asia (Singapore). The examples provide insights into the planning of strategies for other destinations, countries and regions with similar cultural legacies. Key words: colonial legacies, tourist psychographic profiles, marketing
Title: Current Trends on Changing Consumer Behavior and Their Expectation in Hospitality Author(s): Rahul Kanagat
Abstract This paper describes some recent development of business application in the hospitality industry (e.g., travel industry, and recreational entities). The research objective is to investigate the current trend hospitality industry. A structured questionnaire was formed to collect the information. The study was conducted in a very organized way. Permission of the respondent was taken earlier. The data analysis procedures covered coding, tabulating and categorization the data. A coding plan was develop and code numbers were given to code the data. The collected data was analyzed using frequency distribution and percentage. It was been reported that almost fifty percent of the respondents’ found changed in the hospitality services. Keywords: Consumer behavior, Hotels, Restaurants’, Service and Facilities, Environment.
Title: Marketing Challenges of Airlines: An Indian Perspective Author(s): M.R.Dileep
Abstract The Indian aviation industry has witnessed an impressive growth during the past several years. The market has been strongly supported by both public and private sectors. It is currently the 9th largest market in the world (Aviation IBEF, 2011). Since the early 1990s, India’s growing economy has witnessed a rise in demand for transport infrastructure and services. Till 1990s, Indian skies were dominated by Air India and Indian Airlines. But, within years, private sector started to dominate the sector as a number of private airlines got established themselves as efficient operators. By the beginning of 2000, further expansion of airline sector took place in India. The most significant change happened when Deccan Airways, the first ‘no frills’ airlines entered into the scene. This stimulated the growth in air travel enormously and correspondingly the competition among airlines also increased tremendously. Sooner alliances, mergers and similar strategies were adopted by airlines in India. Airline business is vulnerable to external environments and such many issues caused difficulties for airline businesses. Currently, airline businesses, while growing, face a range of issues of survival and corresponding challenges. Against this background, an attempt has been done to examine the challenges of airlines in India, especially in terms of marketing. Key Words: Airline, Air Transportation, challenges, Marketing, Deregulation, Airline Industry
Title: Expectation and Satisfaction Level of Tourists Visiting Heritage Sites and its Efficacy to Attract Tourist Author(s): Parikshat Singh Manhas, Ramjit and Jeet Dogra
Abstract The study attempts to investigate the relationship between cultural/heritage destination attributes and tourist satisfaction in terms of selected tourists’ demographic characteristics and travel behavior characteristics. The expectancy-disconfirmation theory provided a conceptual framework for this study. The expectancy-disconfirmation theory holds that consumers first form expectations of products or service performance prior to purchasing or use. Subsequently, purchasing and use convey to the consumer beliefs about the actual or perceived performance of the product(s) or service(s). The consumer then compares the perceived performance to prior expectations. Consumer satisfaction is seen as the outcome of this comparison (Clemons & Woodruff, 1992). The study area for this study was cultural / heritage sites of Jammu (Jammu and Kashmir, India). The data of this study were collected from the on-site survey method. The sample population for this study was composed of tourists who visited Jammu City between June and September in 2010. The survey was conducted at eight different cultural / heritage sites in the Jammu city. Out of 150 questionnaires, 126 were usable. Therefore, the data from 126 respondents were analyzed in this study. Appropriate statistical analyses such as frequencies, descriptive, factor analysis, correlation analysis, multiple regressions were used according to respective objectives and descriptors. The factor analysis was conducted to create correlated variable composites from the original 25 attributes. Using factor analysis, 25 destination attributes resulted to four dimensions: General Tour Attraction, Heritage Attraction, Maintenance Factors and Culture Attraction. These four factors then were related with overall satisfaction. Based upon the results of this study, several recommendations can be made to increase tourists’ satisfaction with the cultural / heritage sites of Jammu. Keywords: Expectation; Satisfaction; Cultural / heritage sites; Efficacy.
Title: Marketing Impacts of Travel Marts in South India Author(s): Joby Thomas
Abstract “Marketing impact of travel marts in South India” is aimed at finding how effective are travel marts as a marketing communications tool for tour operators and travel agencies . The sample is chosen to be from Bangalore, Chennai and Cochin in South India. The study investigates the role of travel marts in the tourism business marketing communications mix, the expectations and benefits of participation and to evaluate the complementary effect of travel marts on personal selling. The study reveals the preferred promotional tools, their intentions in attending travel marts and their perceptions of travel marts as a marketing communications tool. Key Words: Travel Mart, Marketing Communication, Tour Operators, Business Tourism
Title: Innovative Cultural Tourism Business Replica and Its Relevance in Tamil Nadu Author(s): T.Milton
Abstract Tourism is a leading global industry. Cultural Tourism in Tamil Nadu has grown by leaps and bounds with a great influx of tourists from throughout the world. Tamil Nadu has the right tourism potential and attractions to captivate the cultural tourists. Matured practices, noble thoughts and deeds which are beneficial to society are called culture. Tamil Culture is tradition bound. The customs and the rituals revolve around the religion. Festivals of Tamil Nadu are mostly associated with religion and temples. Music and dance are the important entertainments of Tamil Nadu. The Tamil nadu tourism development corporation has taken special initiatives to attract more cultural tourists. This paper analyses how this innovative cultural tourism business replica can be applied in Tamil Nadu to develop the cultural heritage potential. Cutting edge research with clearly defined objectives by academicians and tourism experts should be bestowed to the tourism industry by addressing innovative cultural business replicas is the need of the hour. This paper also attempts how cultural tourism can bring sustainable and profitable development to Tamil nadu. Keywords: Business, Culture, Innovative, Tamil Nadu, Tourism,
Title: Tourism & Retail Author(s): Milind Fadnavis and Mansi Fadnavis
Abstract If one is to believe that a tourist spends about 25%-30% of his total budget on shopping and entertainment, then understanding the relation between tourism and retail becomes crucial. Tourist, either local or international, normally keeps the shopping agenda for the last leg of the tour. Exceptions of course are the heavy plastic money user tourists. International tourists from European or US origin visiting SAARC countries have the benefit of MULTIPLIER effect because of the currency conversion factor. Contrary to this, tourists from SAARC countries visiting Europe or US face the shrinkage effect due to hard currencies there. In both cases, different trajectories of purchases emerge. International tourists coming to SAARC nations buy more goods, which are ethnic in nature, are hand made, may prefer unorganized retail outlets and negotiate hard. On the contrary, the SAARC nation tourists going ABROAD prefer organized outlets such as malls, super or hypermarkets and normally have electronic goods not available easily locally on their shopping list. Important factors, which influence the purchase decisions, are – price in market back home, duration of the tour, availability of the product and presence of service center back home. Other factors that affect the decision are carrots offered by the retailer, weight restrictions in international air travel, mandatory shopping list, and mode of financing the tour, possession of international cards, and coincidence of the tour with the special promotion such as Dubai Shopping Festival and so on. Authors have developed 2 x 2 matrixes and have tried to decipher the purchase patterns of local and international tourists. The paper deals at length the purchase behavior of the tourists in hard and soft currency destinations and their preferences to organized vis-à-vis unorganized outlets. Key Words: Shopping, conversion, ethnic, plastic money
Title: A study on Brand Perception and Customer Relationship Management of Clientele of Tourism Industry in Bangalore Author(s): Tomy K. Kallarakal, Jain Mathew and Sneha Naidu
Abstract India’s tourism industry is experiencing a strong period of growth, driven by the burgeoning Indian middle class, growth in high spending foreign tourists, and coordinated government campaigns to promote ‘Incredible India’. India’s governmental bodies have also made a significant impact in tourism by requiring that each and every state of India have a corporation to administer support issues related to tourism. Tourism is a diversified and decentralized industry. The commercial imperatives drive tourism change according to the location, as do the environmental, social and cultural impacts of tourism on particular communities. As almost 20 million people are now working in India’s tourism industry. No study on tourism can be regarded as complete without a thorough research on Customer Relationship Management, as any day customer is the king. Hence, it becomes all the more essential to find out the relationship between Brand perception and CRM in the tourism industry. The study will be relevant for the tourism industry which can improve CRM initiatives to increase brand perception of customers not only in Bangalore but also in India in general. People today are brand conscious when it comes to products and services of the tourism and hospitality industry. When it came to CRM, some of the first things that came to the minds of the customers about the firms were the way they are treated by the staff, whether it provides value for money or whether it is know for its hassle free dealings with customers. The results of the study shows there is significant relation between Brand perception and CRM in the tourism industry. Key words: Tourism Industry, Customer Relationship Management, Brand Perception.
Title: Sustainable Tourism Development in India: Making Talent Sustenance Relevant Author(s): Sheeba Hamid
Abstract Sustainable tourism is economically, socio-culturally and environmentally sustainable. It is an activity that can be maintained over the long-term. This is achieved by balancing the needs of tourists with those of the destination. Increasing evidence shows that an integrated approach to tourism planning and management is now required to achieve sustainable tourism. This study aims to highlight that talent sustenance cannot be overlooked in an integrated approach to tourism planning. Successful organizations realize that employee retention is integral to sustained growth and leadership in the marketplace. Sustainable tourism aims to conserve the resources of destinations. Certainly, the indispensability of the most important resource i.e. human resource is unquestionable. Sustainable tourism strives for quality, not quantity. Communities measure tourism success not by number of visitors but by length of stay, money spent and the quality of experience. Since hiring and attrition is a continuous process in the market scenario, it can have a devastating effect on the organizations because loss of talent can have serious impact on customer service and severely impair sustainable tourism development of a particular area. This study primarily deals with the relevance of strong and sustainable workforce in developing sustainable tourism in India. The efforts of consistent and appropriate employees can bring forward abundant opportunities for building the foundation of sustainable tourism in India. Creating a foundation of sustained retention of employees can take years and therefore tourism companies have to ensure focused and calculated methods so that their talent and profits do not drain away. The study is directed to establish the strategic role of talent sustenance towards sustainable tourism development in India. In the wake of the fact that tourism companies are still struggling to institutionalize effective talent retention practices and programmes, those companies that implement streamlined retention are poised for colossal contribution towards achieving sustainable tourism development in India. Key Words: Sustainable Tourism, Integrated Approach, Tourism Planning
Title: A Study on the Impact of Tourism on Indian Economy Author(s): C.K.Singh and Pooja Prakash
Abstract Tourism has become a leisure activity globally. It has emerged as a trade in recent past. This new industry is mounting as the principal industry of the world. And now the technical boom helps tourism to be in the main driving seat of any countries economy. According to the survey of World Tourism Organization tourist movement throughout the world can touch the 1600 million mark within 2020. And that’s why the specialists of this industry think that “it is a new economic phenomenon, a new business, a new industry of vast dimension and magnitude.” The biggest feature of this industry is that it can generate maximum employment opportunity. And it’s simply because of the number of subsidiary industries. Some economists credit this fiscal feature of success of Indian financial system to the income generated by the tourism segment, movements across the cross-section of rising business opportunities, agricultural and educational sectors opening up as well as novel and attractive packaging of brand-building for India that have in turn, benefited the travel industry as well. Jobs generated by Travel & Tourism are spread across the economy – in retail, construction, manufacturing and telecommunications, as well as directly in Travel & Tourism companies. Tourism is one of the driving force which helps regional development and economic development. Hence this paper is a small effort made to enquire upon the impact and relevance of tourism on the Indian economy. Keywords: Indian Economy, Travel & tourism, GDP, Balance of Payments
Title: Community Well Being & Rural Tourism Author(s): Naveen Gupta, Anju Jain, Riju Agarwal Singh, and Abhilasha Singh
Abstract “Just as the whole universe is contained in the self, so is India contained in the villages.”- Mahatma Gandhi Real India is Rural India. No adulteration, no cut thought practice, no mad rat race, no pollution, but caring, and delightful atmosphere; no bitter feeling, but fertile land, clean water, clean air and quality food. The attractions of the village- thatched huts, evergreen mustard/paddy fields, grazing cows and the aroma of local cuisines. All these things reflect the beauty, joy, satisfaction of human race and oneness with nature. It advises us to get back to nature, without disturbing the equilibrium of nature. Their charm compels us to take a vacation and relax some days away from the cacophony of urban life. Besides, ‘Rural’ is an entity fast disappearing especially in the developed world. Even for young urban Indians, rural would be something that they would want to connect to. Both Indians and foreigners can be wooed. A travel into these areas enthralls the life with fun and entertainment and will help in improving lives of rural people in a number of ways. Rural tourism is in its nascent stage in India,” Aithal notes. “But it will grow. There is a huge market out there. To harness this potential of villages we have identified the Pingri village to be developed for tourist. Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) analysis has been used for analysing both the internal and external environment in order to attain a systematic approach for its development. In this study, we have come up with a strategic plan to develop the village as a tourist attraction, which would be a reason/ source of villagers’ happiness and well being. Keywords: Tourist Attraction; Environment Conservation; Community Involvement, Sustainable Operation and Visitor Satisfaction.
Title: Cloud Computing: Opportunities and Challenges For Tourism Enterprises Author(s): Sareeta Pradhan
Abstract This paper aims at contributing to the understanding of opportunities and challenges of cloud computing and also delves into the business and technical aspects of cloud computing highlighting how tourism enterprises in South Asia can use it to their advantage. Technological advancements have altered the very fabric of how Information Technology delivers services and how an enterprise purchases and uses those services and success of any business increasingly tends to hinge on the proper adoption and utilization of hundreds of licensed software tools that are critical for building and running the databases and applications that power their business. Managing these tools and their associated licenses, including deploying, provisioning, and updating them, is time-consuming and incurs many hidden costs. This technology is being rapidly utilized by enterprises and industries .However, adoption of cloud computing platforms and services by the tourism enterprises is in its infancy as the performance and monetary cost-benefits for scientific applications are not very clear. Cloud computing, with the revolutionary promise of computing as a utility, has the potential to deliver and manage the IT services efficiently and effectively. This paper studies certain aspects of the application of cloud computing to tourism industry. The study uses Importance and Performance (IP) analysis to assess the effectiveness of cloud computing strategies. The objective of this research paper was to analyze the scope of cloud computing for the tourism enterprises in South-Asia . Cloud computing has to evolve significantly to deliver reliable, seamless service across private, hosted and public environments. Regardless of all advantages, the disadvantages are many and if the technology matures with time, it has a lot to deliver to tourism enterprises in the long run. There is the realization that cloud computing can help cut costs and drive innovation at the same time. Key words: cloud computing, Tourism, Importance and Performance (IP) analysis
Title: Tourism and sustainable regional development in South Asia: A discourse with a focus on Bangladesh
Author(s): Sheikh Md. Monzurul Huq
Abstract Sustainable regional development means alleviation of regional disparities with the integration of ecological concerns. Studies in the past in the developed countries opined that tourism can aid to reduce regional disparities and promote regional development. It has also been observed that tourist visits assist in boosting trade among regions. Analyses further show that tourism brings important benefits to the regions in terms of enhancement of GDP and employment creation. Unfortunately regional level initiatives in tourism development in the poor countries are largely a neglected aspect. Little attention has been given in managing existing socio-economic and other inequalities among regions with the help of tourism development. With a review of the existing literature this study investigates the potential of thriving and sustainable role of the tourism sector for regional development. This paper draws examples from regional disparities in Bangladesh and examines the problems of tourism development in South Asian Region. The analysis compares regions from the perspective of the potential of tourism industry. It is observed that there exists a concentration of tourism activities in certain regions and these concentrations are linked to complex regional variations in tourism attractions, tourism services and infrastructures at the regional levels. With the adoption of appropriate strategies, these issues may be effectively addressed. It is further opined that appropriate regional strategy should be adopted to relieve pressure on fragile areas. Environmental considerations should get more priorities in this respect, and a range of spatial strategies may be implemented for sustainable tourism development in the region. This study suggests that there is a need for South Asian regional cooperation for overcoming problems related tourism development in the region. Key Words: Sustainable regional development, Bangladesh, Tourism Development
Title: Eco Tourism Sustaining For Better Future Author(s): Saurabh Dixit and C. S. Barua
Abstract It is a significant question to understand- what is eco-tourism? Travel agents, tourists find it more fascinated and less authenticated. Eco-tourism must be well understood before implementing practically. These days ecotourism is being considered as a buzz word and it has glazed the eyes of all the stakeholders in tourism. Paper has taken up a study of ecotourism practices and tried to explore the opportunities for successful ecotourism practices. Study reaches on the conclusion that in ecotourism the key element is the local people. All the practices of tourism, which are aimed at the development of local people and well being of natural area, can be considered as the ecotourism. Paper finally postulates that ecotourism means opting for sustainable practices, which finally aimed at a better future. Key Words: Ecotourism, Sustainable Tourism development, Poverty Alleviation.
Title: Tourism in SAARC region Author(s): Saurabh Dixit and Luv Kush Mishra
Abstract Tourism evolved out as a tool for economic development. After Second World War and liberalization countries are seeking ways out to devise new ways to develop economy by synergizing travel and luring up people to visit their place. It creates phenomenal change in image, social changes, uplifting mutual interaction, tangible developments, infrastructural changes and long term benefits to that region. That is why, many places jointly promoted tourism. South Asia is not a new region to explore. But, it has unique products and economy of countries in South Asia is progressive and population is highly dense. Hence, tourism is favourable sector to use for upliftment of the society. With the help of secondary data, the present paper explores the status of tourism in SAARC countries. Key Words: Tourism and Economic Development, South Asia, SAARC
Title: Socio-Economic Impacts of Tourism in Orissa: A Case Study On Puri, Konark and Bhubaneswar. Author(s): Dillip Kumar Das
Abstract The golden triangle comprising Puri -Konark-Bhubaneswar is not only the USP of Orissa tourism but has huge tourism potentials to attract large number of tourists. Situated in the eastern sea coast of India, Orissa is a potential State in India with multiple options and plethora of attractions. The state is endowed with beautiful beaches, art & craft, temples and monuments, lakes, forest and wildlife, etc. The Sun Temple at Konark is the only World Heritage Monument and the temple of Lord Jagannath attracts millions of devotees from round the globe for being one of the holiest of holy dhams in India. Bhubaneswar being the capital city is famous for its varied tourism resources including the famous Lingaraj temple, The Rajarani Temple, which is popularly known as the gem of Kalingan architecture, the famous Khandagiri and Udaygiri Jain caves, famous Dhauligiri, where Kalingan war takes place and many more destinations of repute. Although the tourism potential of the state is vast and varied but still the tourist arrival is not encouraging with the kind of product Orissa possesses. Key words: Golden Triangle, Impact, Kalingan architecture, USP, Dhams
Title: Uttarakhand Tourism : A Swot Analysis and Sustainable Model Author(s): Bipin Chadra Pant
Abstract Uttarakhand is a land which is bestowed with natural grandeur at its best – picturesque locations, snow capped mountains, lush green valleys, a cool climate and hospitable people. It is indeed the very lap of nature. It is therefore a fact that Uttarakhand has immense tourism potential; a potential that it must leverage and sustain. Tourism has its benefits which Uttarakhand must cash on without getting affected by its shortcomings. To leverage on this tourism potential, it is necessary for Uttarakhand not only to sell itself but also analyse the needs, the perceptions, the preferences, the satisfaction of the customers that it can provide. Hence the study aims to analyse these very tourist responses with the help of a questionnaire. The study revealed that although Uttarakhand has unique natural offerings it is not able to cash upon them due to lack of various facilities. Most of tourists’ expectations were met with but they depended on the presence of good necessities like amenities, food , water and proper infrastructural facilities like accommodation, transport, accessibility, etc which were found lacking in certain cases. A majority of the respondents believed that they would come again based on the fact that the natural beauty of Uttarakhand draws them towards it but provided it develops the necessary facilities which may be lacking currently. The tourists believed that Uttarakhand does have the potential of becoming one of the world’s top tourist destinations, if it can overcome its deficiencies and market itself well so as to position itself uniquely in the minds of tourists. It was therefore suggested that Uttarakhand must develop its infrastructural facilities and promote its offerings in a sustainable manner. It must explore newer avenues in relation with nature and open up its unexplored areas. Key words:Tourism,Uttarakhand,Components,Potential,SWOT analysis.
Title: Heritage Tourism in Rajasthan: Study of Leadership Styles Author(s): Ashok Aima, Jaya Bhasin, and Rachna Gupta
Abstract Rajasthan derives its name from “ Rajah” “Sthana”, which literally means home of kings. The history of Rajasthan, once called Rajputana, narrates the legendary tales of valour and romance. The marvelous architecture and captivating landscape makes it an unbeatable destination on India’s tourist map. The State represents a distinct variety in all its forms – customs, culture, music, costumes, dialects, people and cuisine. The ‘Land of Kings’ ¬ Rajasthan is renowned world over for its heritage hotels. The state houses maximum number of Heritage properties in the country. Many of these buildings were converted into heritage hotels, as much to maintain them as also a new means of livelihood. Despite the conversion however, most of these places have been able to retain the original flavor of medieval homes intact. Even the families, whose ancestors once served within these royal portals, have continued to find employment. This could be possible only because of the leadership styles followed by the royal ancestors Leadership as researched can be categorized into two aspects: “translation” and “transformation.” Translation is a leader’s ability to communicate or frame the sustainability message so others understand it from their mindsets or points of view while at the same time enhancing the leader’s own capabilities to take effective action. Transformation is about the potential of leaders to develop their perspectives and capacities. It presents and discusses the inner characteristics that contribute to agility, or the ability to adapt again and again to constantly changing conditions. This paper studies the leadership styles followed by the royal families to manage these properties. The study focuses on the HRH Group of Hotels in Udaipur. The Chairman and Managing director of this property continues to transform the past into the future to this day. In addition to providing leadership for the management of hotels the managing director has been instrumental in creating a brand that represents heritage hotels. Key Words: Rajasthan, Hetitage Tourism, Leadership Styles
Title: “Eastern Vindhayas : A Home of Rock Shelters as Tourist Destinations” (An area of Natural & Cultural Tourism) Author(s): Mahesh Vikram Singh and Neeta Chaubey
Abstract Eastern Vindhyas display a big chunk of Natural and Cultural heritage of India. It houses time old rock shelters and caves containing rock paintings depicting the human life ever from the pre-historic age of hunters, food, fruits and honey gatherers to the period of established civilization until at least up to early medieval and medieval period. Besides, these spots of heritage fall in a natural landscape of hills and mountainous terrains, forest and greenery, water streams and waterfalls along with the inhabiting flora and fauna. Particular reference may be made to the Kaua khoh, Lakhania, Panchamukhi rock shelters and Lakhma caves and also to Fossil Park at Salkhan in Sonbhadra district and other sites in Sonbhadra and Mirzapur districts. Being easily accessible from both Varanasi and Allahabad, which are already a great tourist destination of Uttar Pradesh, yet it fail to draw sufficient attention of inbound tourists to India for a number of factors. Firstly it is the lack of awareness and marketing of these sites for want of highlighting its heritage and natural value. Secondly it is the lack of smooth transport facilities which fails to incite and encourage the interested tourists to reach such places. Thirdly it is the lack of security and other safe guards for the visitors to such places which, of course, are isolated and unprotected interiors of the region. Then fourthly it is the lack of minimal support system for the travelers daring to appreciate these sites. It is not simply a case of projecting a new or less attended tourism product to fall within an ambit of popular tourist destinations. Rather it is something which should have been taken better care and promoted with a view to offer a real taste of knowing the progress of aboriginal India and it’s links and final integrations or merger into the mainstream cultures of India. This hardly requires any explanations for its worth for promotion and expansion of tourism Industry in the state of Uttar Pradesh and India at large. Key Words: Rock shelters, Rock art/ paintings, Aboriginal / folk life, Antiquity, Heritage.
Title: E- marketing in hospitality industry: A Case study of Hotel industry of Agra Author(s): Anil Kumar Gupta, Rajiv Kapil & Pramod Sharma
Abstract Internet now has become an integral part of our life. No one can deny the importance of internet in the business. In fact internet has realized the concept of global village. The emerging trend of business both service and manufacturing is largely dependent up on the information technology specially internet. For example shoe manufacturers of Agra sitting in the city is selling their products in the European countries. The same thing is happening with the Taj Mahal and other world heritage sites those are being promoted by the travel agents, tour operators and government offices with the help of internet. Most of the governments have created their own websites for their destination promotion. Various service providers in the hospitality sector like hotels, airlines and travel agencies are selling their packages with the help of websites. Internet has helped a lot in their business growth. There is not everything rosy in internet marketing it is thorny too. For example internet has caused tremendous growth in the hospitality sector on one hand and has caused some decline in the business of travel agencies and tour operators on the other hand. Because people have started to book their air and train tickets and hotel directly minimizing the role of travel agency as earlier people were largely dependent upon the travel agencies for such type of things. The aim of this study is to find out the percentage of people who have directly booked the rooms in the hotels through internet .This study has also objective to find out the ways and means to promote Agra as destination using internet. This research work has limitation also as it is limited to hotels of Agra using primary and secondary data. Key Words: global village, travel agency, internet, hospitality sector
Title: A Critical Analysis of Tourist Profile visiting World Heritage Sites in Agra (INDIA) Author(s): Lavkush Mishra and Brajeshwer Dutt Shukla
Abstract Agra is known for the Taj Mahal worldwide. The city is located at the distance of 200 kilometers from the national capital of India, New Delhi and is well connected by the rail and road. Lying on the bank of river Yamuna the city has number of monuments to cater the historical and heritage desire of the tourists not only from the country but abroad too.Agra is an integral part of the Braj Bhoomi, the birth place of lord Krishna and also had been capital of Mughals for more than 150 years that was established by the Babur. This has led a unique cultural amalgamation of different major religions of the world like Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism and Jainism. The city has three World Heritage Sites – Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. Though, Akbar’s tomb at Sikandara and Itmad-ud daula are in the waiting list of the UNESCO to be declared as World Heritage Sites. There are other many historical sites like Aram Bagh, Chouburji ( tomb of Babur),Chini ka Roja , Mariam’s tomb, Catholic British Church etc. Other attraction in the city may be Swami Bagh temple, Sur Kooti, Keetham Lake etc. The Study has aim to find out the profile of tourist visiting Agra specially for the cultural reasons. This work has also objective to analyze their liking and disliking, backgrounds and motivating factors for visiting the world fame this city of Tal Mahal. This will be helpful for the industry people, research scholars and policy makers. Key Words: Yamuna, Braj Bhoomi, Mughals, World Heritage Sites, Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Chouburji, UNESCO, Motivating factors.
Title: Nagpur : 2nd capital of Maharashtra to tiger capital of world- challenges. Author(s): Prashant Virkhare
Abstract According to the latest study, out of the total Population of Tigers in India, over 1/3rd tiger population is present in forests around the Orange City. Inspired by this citizens Nagpur, has kick-started a campaign to make Nagpur the “Tiger Capital” of the World. The main objective of Project Tiger was to ensure a viable growth of tiger population of in India for scientific, economic, aesthetic, cultural and ecological values and to preserve for all time, areas of biological importance as a natural heritage for the benefit, education and enjoyment of the people. Main objectives under the scheme include wildlife management, protection measures and site-specific eco-development to reduce the dependency of local communities on tiger reserve resources. Tourism promotion and infrastructural development for tourism related activities is bound to have a series of socio-cultural, socio-economic, physical and environmental impacts on the habitat which would require a systematic evaluation and analysis, using scientific techniques, before development decisions are taken. Any programme for tourism development should thus have the underlying objective of promoting the positive impacts and mitigating the negative impacts on the social, economic and physical environments of the Paper reaches on the conclusion that the tourism development plan should cover: • Accessibility and linkages to various tourists centers as part of the city network, • Internal circulation based on limited vehicular accessibility and predominantly pedestrian oriented, • Zonation of land around each spot for locating required tourist infrastructure facilities, as well as • Ensuring through suitable zoning regulations as far as possible that high intensity development does not come up in the vicinity. Key Words: Nagpur, Project Tiger, Tourism Promotion, Tourism Development.
Want to get registered for Srilanka Conference?
To facilitate you and to attend to your queries regarding the package, payments etc. you are free to contact ITC Desk Toll Free No: 1800-102-28-82 or reach the ITC Desk on its exclusive e-mail ID: [email protected]
3rd International Conference
Dear Respected Colleagues,
Warm greetings from Indian Tourism Congress
As per the past practice this year also with the kind support and blessings of all the members, Indian Tourism Congress is going to host its Third International Conference in Colombo, Srilanka from 22nd June to 26th June 2011 (5 Days and 4 Nights).
This present conference on Regional Tourism – Trends, Changes, and Challenges in South Asia is dedicated to address a wide vista of tourism related issues that rightly acknowledge the importance of the regional tourism, further appreciating the changes in the industry in form of innovations.
The present conference will try to examine the potential that clearly exists for tourism development through innovations in South Asian region. In particular, discussions will try to figure out the future tourism on the basis of addressing contemporary practices, trends and innovations. Conference will also try to identify the opportunities for tourism development in light of challenges ahead.
Regional Tourism – Trends, Changes and Challenges in South Asia
THEMATIC AREAS
- Contemporary Practices in Regional Tourism and Hospitality Business
- Marketing and Promotion of the South Asian region as a common tourist destination.
- Innovations in South Asian Tourism and Hospitality Industry
- South Asian identity through tourism
- Possible role of the private and public sector in tourism development
- Tourism and Hospitality Education in South Asia: inherent issues, possibilities of common curriculum and research
- Development of alternative tourism like nature, cultural, medical, health, educational, eco- tourism and backpacker Tourism
- Sustainability issues in tourism development
Note: Above list of thematic areas is not exhaustive one. Related research would also be highly appreciated.
CONTRIBUTION
Persons interested to participate in the conference are welcome to contribute their research papers/ research notes/ case studies/ brief research notes on the themes or related subjects with specific recommendations for discussions in technical sessions. Abstract of maximum 300 words in MS-word format (letter size 12 point, Times New Roman font) should reach by 15 April 2011 on the following address: [email protected]
For the conference announcement please go to page Srilanka Conference
In fact since last few days we were working hard for finalizing the best deal to visit Colombo. It took us time in finalising this deal so as to get the most out of it and make your stay in Sri Lanka a comfortable one. This time too our package is being arranged by Prateek Hira of TORNOS DESTINATIONS (India) Pvt Ltd. (TORNOS) the company that handled our Thailand conference and also we have been able to tie-up with The University of Colombo as our conference partner with support from Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority.
We hope you all would enjoy the visit and this conference would be beneficial for the entire tourism academia. The details of the conference (tour details) are following:
3rd INTERNATIONAL ITC CONFERENCE
(Colombo – Sri Lanka : 22nd June to 26th June 2011 – 5days & 4 nights)
The package cost is 29000/- per person (aprox) which includes 5 days & 4 nights of Srilanka Package, stay, meals, transfers, guided city tours, Delhi-Colombo-Delhi airfare, ITC Registration Fee.
Detailed itinerary and package for members not travelling Ex-Delhi will be sent in our next communication very soon.
A non-refundable amount of Rs 4000/- along with the filled in registration form (attached with this e-mail) may kindly be paid by each participating member towards Airline Seat Blocking and Registration Fee directly to TORNOS by way of crossed cheques sent to them by courier / speed post / registered post latest by 4 th April. Their postal address is as follows:
ITC Desk, Tornos Destinations (India) Pvt Ltd., Tornos House, C-2016 Indira Nagar,
Lucknow – 226 016. Tel: 0522-2349472 / 2346965
Once again you are requested to take advantage of this early bird registration to avoid 20% surcharge on the total package cost (payable after 4 th April).
Best wishes,
Prof. Sandeep Kulshreshtha, Sr. Vice – President ITC, 9826214448
Prof. S.P. Bansal , Secretary General ITC, 9816041389
Happy New Year
Indian Tourism Congress wishes whole tourism family a very happy new year 2011.
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Two-day International Tourism and Hospitality Conference – AITHC 2021, commences at Amity
New Delhi: Amity Institute of Travel and Tourism Amity University organised a two-day International Tourism and Hospitality Conference (AITHC 2021) on the theme “International Conference on Tourism for Inclusive Growth: Promoting equality and Sustainable Economic Development” to commemorate World Tourism Day 2021.
Inaugurating the conference, Shripad Naik, Minister of State for Tourism and Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways said “ Tourism is the world’s biggest industry which creates jobs for all sectors of society, builds foreign exchange reserves and boosts the economy.
With inclusive tourism, we can achieve and meet 10 out of 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations, wherein Goals like No 5 for gender equality, No 8 for industry, innovation, and infrastructure development can be met with the development in the tourism sector.
He appreciated the international conference being organized by Amity and said that such conferences will be helpful in the inclusive development of tourism. Tourism contributes to the social, economic development of the country and it is a major industry of the world with which a large number of people are connected.
The future of tourism is also based on the environment, by developing and preserving the environment, there will be development in the field of tourism. In the present time, information communication technology has given a new dimension to the tourism sector and all the countries in the world are associated with the tourism industry.
The Minister said that under the leadership of the Prime Minister, efforts are being made by the Government at various levels for the development of the country’s tourism industry. He also briefed about the guidelines being issued by the Ministry of Tourism to the tourism industries and said the tourism industry needs to regain its aura once again post covid. He suggested increasing the building capacity of the hospitality industry, operationalization of hotels, Homestays, B&B etc, and outlined several initiatives like Saathi, Incredible India, Dekho Apna Desh, Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat etc. which the government has rolled out to boost tourism.
Dr. Ashok K Chauhan, Founder President, Amity Education Group said the speech given by the minister, is a big encouragement for all of us. “India has the potential to become self-reliant in every field and we have full faith that soon we will be self-reliant in every field. We at Amity organize such conferences for students to provide opportunities available in the tourism sector and also to get guidance from experts in the field. Presently there are many opportunities available in the tourism sector via innovative determination” said Dr. Chauhan.
Dr. Amitabh Upadhyay, President, Global Business Studies (GBS), Dubai, UAE said pandemic has hit the tourism industry. Big industry groups will soon bring themselves into the mainstream, but mostly small industries have been affected more. Improvement in the environment, reduction in energy consumption, more focus on health security infrastructure, and development of information communication technology, etc. are some of the positive effects of this pandemic.
Development can be called inclusive only when social opportunities are developed and to achieve equitable and sustainable growth, economic distribution needs to keep in mind. Tourism development should be compatible, community-centric, and gradual, race for competitive advantage should be avoided, commented Dr. Upadhyay.
Prof S P Bansal, Vice-Chancellor, Central University of Himachal Pradesh & President Indian Tourism & Hospitality Congress (ITHC) said today is the day of introspection for the people associated with the tourism industry. The target of leaving no one behind with the development of the tourism sector has been set by the UNWTO.
“We must look to the future of the tourism sector after the pandemic and be prepared to meet the global challenges. He said that in the field of tourism education, new areas should be included as per the new education policy”.
Prof Harold Goodwin, Professor Emeritus and Responsible Tourism Director at the Institute of Place Management at Manchester Metropolitan University, Managing Director of Responsible Tourism said that sustainable tourism will develop through responsible tourism. India should incorporate the local people in the inclusive development of tourism. India is technically very developed and uses this technology to develop new tourist destinations and focus on yield in the tourism sector.
On the occasion, Prof (Dr) M. Sajnani, Dean Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism, & Director, AITT, Amity welcomed the guest and said more than 50 International experts and scholars will present their views in different sessions and more than 70 research papers are being presented in this conference also
During the technical session, Chris Flynn, President & CEO, World Tourism Association for Culture & Heritage, Greater Sydney Area, Australia shared his views on Leadership challenges to achieve sustainability in Hospitality and Tourism; Prof. Manjula Chaudhary, Dean, Academic Affairs, Kurukshetra University shared her views on Social Entrepreneurship & Sustainability; Prof. Prashant Gautam, Professor, Panjab University, Chandigarh shared his views on Building Peace through Tourism; Dr. Md Ariful Hoque, Department of Marketing, Faculty of Business Studies, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka, Bangladesh shared his views on An integrated tourism; A Tool for Poverty Alleviation amongst others.
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Indian Tourism and Hospitality Congress. 1,739 likes · 8 talking about this. An Official Page of Indian Tourism and Hospitality Congress (ITHC) to promote and enrich Tourism and Hospitality Education.
Indian Tourism and Hospitality Congress. 158 likes. Tourism and Hospitality sector is one of the fastest-growing sectors. ITHC brings all the sector rel
During these unprecedented times it was an opportunity to invest time in education and research. Understanding its responsibility Indian Tourism and Hospitality Congress is delighted to announce the first issue of 11th edition of Tourism Innovations-the Journal of Indian Tourism and Hospitality Congress.
On the occasion of National Conference of Indian Tourism and Hospitality Congress at Auro University, Surat (Gujarat) we are delighted to announce the first issue of tenth edition ofTourism Innovations-the Journal of Indian Tourism and Hospitality Congress.
As informed to you earlier also that Indian Tourism Congress is planning to bring out a pre- conference edited book on the occasion of its forthcoming international conference. Therefore you all are requested to contribute your research papers/ research notes/ case studies/ brief research notes for the book.
TOURISM INNOVATIONS An International Journal of Indian Tourism and Hospitality Congress (ITHC) Chief Editors Prof. S P Bansal Vice Chancellor Indira Gandhi University Meerpur Rewari, Haryana Prof. Sandeep Kulshrestha Director Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management, (IITTM) Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh Vol. 6, No. 2, August, 2016 Bi-Annual
TOURISM INNOVATIONS: A JOURNAL OF INDIAN TOURISM CONGRESS (ITC) is an annual international referred research Journal focusing on academic perspectives in Tourism and Hospitality. Emphasizing upon integrated approach being an inter-disciplinary field, the journal
Prof S P Bansal, Vice-Chancellor, Central University of Himachal Pradesh & President Indian Tourism & Hospitality Congress (ITHC) said today is the day of introspection for the people associated with the tourism industry. The target of leaving no one behind with the development of the tourism sector has been set by the UNWTO.