In
spite of its many cultural, natural and historic attractions,
India has been unable to turn tourism into a significant
economic contribution to its GDP. India’s market share
of international tourism has dwindled over the last decades
and revenues lag behind those of other Asiatic competitors.
It is expected, however, that tourism will make a greater
economic contribution as the dynamic growth of India’s
middle classes is sustained in the coming years. Additionally,
India will have to make greater efforts to attract a more
varied mix of international tourists. Relying on backpackers
as the main engine for growth seems to be a risky proposition. |