In 1982 India formulated its one and only National Tourism Policy.
The objective of this policy is to so develop tourism that it:
1. Becomes a unifying force nationally and internationally fostering better understanding;
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2. Helps preserving Indian heritage and culture and projecting the same to the world.
3. brings socio-economic benefits in terms of employment, income generation, revenue generation, foreign exchange etc;
4. Gives direction and opportunity to the youth of the country to understand the aspirations and view point of others and helps in greater national integration;
5. Offers opportunities to the youth of country, not only for employment but also for taking up activities for nation- building and character building like sports, adventure, etc.
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Interestingly, the new tourism policy in the changed scenario has:
1. Placed tourism as a central input in the economic development process because of its role in resource generation and employment creation;
2. focused on the role of tourism in socio-economic development of the backward areas, weaker sections, women and artisans;
3. Allowed these goals to be pursued in tune with the goal of the enrichment of the environment and the ecosystem; and
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4. Recognized the role of tourism as a potent global force for national and international understanding and for creating awareness for sustainable development.
Any policy for sustainable development will naturally revolve around the following cardinal principles:
1. That there is need for striking a balance between development and conservation;
2. That there is need for commitment of the nation as a whole to the goals of sustainable tourism development.
3. That adequate, effective and pragmatic control systems are devised and are efficiently put into place; and
4. That the policy incorporates and motivates cooperation’s of the local community who must perceive the benefit of such participation and should be able to partake the same.