Catapulting Tourism with VoA
MOT has been pushing for visa-on-arrival for maximum number of countries to increase tourism into India, and the recent sanction from the Home Ministry has been heartily welcomed. On being asked why we would give the visa-on-arrival facility to countries that don’t reciprocate, Rajiv Shukla, Planning Minister, GOI, has said very correctly that we need them more than they need us.
If the government can match improved infrastructure, safety for women, and security then India is on its way to becoming one of the most preferred tourist destinations. MOT’s ‘Clean India’ campaign to sensitise all sections of society on the importance of cleanliness and hygiene at monuments and tourist destinations is being pushed through by the Ministry with persuasion, education, training, and by involving private and public stakeholders as a part of their CSR activities.
The airports will need to be well-equipped to deal with the increased number of tourists expected under this category. The advantage will be totally hampered if people have to wait for hours in queue. The eight months to October (the start of high season), when the VoA and electronic applications become a reality, should be enough time to move systems into place for this. We do have the experience of VoA for 11 countries already.
There is a sudden excitement in the industry. International airlines are increasing their flights and the number of destinations they fly to in India. Hotels should speed up their unfinished projects and states need to market their tourist cities and festivals internationally to exploit the situation to its fullest. MOT takes part in many travel marts around the world, giving the industry an affordable option to promote their products. Tour operators, DMCs and OTAs need to now take maximum advantage of this opportunity.
Increase in tourism, both leisure and business, will not only benefit the industry but also help in increased employment and boost earnings for the country – not only through metro cities but also by sustaining small towns that hold the fascination for tourists.