What is the development of tourism act 1969?

India's first legislative measure dedicated to the promotion and development of tourism was the Development of Tourism Act, 1969. Let's explore its key provisions:

Establishment of the Department of Tourism:

- To promote and develop tourism, the central government established the Department of Tourism under the Ministry of Tourism and Culture.

- This department focused on formulating and implementing policies, programs, and schemes aimed at attracting both domestic and international tourists to India.

Department of Tourism Functions:

- Promotion and Publicity: The department's primary responsibility was to promote India as a tourist destination through publicity campaigns, advertising, and participation in international tourism fairs and exhibitions.

- Infrastructure Development: It facilitated the development and maintenance of tourism infrastructure, including tourist complexes, hotels, motels, restaurants, transport facilities, and tourist circuits.

- Coordination and Standardization: The act ensured coordination between central government agencies, state governments, and other organizations involved in tourism-related activities. It aimed to standardize services related to travel, tours, catering, and accommodations.

- Travel Agencies: The act authorized the department to register travel agencies and tour operators to ensure reliable services for tourists.

Advisory Committee:

- To advise the government on matters related to tourism development, the act provided for the establishment of the Central Tourism Advisory Committee, consisting of representatives from various stakeholders, including government agencies, tourism industry professionals, and experts in the field.

Tourism Advisory Committees:

- Tourism Advisory Committees were established at state levels to advise state governments on tourism-related matters and assist in the formulation and implementation of tourism policies and programs.

Funding for Tourism Development:

- The act made provisions for the Central Government and state governments to provide financial assistance for the development and promotion of tourism, including grants, loans, and subsidies for setting up tourism-related infrastructure and facilities.

Protection of Tourists:

- To ensure the safety and satisfaction of tourists, the act empowered state governments to establish Tourist Officers who could investigate complaints from tourists, take necessary action to resolve issues, and provide assistance as required.

The Development of Tourism Act, 1969, marked a significant milestone in the Indian tourism industry by creating an institutional framework for tourism development and promotion, fostering collaboration among stakeholders, and providing a mechanism to address tourist concerns.