PROSPECT OF WILDLIFE TOURISM IN ASSAM-

A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS WITH OTHER TOP 5 TOURISM

DEVELOPED STATES IN INDIA
REPORT SUBMITTED IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE
REQUIREMENT FOR THE DEGREE OF

MASTERS IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

BY

DEBANGA BORPUJARI

Roll Number: 80/14

Registration Number: 092528 of 2013-14

UNDER THE GUIDANCE OF

DR. MONOJ KUMAR CHOWDHURY

PROFESSOR

DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

GAUHATI UNIVERSITY

GUWAHATI, INDIA, JUNE 2019

1
 DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

GAUHATI UNIVERSITY

GUWAHATI, INDIA

DECLARATION

I, Debanga Borpujari, hereby declare that this project entitled “PROSPECT OF

WILDLIFE TOURISM IN ASSAM” has been prepared by me, in partial
requirement of the degree of “Masters in Business Administration”, under
Gauhati University.

This report has not formed the basis for the award of any degree/diploma from any
other University.

Date:

DEBANGA BORPUJARI

MBA (DUAL), 12th semester

Department of Business
Administration

Gauhati University

2
 DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

GAUHATI UNIVERSITY

GUWAHATI, INDIA

Date:

CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that Debanga Borpujari of 12th Semester, MBA DUAL (Master of
Business Administration), Gauhati University, has completed the project on “PROSPECT OF
WILDLIFE TOURISM IN ASSAM” under my guidance, for duration of 3 months (1st
February to 31st May, 2019). He has submitted a report on the above topic to the Department.

I recommend submission of this project report as a part for partial fulfilment of the
requirements for the degree of Masters in Business Administration.

With best wishes,

__________________________

(Dr. Monoj Kumar Chowdhury)

Professor

Department of Business Administration

Gauhati University

3
 DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

GAUHATI UNIVERSITY

GUWAHATI, INDIA

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

I express my sincere gratitude to Sir Dr. Pradeep Kumar Jain, Head of the
Department of Business Administration; Gauhati University for giving me the
opportunity to carry out my 12th Semester Project.

I express my sincere gratitude to my guide Dr. Monoj Kumar Chowdhury,

Professor, Department of Business Administration, Gauhati University for his
valuable help and support in my work.

I also express my sincere thanks to the entire faculty members of the Department
of Business Administration for their valuable advice and encouragement.

___________________________

Debanga Borpujari

Roll number: 80/14

Registration Number: 092528 of 2013-14

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 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
• Title Of The Project: PROSPECT OF WILDLIFE TOURISM IN ASSAM-A
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS WITH OTHER TOP 5 TOURISM
DEVELOPED STATES IN INDIA

• Institutional Guide: Dr. Monoj Kumar Chowdhury, Professor, Dept. Of

Business Administration, Gauhati University.

• Period Of Study: Three Months

• Objectives Of Project:

➢ To examine the present status of tourism in Assam with other top 5 tourism
developed states of India.
➢ To identify eco-tourism destinations in Assam other than the National Parks.
➢ To observe the trend of tourists’ inflow and revenue collection from tourism
in Assam over the years.
➢ To identify the obstacles in the development of tourism in the state.

• The Research Design: Descriptive and Analytical

• Data type: Secondary
• Data Source: E-journals, Government Websites, Ministry of Tourism, Assam,
India Tourism Statistics.

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 Table of Contents
Serial No. Content Page no.

1 Introduction 1-4
1.1 Tourism and its importance for a nation
1.2 About Wildlife Tourism
1.3 Eco Tourism and its importance
1.4 Background of Assam
1.5 Wildlife Tourism in Assam
1.6 Objectives of the Study
2 Background and Review of Literature 5-30
2.1 Background

2.2 Literature Review

3 Research Methodology 31
3.1 Research Design

3.2 Data type and data source

4 Preliminary Findings 32-47

4.1 The Present Status of Tourism Scenario in

Assam

4.2 Distribution of Classified Hotel & Hotel

Rooms near to Tourist Destinations in India, as on
31st December, 2016

4.3 Tourist Inflow to the National Parks of Assam

4.4 Potentialities of ecotourism in Assam

4.5 Places Where Eco Tourism Industry can be

further developed

4.6 Problems of Tourism as well as Ecotourism

4.7 Suggestions to Improve the Tourism Scenario

in Assam

5 Statement of Limitations 48

6
6 Findings and Conclusion 49-50

7 Questionnaire for Tourists who visited Kaziranga

National Park

8 References 51

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 Chapter 1

Introduction
1.1 Tourism and its importance for a nation

Tourism is travel for pleasure or business. It can also be defined as the theory and practice of
touring, the business of attracting, accommodating, and entertaining tourists, and the business of
operating tours. The World Tourism Organization (WTO) defines tourism more generally, in
terms which go "beyond the common perception of tourism as being limited to holiday activity
only", as people "traveling to and staying in places outside their usual environment for not more
than one consecutive year for leisure and not less than 24 hours, business and other purposes".
Tourism may be international, or within the traveller's country.

Tourism is considered as an important industry in 21st century. It has vast scope for the
generation of income and employment. Assam is the land of varied exhilarating existing and
potential tourist sites. It has unique natural beauty with flora and fauna, historical monuments,
pilgrim center, tea gardens and its colorful cultural festivals. Moreover the wildlife sanctuaries at
various places of Assam can also attract the tourists all over the world.

Tourism has great capacity to create large scale employment of diverse kind – from the most
specialized to the unskilled and hence can play a major role in creation of additional employment
opportunities. It can also play an important role in achieving growth with equity. The Ministry of
Tourism has the main objective of increasing and facilitating tourism in India.

1.2 About Wildlife Tourism

Wildlife tourism is an element of many nations' travel industry centered on observation and
interaction with local animal and plant life in their natural habitats. While it can include eco- and
animal-friendly tourism, safari hunting and similar high-intervention activities also fall under the
umbrella of wildlife tourism. Wildlife tourism, in its simplest sense, is interacting with wild
animals in their natural habitat, either by actively (e.g. hunting/collection) or passively (e.g.
watching/photography). Wildlife tourism is an important platform to investigate the relationship
between people and nature. Wildlife tourism is an important part of the tourism industries in
many countries including many African and South American countries, Australia, India, Canada,
Indonesia, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Maldives among many. It has experienced a
dramatic and rapid growth in recent years worldwide and many elements are closely aligned
to eco-tourism and sustainable tourism. “Sustainable tourism” is the concept of visiting

8
somewhere as a tourist and trying to make a positive impact on the environment, society, and
economy.

Like the two phases of a coin, wildlife tourism is also bejeweled with two perceptions. As per
one opinion, wildlife must be set apart from tourism, so as to protect the endangered species. On
the other hand, a different school of thoughts promotes wildlife tourism as a means
of conservation. Indian wildlife tourism supports the second set of opinion. Increased Wildlife
Tourism generates revenues for the nation or state. This revenue is then further utilized to for the
welfare of the wildlife dwelling in different parks and sanctuaries. Government also utilizes these
funds and revenues for developing the infrastructures of these tourist destinations. Wildlife
tourism promotes awareness about fauna and flora species. These tours bring people closer to the
nature and make them understand the ecological importance of wildlife.

1.2 Eco Tourism and its importance

According to the World Tourism Organization (WTO), tourism that involves travelling to
relatively undisturbed natural areas with the specified objective of studying, admiring and
enjoying the scenery and its wild plants and animals, as well as any existing cultural aspects
(both of the past and the present) found in these areas is defined as ecotourism. Eco Tourism is
beneficial for the tourists as they get to know about many unexplored places and wildlife. Eco
tourism promotes economic stability for a state or country. Some of the principles of eco-tourism
are:-

• Minimize physical, social, behavioral, and psychological impacts

• Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect

• Provide positive experiences for both visitors and local people

• Provide direct financial benefits for environmental conservation

• Generate financial benefits for both local people and private industry

• Deliver memorable interpretative experiences to visitors that help raise sensitivity to host
countries’ political, environmental, and social climates

• Design, construct and operate low-impact facilities

1.4 Background of Assam:

Assam, the heart of Eastern Sun, a jewel in the crown of North East, is a state of breathtaking
scenic beauty. Assam lies beneath the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas sharing boundaries with
all other north – eastern states of India, with the sacred Brahmaputra River flowing right through
its middle. Assam is bordered in the north and east by Bhutan and Arunachal Pradesh. Along

9
the south lies Nagaland, Manipur and to the extreme south is Mizoram. Meghalaya is lies to the
south west and West Bengal to the west of Assam.

Assam occupies a very important position in the political map of India by virtue of her
geographical situation. It is the north – eastern sentinel of the frontlines of India and gateway to
the north–eastern region. It provides the focal points of transport and communication to its
neighboring states. The total area of the State is 78438 square kilometers and a population of
35.0184 million (2018).

Tourism’s contribution to Assam’s GDP is around 5.5% and provided 10.5% of the total
employment in the state.

1.5 Wildlife Tourism in Assam

Fig 1.5(a) A one-horned rhinoceros of Kaziranga National Park

Image source: https://www.kaziranga-national-park.com/

10
 Fig 1.5(b) A Tiger in Kaziranga National Park

Image source: https://www.kaziranga-national-park.com/

➢ An attractive feature of the Assam’s forestry is its colourful wildlife. Some of species are
exclusive to the state. Assam is famous for as the home of one-horned rhinoceros. Some of
the endangered species found in the state are hollock gibbon, the stamp tailed macaque, the
capped langoor, the golden langoor, the pigmy hog, the clouded leopard, the golden cat, the
white winged wood-duck. All these can make Assam as one of the best destination of the
tourists.
➢ Most of the domestic and international tourists attract towards Kaziranga, but other eighteen
wildlife sanctuaries and four national parks can also be a major wildlife destination for the
tourist of the world.
➢ There are five National Parks and eleven wildlife and bird sanctuaries for protection and
preservation of wildlife in the state. The five National Parks – Kaziranga, Manas, Nameri,
Orang and Dibru-Saikhowa covers an area of 1977.79 square kilometres. The total area
covered by the wildlife sanctuaries is 1840.15 square kilometres. Kaziranga National Park
and Manas National Park are UNESCO World Heritage Site.
➢ The Assam National Park Act, 1968 was enacted for the preservation and protection of flora
and fauna in the wildlife parks and sanctuaries. The Assam Forest Protection Force Act, 1986
was enacted for better protection and security of the forest produce. However, the state of
affair in the Forest Protection Force is sad. This is testified to by the fact that the endangered
species like rhinoceros are the regular victims of human lust and there is hardly any visible
preventive measure to stop such acts of poaching. The forest guards are still provided with
out-dated equipment to counter the poacher with sophisticated arms.

1.6 Objectives of the Study:

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 • To examine the present status of tourism in Assam with other top 5 tourism developed
states of India.
• To identify eco-tourism destinations in Assam other than the National Parks.
• To observe the trend of tourists’ inflow and revenue collection from tourism in Assam
over the years.
• To identify the obstacles in the development of tourism in the state.

Chapter 2

Background and Review of Literature

2.1 Background

The purpose of this project is to get an insight of the Wildlife Tourism in Assam. Assam is a
North Eastern state of India with one of the richest bio diversities in the world. It consists of
tropical rainforests, deciduous forests, riverine grasslands, bamboo orchards and numerous
wetland ecosystems. Many are now protected as national parks and reserved forests, where
highly endangered species like the Golden Langoor, White-winged Wood Duck or Deohanh and
the Bengal Florican have found refuge.

Assam is blessed with an abundance of scenic grandeur. A wealth of rarest and near extinct
species of wildlife, verdant forests, somber hills, undulating green plains and mighty water ways
are her main attractions. The species of wild life like the one horned Asiatic Rhino, the Golden
Langoor, the Pigmy Hog, the Hispid Hare, the White winged wood duck, have made Assam their
home. Elephants, Bisons, Water Buffaloes, Hollock gibbons, several species of deer and
thousand other varieties of wild-life and myriads of resident and migratory birds can be seen in
the wild life sanctuaries.

The sub-tropical climate of Assam, the heavy rainfall in the monsoon season, the lush green
forests and the powerful Brahmaputra river and its numerous tributaries have made this region
the home to many different types of wildlife. Assam has now become a popular wildlife tourism
destination due to its five national parks and fifteen sanctuaries.

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There are five National Parks and eleven wildlife and bird sanctuaries for protection and
preservation of wildlife in the state. The five National Parks – Kaziranga, Manas, Nameri, Orang
and Dibru-Saikhowa covers an area of 1977.79 square kilometres. The total area covered by the
wildlife sanctuaries is 1840.15 square kilometres.

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Table 2.1 (a) Some famous wildlife destinations in India
Serial National Park or Destination Name State Species to see
No.

1. Ranthambore National Park Rajasthan Tigers, leopards, Hyenas,

Jackals, Jungle cats, Indian
Foxes and a wide range of
birds like Pelicans, Ibis,
Flamingos, Egrets,
Parakeets.

2. Sunderbans National Park West Bengal The Royal Bengal Tiger,

Crocodiles, bull sharks,
primates and snakes,
dolphins

3. Jim Corbett National Park Uttarakhand Tigers, Spotted deer,

Elephants, Golden jackal,
sambar deers

4. Gir National Park Gujarat Asiatic Lions, Indian

leopards, sloth bears, jungle
cats, striped hyenas, snakes,
blackbucks, crocodiles,
monitor lizards

5. Bannerghatta Biological Park Karnataka Tigers, leopards, Elephants,

spotted deer, barking deer,
butterflies, snakes

6. Kaziranga National Park Assam Tigers, Rhinos, Elephants,

Swamp deer, Wild Buffalo

7. Periyar National Park Kerala Elephants, Tigers,

Leopards, Deer, snakes and
reptiles

8. Bandhavgarh National Park Madhya Pradesh Bengal tigers, Elephants,

deer, primates, reptiles and
a large number of birds

9. Hemis National Park Jammu Kashmir Snow leopard, the Asiatic

Ibex, the red fox, Tibetan
wolf, Himalayan marmot,
Blue sheep

10. The Great Himalayan National Park – Himachal Pradesh The snow leopard, musk
deer, primates, Himalayan
pit viper.

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11. Tadoba Maharashtra Tigers, Sambar deer, Indian
Python, marsh crocodile,
striped hyena.

12. Nanda Devi Uttarakhand Asiatic black bear, blue

sheep, Himalayan musk
deer

13. Khangchendzonga Sikkim Musk deer, snow leopard,

red panda

14. Panna National Park Madhya Pradesh Tiger, leopard, sloth bear,
sambar, nilgai

15. Bera Rajasthan Leopards, flamingos, crane,

geese, hyena, deers

16. Bhitarkanika National Park Odisha Giant saltwater crocodiles,

water monitor lizards,
cobras, and other snakes

17. Jhalana Reserve Forest Rajasthan Leopards, birds like shikra,

white-eyed buzzard,
peacock

18. Manas National Park Assam Tigers, elephant, golden

langur, Assam roofed turtle,
pygmy hog

19. Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary Rajasthan Cranes, Pelicans, Ducks,

Flycatchers, Wagtails

20. Kanha National Park Madhya Pradesh Tiger, Gaur, Sambhar,

Chital, Python, leopard,
Porcupine

The first national park in India was declared in 1935, now famous as the Corbett National Park in
Uttarakhand. Since Independence, there has been a steady rise in the number of Protected Areas
(PAs) (National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries), especially after the enactment of the Wildlife
Protection Act in 1972.

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Table 2.1 (b) Biodiversity Estimation of Assam

Name Number

Flowering plant 3017

Wild orchids 193+

Bamboos 42

Canes 14

Mammals 164+

Primates 9

Birds 800+ (280 migratory birds )

Amphibians 60+

Butterflies 1500 (approx)

Reptiles 116 (approx)

Source: Department of Environment and Forests, Government of Assam

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Table 2.1(c) List of National Parks in Assam:

S.I No. Name of National Park Year District Area(km^2) Species to see

1. Dibru-Saikhowa National Park 1999 Dibrugarh and 340 Feral Horse, Wood Duck,
Tinsukia Elephant

2. Kaziranga National Park 1974 Golaghat, 858.98 One Horned Rhino,

Nagoan and Swamp Deer, Elephant,
Sonitpur Tiger, Bengal Florican,
Buffalo
3. Manas National Park 1990 Chirang and 500 Golden Langur, Pigmy
Baksa Hog, Hispid Hare,
Elephant
4. Nameri National Park 1998 Sonitpur 200 Wood Duck, Hornbill,
Capped Langur

5. Rajiv Gandhi Orang National 1999 Darrang and 78.81 Rhino, Elephant,
Park Sonitpur Leopard, Green Pigeon,
Barking Deer

We can infer from the above list that Kaziranga National Park is the oldest and largest National park in Assam with
a land area of 858.98 square kilometers and Rajiv Gandhi Orang National Park is the newest and smallest land area
of 78.81 square kilometers.

Table 2.1(d) List of Wildlife Sanctuaries and Bird Sanctuaries in Assam:

S.I No. Name of WLS Established year District Area(km^2) Species to see

1 Amchang WLS 2004 Kamrup 78.64 Vulture, Python,

Cobra, Butterflies
2 Borail WLS 2004 Cachar 326.25 Himalayan Black
Deer, Horn Bill,
Clouded Leopard
3 Bor nadi WLS 1980 Udalguri 26.22 Pigmy Hog,
Elephant, Hornbill,
Hispid Hare
4 Bherjan-Borajan- 1999 Tinisukia 7.22 Hoolock Gibbon,
Padumoni WLS Pigtailed Macaque,
Stump Tailed
Macaque
5 Burha sapori WLS 1995 Sonitpur 44.06 Water Buffalo,
Aquatic Bird,
Bengal Florican,
Rhino

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6 Chakrashila WLS 1994 Dhubri and 45.56 Golden Langur And
Kokrajhar Aquatic Bird
7 Deepor Beel Bird WLS - Kamrup 4.14 Aquatic and
migratory birds
8 Dehing Patkai WLS 2004 Dibrugarh 111.19 Hoolock
and gibbon, slow
Tinisukia loris, pig-tailed
macaque, stump-
tailed
macaque, capped
langur, Asian
elephant, Bengal
tiger, Indian
leopard, gaur etc.
9 East Karbi Anglong WLS 2000 Diphu and 221.81 Indian
Karbi pangolin, small
Anglong Indian civet, pig-
tailed macaque,
leopard
cat, sambar, barking
deer, porcupine,
mongoose, king
cobra etc
10 Garampani WLS 1952 Golaghat 6.05 Elephant, Hoolock
Gibbon And Birds
11 Lawkhowa WLS 1972 Nagaon 70.14 Wild Buffalo,
Swamp Deer, Duck,
Cormorant, Rhino
12 Nambor WLS 2000 Golaghat 37 Elephant
13 Nambor Doigrung WLS 2003 97.15 Elephant And
Hoolock Gibbon
14 Porbitora WLS 1987 Morigaon 38.81 One Horned Rhino,
Leopard, Tiger
15 Pani-Dihing Bird WLS 1995 Sivsagar 33.93 Aquatic birds,
migratory birds
16 Sonai Rupai WLS 1998 Sonitpur 220 Tiger, Elephant,
Hornbill
17 Bordoibam- Beelmukh 1996 Dhemaji and 11.25 Aquatic and
Lakhimpur migratory birds
18 Marat Longri 1998 Karbi 451 Elephant, Tiger,
Anglong Leopard, Lesser
Cat, Barking Deer,
Wild Pig,
Porcupine, Slow
Loris, Pangolin,
Banded Krait, Rock
Python, Monitor
Lizard,Tortoise

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The purpose of this project report is to find out the changes in tourist visits to these wildlife
tourist destinations over the years and also their impact on the economy of Assam.

The North Eastern part of India is a famous tourist destination place for its astounding beauty,
greenery, hills, waterfalls and its rich bio diversity.

The Kaziranga National Park in Assam which is famous for its One Horned Rhinoceros (1855),
Wild Water Buffalo (1666) and Eastern Swamp Deer (468) attracts thousands of tourists in a
year. Over the time, the tiger population has also increased in Kaziranga, and that's the reason
why Kaziranga was declared as Tiger Reserve in 2006. The best time to visit Kaziranga National
Park is November to April as every year the water of the Brahmaputra River floods the park
during monsoon.

Foreign tourist arrivals in Assam showed a marked increase with 37,840 foreigners visiting the
state between April 2016 and October 2017. The tourists were from France, USA, Germany,
Austria, Croatia, Russia, Netherlands and other countries.

While 26,320 foreigners had visited Assam in 2015-16, 20,005 foreign tourists came to the state
in 2014-15. There were 19,086, 17,708 and 16,000 foreign visitors in 2013-14, 2012-13 and
2011-12 respectively. It is seen that number of tourists in a year visiting Assam is increasing.

Under the Swadesh Darshan scheme, a wildlife circuit was being developed in Manas, Pobitora,
Nameri, Kaziranga, Pani Dihing Bird Sanctuary and Dibru Saikhowa, with a sanctioned amount
of Rs 95.67 crore.

The Vision Statement of the Tourism Policy of Assam, 2017 is:

“Assam becomes a nationally and internationally acclaimed all-season Tourist destination for its
unique wildlife, bio-diversity and experience of an unexploited wonderland. Tourism is to be one
of the main sources of income-generation for the people. It will also be a vibrant and significant
contributor to the sustainable development of the State of Assam.”

2.2 Literature Review

Below are the surveys that are related to our project work:

1. “Tourism in Assam: Status and Prospects” - of Planning Commission

2. “Profile of Tourism Scenario in Assam”

3. International Journal of Innovative Research in Science, Engineering and Technology

Vol. 4, Issue 2, February 2015- “Prospects and Problems of Tourism Industry in Assam”

19
4. International Journal of Advanced Educational Research Volume 2; Issue 5; September
2017; Page No. 70-73 -“Prospects and problems of tourism in Assam” by Runumi Das
Assistant Professor, Department of Economics, Bikali College, Dhupdhara, Goalpara,
Assam, India.

5. “20-Year Perspective Tourism Plan for the State of Assam”, February 2003 by
Government of India Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Department Of Tourism, Market
Research Division.

6. MINISTRY OF TOURISM GOVERNMENT OF INDIA- “REPORT OF THE

WORKING GROUP ON TOURISM 11TH FIVE YEAR PLAN (2007- 12)”

7. MINISTRY OF TOURISM GOVERNMENT OF INDIA- “REPORT OF THE

WORKING GROUP ON TOURISM 12th FIVE YEAR PLAN (2012- 17)”

8. International Journal of Social Science and Economic Research, Volume:03, Issue:09

"September 2018"- “POTENTIALITIES AND STATUS OF TOURISM IN ASSAM”

9. DEVELOPING LINKAGE BETWEEN WILDLIFE TOURISM AND HANDICRAFT

FOR LOCAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: A CASE STUDY OF KAZIRANGA
NATIONAL PARK by DEEP JYOTI GURUNG and CHANDAN GOSWAMI

10. ANNUAL REPORT 2017-18 by Ministry Of Tourism, Government of India

11. “Wildlife Watching and Tourism-A study on the benefits and risks of a fast growing
activity and its impact on species” by Richard Tapper, Environment Business &
Development Group.

12. “Ecotourism in Assam: A Promising Opportunity for Development” by Meena Kumari

Devi, Associate Professor, Economics, S.D College, Hajo, Assam. INDIA.

13. “Ecotourism and Dibru-Saikhowa National Park” by Ms. Geetirekha Dutta Mahanta
HOD Department of Zoology Doomdooma College, India.

14. “Tourism Sector in Assam: Its Economic Contribution and Challenges” by Purabi Gogoi
Research Scholar, Dept. of Economics, Dibrugarh University, Assam, India.

15. Wildlife Tourism – New Study, New Revelations by Krithi K. Karanth published on
http://www.conservationindia.org, 2012.

20
 16. "How the Wildlife tourism is growing in India and to what is the percentage of Indian
visitors" published on https://www.thehansindia.com, May 2019.

S.I No. Name of the book or Key Learning Relevance with present Research Gap Remarks
journal topic

1. “Tourism in Assam: • Tourism Potential in • Tourism in Assam • Absence of Was

Status and Prospects” Assam • Wildlife tourism in latest data on Helpful in
– of Planning • Existing places of tourist Assam. wildlife my
research
Commission attraction • Eco tourism in Assam. tourism and
• Types of tourism in Assam • Trend of Tourist eco-tourism in
➢ Religious tourism in inflow (Domestic and Assam.
Assam Foreign) to Assam.
➢ Wildlife tourism in • Revenue earned from
Assam tourists.
➢ Tea tourism in Assam • Impact of
➢ Eco tourism infrastructure
➢ Golf tourism development on
➢ Adventure tourism Tourism
• Statistics of Indian and
Foreign tourists’ inflow to
Assam from 1995 to 2000.
• Revenue earned from
tourists for the financial
years 1996-97, 1997-98,
1998-99, and 1999-2000.
2. “Profile of Tourism • Tourism in India Pre • About Wildlife and • Absence of Was
Scenario in Assam” Independence nature tourism latest Helpful in
• Tourism in India Post • About eco-tourism statistical data my
about tourist research
Independence • Schemes taken by inflows and
• Organizational set up of Government to revenue
the Ministry of Tourism. promote tourism in collection
• Regional Tourism offices Assam.
in India and Overseas • About Regional
➢ The Ministry of Tourism office in
tourism has five Guwahati and its
Regional offices functions.
located at Kolkata • Sub regional offices
➢ (East), Mumbai outside India and its
(west), Delhi (North), role in promoting
Chennai (South), and Indian tourism

21
 Guwahati (North destinations, products
East). etc.
➢ The Ministry of • About Regional
Tourism Government Tourist Advisory
of India also included Committees
six numbers of specifically the
Regional overseas Eastern Region.
offices at Sydney, • Tourism-Specific
Frankfurt, Tokyo, Products Related to
Dubai, London and Visitor Consumption
New York.
➢ There are eight
number of sub
regional offices
located at Toronto,
Paris, Milan,
Amsterdam, Los
Angeles,
Johannesburg ,
Singapore, and Beijing
➢ The prime object of
these overseas offices
is to increase tourism
overseas marketing
network about the
Indian tourism
destination, Indian
tourism product etc.
➢ Creation of tourism
circuit depending on
India’s unique
civilization, Heritage,
culture and natural
beauty.
➢ Maximization of
foreign tourist
satisfaction and ‘feel
India from within.

• Regional Tourist Advisory

Committees
➢ Northern Region:
Includes Jammu and
Kashmir, Punjab,
Haryana, Rajasthan,
Uttar Pradesh,
Himachal Pradesh,
Delhi and Chandigarh.
➢ Western Region: This

22
 region includes
Maharashtra, Gujarat,
Madhya Pradesh and
Goa.
➢ Southern Region:
Consists of Tamil
Nadu, Kerala,
Karnataka, Andhra
Pradesh and
Pondicherry.
➢ Eastern Region: West
Bengal, Assam, Bihar,
Orissa, Nagaland,
Tripura, Manipur,
Andaman and Nicobar
Islands are included in
this region.
• National Tourism Policy
2002
➢ Recognized the
tourism as the prime
sector of economic
development.
➢ Tourism as a means of
providing employment
opportunity, economic
development and also
for impetus to rural
tourism.
➢ Importance on
domestic tourism to
the development of
tourism sector.
➢ Cater the global
tourism market and
position India in top
tourist destination in
world.
➢ Private participation
with government
sector as a proactive
facilitator and catalyst.
• Tourism Schemes
➢ Product and
infrastructure
development for
destinations and
circuits.
➢ Rural Tourism

23
 Infrastructure
Development.
➢ Scheme for integrated
development of
tourist’s circuits
➢ Scheme of Assistance
for large revenue
generating projects.
➢ Scheme of capacity
building for service
providers (CBSP).
➢ Scheme of Rural
Tourism
➢ Scheme of financial
assistance to states for
organizing tourism
related.
➢ Scheme of Central
Finance Assistance for
IT projects.
➢ Scheme for support to
public private
partnerships in
Infrastructure
(viability Gap
Funding)
➢ Scheme for Market
Development
Assistance.
3. “Prospects and • Prospects of tourism in • Eco tourism • Absence of Helpful in
Problems of Tourism Assam • Wildlife tourism latest my
Industry in Assam” by • Trend of tourist inflow in • Tourist inflow data statistical data research
Surjya Chutia into Assam from about tourist
Assam over the years.
1990-2008 inflows and
Assistant Professor, • Problems of tourism in
• Problems of tourism in revenue
Dept of Economics, Assam collection.
Assam.
Tinsukia College, ➢ Inconsistency in • Impact of
Tinsukia, Assam, maintaining proper infrastructure
India. Tourism Policy of development on
Assam. Tourism
➢ Restricted Area Permit
(RAP) enforced on a
foreigner when
visiting Assam.
➢ Frequent Insurgencies
➢ Lack of Infrastructure
such as proper roads,
railway, hotels and
accommodation etc.
➢ Lack of Coordinated

24
 Efforts among all the
agencies in the
industry.
➢ Absence of trained
Tourist Guides
4. “Prospects and • The various tourism • Eco Tourism • Absence of Helpful in
problems of tourism in destinations in Assam • Wildlife Tourism latest my
• statistical data research
Assam” by Runumi Different types of tourism • Problems associated
Das Assistant about tourist
in Assam with tourism industry inflows and
Professor, Department ➢ Spiritual Tourism in Assam. revenue
of Economics, Bikali ➢ Ethnic Tourism • Threats of tourism collection.
College, Dhupdhara, ➢ River Tourism industry in Assam.
Goalpara, Assam, ➢ Eco Tourism • Impact of
India ➢ Wildlife Tourism infrastructure
➢ Tea Tourism development on
➢ Adventure tourism Tourism
• The potentialities of
tourism in Assam.
• Problems which affect the
tourism industry
• Problems associated with
tourism industry in Assam.
• Threats of tourism industry
in Assam.

5. “20-Year Perspective • Tourist’s destinations in • Tourist’s destinations • Absence of Helpful in

Tourism Plan for the Assam. in Assam. latest my
State of Assam”, • Different types of tourism • Different types of statistical data research
about tourist
February 2003 by in Assam tourism in Assam inflows and
Government of India • Strategy for Heritage • Strategy for Heritage revenue
Ministry of Tourism Conservation Conservation collection.
and Culture, • Strategy for Bio Diversity • Strategy for Bio
Department Of Conservation Diversity
Tourism, Market • Need for Central financial Conservation
Research Division assistance to state • Impact of
government. infrastructure
• Institutional Assistance development on
Tourism
• Package Of Incentives For
Promoting Private
Investment In The Tourism
Sector
• State government
incentives to the Private
Sector
• Private Sector Participation
• Economic benefit of
tourism.
• Cost benefit analysis

25
 • Employment Generation
• Marketing Strategy
• Tourism Policy
➢ Background
➢ Tenth Five Year Plan
➢ Need Of Tourism
Policy
➢ A Review Of National
Tourism Policy
➢ Suggested Policy
Framework For Assam

6. MINISTRY OF • Strategy for Tourism • Tourism products • Absence of Was

TOURISM Development in the 11th • Creation of world latest Somewhat
GOVERNMENT OF Five Year Plan. class infrastructure. statistical data helpful in
about tourist my
INDIA- “REPORT ➢ Positioning and • Developing strategies
inflows and research
OF THE WORKING maintaining tourism for sustained and
revenue
GROUP ON development as a effective marketing
collection.
TOURISM 11TH FIVE plans and programs.
national priority • Absence of
YEAR PLAN (2007- activity. specific
12)” ➢ Enhancing and knowledge on
maintaining the wildlife and
eco-tourism in
competitiveness of Assam.
India as a tourist
destination.
➢ Improving India’s
existing tourism
products further and
expanding these to
meet new market
requirements.
➢ Creation of world
class infrastructure.
➢ Developing strategies
for sustained and
effective marketing
plans and programs.
➢ Developing Human
Resources and
capacity Building of
Service Providers.
Developing Human
Resources and
capacity Building of
Service Providers.
• Publicity and Marketing
➢ Domestic Promotion
and publicity.

26
 ➢ Overseas promotion
and publicity
including Marketing
Development
Assistance.
7. MINISTRY OF • Strategy for Tourism • Tourism products • Absence of Was
TOURISM Development in the 12th • Creation of world latest somewhat
GOVERNMENT OF Five Year Plan. class infrastructure. statistical data Helpful in
about tourist my
INDIA- “REPORT • Various Targets for • Developing strategies
inflows and research
OF THE WORKING Tourism Sector for sustained and
revenue
GROUP ON ➢ As Tourism Sector is effective marketing
collection.
TOURISM 12th FIVE plans and programs.
one of the major • Absence of
YEAR PLAN (2012- component of the specific
17)” service sector in India, knowledge on
wildlife and
its growth targets has
eco-tourism in
to be linked to the Assam.
targeted growth of
service sector during
the 12th Five Year
Plan. Indian economy
is expected to grow at
the rate of 9%. To
achieve this, services
sector as well as the
tourism sector has to
grow at the rate of 12
% per annum. The
current rate of growth
in tourism sector is
about 9 %. For
improving the growth
in tourism sector,
persistent and
concerted efforts have
to be made during the
12th Plan.
➢ To realize the above,
following targets have
been fixed for Foreign
Tourist Arrivals
(FTAs) and Domestic
Tourism.
a. Increase India’s
share of
International
Tourist arrivals to
at least 1 % by
end of 12th Plan –
requiring an

27
 annual growth of
12.38% during
2011- 2016.
b. Provide adequate
facilities for
domestic tourism
to sustain the
growth of 12.16%
(witnessed in
recent years)
during 12th Plan
(2011 to 2016).
• Implications of the targets
• Manpower Requirement in
Hospitality Sector.
• Accommodation Units for
the targeted number of
FTAs and DTVs.
• Skill Development
• Infrastructure
Development
• Marketing, Branding &
Promotion
➢ To undertake
widespread and
aggressive
promotional activities.
➢ Developing new
markets – CIS,
ASEAN, Middle East
and African countries.
➢ Opening new
representative offices
overseas for wider
reach.
➢ Developing and
promoting new
tourism products –
Golf, Polo, Wellness
& Medical, MICE,
Caravan, Cruise,
Adventure and
Wildlife tourism.
• Hygiene and Sanitation.
• Sustainable Tourism
• Safe and Honorable
Tourism
• Development and

28
 Promotion of Niche
Tourism Products

8. POTENTIALITIES • Socio-economic • Wildlife and eco- • NIL Very

AND STATUS OF importance of tourism tourism in Assam. much
TOURISM IN industry • Present status of helpful in
tourism in Assam with my
ASSAM by Atul • Present status of tourism in research
Saikia, Assistant Assam with other top 5 other top 5 tourism
Prof., Dept. of tourism developed states of developed states of
Economics, Dhemaji India. India.
College, Assam, India. • The trend of tourist inflow • The trend of tourist
and revenue collection in inflow and revenue
Assam. collection in Assam.
• The obstacles in the • The obstacles in the
development of tourism in development of
the state tourism in the state
• Measures for the • Measures for the
development of
development of tourism in
tourism in the study
the study area. area.
9. “DEVELOPING • The present scenario of • The present • Absence Was not
LINKAGE handicraft market of scenario of of helpful in
BETWEEN Kaziranga National Park. handicraft market informati my
on on research
WILDLIFE • Possibilities of promoting of Kaziranga
other
TOURISM AND handicrafts among wildlife National Park. National
HANDICRAFT FOR tourists visiting KNP. • Possibilities of parks and
LOCAL ECONOMIC • The price of handicrafts promoting in Assam.
DEVELOPMENT: A and other material cost handicrafts among • No
CASE STUDY OF based on size as on wildlife tourists informati
KAZIRANGA 17/11/2014 visiting KNP. on about
NATIONAL PARK” tourist
• Average daily and monthly inflows
by DEEP JYOTI wages of employees (Craft and
GURUNG and people and assistants) as on revenue
CHANDAN 17/11/2014. collection
GOSWAMI • Customers. from
tourists
➢ In contrary to the
traditional thinking
that tourists are the
main customers of
these handicrafts, the
handicrafts are mostly
purchased by the
people of Assam and
neighboring states
travelling through the
National Highway 37.
• Competition:
➢ There are around

29
 twenty to twenty five
workshops cum shops
in the radius of
Kaziranga National
Park.
➢ Most of the new
entrants have been
trained by former
producers.
➢ After learning the
work properly, the
apprentice starts own
workshop and strives
for share in the same
market.
➢ The market also faces
competition from
entities outside the
KNP region.
• Major Hindrances:
• The handicraft artisans
actually incur a lot of
cost of production the
handicraft in
comparing with the
profit received.
• The market for
handicraft items is
facing competition
from low cost
imported items.
• There is no proper
distribution channel to
sell the products, thus
the artisans are totally
dependent on the
passerby of NH 37 and
tourist visits.
• There is no support
from the government
so far to the local
handicraft artisans.
• There is lack of
coordination and
standardization in the
handicraft market
which is a threat for
sustainability of the

30
 local handicraft
segment.

10. ANNUAL REPORT • Ministry of Tourism and its Somewhat

2017-18 by Ministry Functions. helpful in
Of Tourism, • Ministry of Tourism-Role, my
research
Government of India Synergy and Convergence.
• Development of Tourism
Infrastructure.
• Initiatives for Accessible
Tourism.
• New Tourism Products
(Niche Tourism)
• Hotels and Travel-Trade
• Human Resource
Development
• Publicity and Marketing
➢ Ministry of Tourism
participated in North
East Calling at India
Gate, New Delhi from
9th–10th September.
➢ An Incredible India
pavilion was set up in
an area of 100 square
meters wherein all the
North Eastern states
including Sikkim and
the North East
Tourism Development
Council also
participated.
➢ Financial support was
extended to the
following events:
a) Namami
Brahmaputra,
Guwahati
b) North East Travel
Conclave,
Shillong.
c) Brahmaputra Film
Festival,
Guwahati
• International Coo-
operation
• North-Eastern Region and
Jammu & Kashmir –

31
 Special Emphasis.
• 6th International Tourism
Mart, Guwahati
➢ 6th International
Tourism Mart (ITM)
was organized in
association with the
North Eastern States
from 5-7 December,
2017 in Guwahati,
Assam.
➢ The 6th ITM put the
spotlight on India’s
“Act East Policy”,
blossoming ties with
ASEAN and the larger
East Asia region,
home to the world’s
rapidly growing
economies and India’s
emerging tourism
markets.
• Statistics, Surveys and
Studies.
• Infrastructure projects for
NE region.
• India Tourism
Development Corporation
(ITDC).
➢ Introduction to ITDC
➢ Organizational Setup
➢ Network of ITDC
Services
➢ Subsidiary Companies
a) Utkal Ashok
Hotel Corporation
Ltd.
b) Ranchi Ashok
Bihar Hotel
Corporation Ltd.
c) Pondicherry
Ashok Hotel
Corporation Ltd.
d) Donyi Polo Ashok
Hotel Corporation
Ltd.
e) Punjab Ashok
Hotel Company
Ltd.

32
 ➢ Capital Structure
➢ Financial Performance
➢ Schemes
➢ Ashok Group of
Hotels
➢ Ashok Travels &
Tours (ATT)
➢ Ashok Institute of
Hospitality & Tourism
Management
➢ Public Relations &
Culture Division
➢ Environment
Management
Initiatives
a) The ITDC has
plan budgets for
every year for all
units under which
some percentage
of funds are
utilized towards
environmental
friendly policies
which include
installation / up
gradation of LED
lights, ETP plants
& organic waste
plants etc.
11. “Wildlife Watching • Relationship of wildlife • About wildlife and • No Was not
and Tourism-A study watching tourism to other eco- tourism in the information so helpful
on the benefits and types of tourism. world. about wildlife in my
and eco- research
risks of a fast growing • Tourism and increasing
tourism in
activity and its impact wildlife watching. Assam.
on species” by • The range of wildlife
Richard Tapper, watching activities.
Environment Business • The demand for wildlife
& Development watching tourism: market
Group. size and main market
groups.
• Typology of international
tourists that visit protected
areas.
12. “Ecotourism in • Introduction to Eco • About Eco-tourism in Absence of latest Was
somewhat
Assam: A Promising tourism Assam. statistical data. helpful in my
Opportunity for ➢ Ecotourism is a new • Tourist inflow and research
Development” by form of tourism based Revenue collection
from Tourism in

33
Meena Kumari Devi, on the idea of Assam from 1996 to
Associate Professor, sustainability. The 2011 as per
Economics, S.D concept of ecotourism information provided
College, Hajo, Assam. came into prominence by Directorate of
INDIA in the late 80s as a Tourism, Government
strategy for of Assam.
reconciling • Potentialities of Eco-
conservation with Tourism in Assam.
development in
ecologically rich areas.
Conservation of
natural resources
prevents
environmental
degradation.
• Importance of Eco tourism
➢ Ecotourism confers
social, economic and
environmental benefits
which are the three
pillars of sustainable
development.
• Eco tourism in India:
The government of India
has also formulated certain
policy guidelines for
ecotourism known as
‘Policy Guideline 1998’. In
our country, Kerala
represents a unique picture
of ecotourism. Besides,
Himachal Pradesh,
Karnataka and Sikkim
have also attained success
to some extent. The
government of India has
identified six ecotourism
circuits in the country and
North East is one of them,
which includes places like
Guwahati, Kaziranga,
Majuli, Tezpur, Sibsagar
and Bhalukpung etc in
Assam, Shillong and
Cherrapunji in Meghalaya,
Kohima in Nagaland and
Tawang in Arunachal
Pradesh. The Government
of India has rightly

34
 recognized that Assam has
sufficient potentialities to
develop this world famous
sub sector of the tourism
industry.
• Tourist inflow and
Revenue collection from
Tourism in Assam from
1996 to 2011 as per
information provided by
Directorate of Tourism,
Government of Assam.
• Potentialities of Eco-
Tourism in Assam.
• The prime segments of
Eco-tourism in Assam
➢ Wildlife Tourism
➢ River Tourism
➢ Tea and Golf Tourism
➢ Cultural-Heritage
Tourism
➢ Rural Tourism
• Problems of Tourism as
well as Eco-Tourism
• Insufficient transport
and communication
facilities
• Unavailability of
average standard
accommodation
• Inadequate public
services like PCOs,
ATM systems etc.
• Frequent power cut-
offs
• Communication gaps
between tourists and
people
• Flash floods, heavy
rainfall, waterlogged
roads etc.
• Insurgency problems
of the state
• Poverty and poor
living standards of the
people
• Inefficient and
negative roles of the

35
 media.

13. “Ecotourism and • What is Eco Tourism? • Eco tourism • No Was

Dibru-Saikhowa ➢ Responsible travel to • Wildlife tourism information somewhat
National Park” by Ms. natural areas which • Tourism scenario in and data about helpful in
Dibru-Saikhowa the other my
Geetirekha Dutta conserves the
National Park National Parks research
Mahanta HOD environment and
• Absence of
Department of improves the welfare statistical data
Zoology Doomdooma of the local people is about tourist
College, India. known as Ecotourism. inflows
➢ It is the management
of ecology, in such a
way to obtain
maximum pleasure
with an eye on
conservation needs.
The tourists are
‘responsible’ in the
sense that they never
try to alter the
integrity of the
ecosystem, and are
‘respectful’ to the
fragile environment.
• Ecotourism is based on
four principles – nature
orientation, eco
sustainability, possibility
of conducting research and
involvement of local
people.
• Characteristics of Eco-
tourism:
➢ Involves travel to
natural destinations
➢ Minimizes impact
➢ Builds environmental
awareness
➢ Provides direct
financial benefits for
conservation
➢ Provides financial
benefits and
empowerment for
local people.
➢ Respects local culture
➢ Supports human

36
 rights and democratic
movements.
• Importance of eco-tourism.
• The ecotourism prospects
in Assam.
• Requisites to develop
Dibru-Saikhowa National
Park as a major tourist
attraction spot.
14. “Tourism Sector in • Economic contribution of • Economic contribution • No statistical Was
Assam: Its Economic tourism in Assam. of tourism in Assam. Data on helpful in
Contribution and • Tourist destinations in • Tourist destinations in tourist arrivals my
after 2015 research
Challenges” by Purabi Assam. Assam.
Gogoi Research • Total employment in • Total employment in
Scholar, Dept. of Tourism industries in Tourism industries in
Economics, Dibrugarh Assam and India for the Assam and India for
University, Assam, year 2009-10. the year 2009-10.
India • Indian and Foreign tourists • Indian and Foreign
to Assam and Revenue tourists to Assam and
Earned from the Tourists Revenue Earned from
for the financial years the Tourists for the
2009-10 to 2014-15. financial years 2009-
• Challenges in the 10 to 2014-15.
development of tourism in • Challenges in the
Assam. development of
tourism in Assam.
15. “Wildlife Tourism – • Growth of Wildlife Wildlife tourism and eco - No specific data Was not
New Study, New Tourism in India. tourism and its on tourism helpful in
Revelations” contribution to India scenario of Assam my
research
By Krithi K. Karanth,
2012

16. "How the Wildlife • How the Wildlife tourism Wildlife tourism and eco - • No specific Was not
tourism is growing in is growing in India and to tourism and its data on helpful in
India and to what is what is the percentage of contribution to India. tourism my
scenario of research
the percentage of Indian visitors?
Assam
Indian visitors" ➢ Due to growth of
published on experiential travel in
https://www.thehansin India, due to
dia.com, May 2019. dissemination of
information about
wildlife via social
media, Wildlife
tourism is growing big
in India. It has been
estimated that around
at 20% growth for
domestic travellers
and around 30% for

37
outbound. There is
also a big growth in
number of overseas
visitors coming to
India specifically for
Wildlife.

38
 Chapter 3
Research Methodology
3.1 Research Design

A research design is the set of methods and procedures used in collecting and analyzing
measures of the variables specified in the problem research. There are four main types of
quantitative research designs: descriptive, correlational, quasi-experimental and experimental.

To cope with the objectives of the study, the evaluative and descriptive method has been adopted
for the study and a questionnaire has been prepared for collecting data from tourists who have
visited Kaziranga National Park.

3.2 Data type and source

The present study is based on secondary data collection. To study the status of tourism in Assam,
the secondary data are collected from India Tourism Statistics, Ministry of Tourism, Statistical
Handbook of Assam, Economic Survey of Assam etc. Moreover, various e-journals and books
have been used for required analysis.

Primary data about Accommodation facilities at Kaziranga National Park are also collected from
tourists in a 5 point Likert scale with Sample size=189

39
 Chapter 4

Preliminary Findings
4.1 The Present Status of Tourism Scenario in Assam

Assam is endowed with plentiful natural and cultural resources which can form the basis for a
very lucrative tourism industry, creating employment and generating income not only in the
urban centers but also in the rural areas. Assam can become one of the most attractive
destinations in the country because of its magnificent tourism products like exotic wildlife,
awesome scenic beauty, colorful fairs and festivals, age old historical monuments, lush green tea
gardens and golf courses, massive river Brahmaputra and its tributaries, serene and tranquil
country side and warm and hospitable people. The tourism potentiality of Assam is quite rich.
The state has suitable natural infrastructure for the promotion of tourism. Tourism in Assam is
based on wildlife, natural beauty, unique flora and fauna, holy shrines, lush green tea gardens,
turbulent rivers, vibrant and colorful cultural festivals. In Assam there are five national parks,
eighteen wildlife and two proposed wildlife sanctuaries. The Kaziranga National Park was
declared world heritage site by UNESCO in 1985. Other important destination of tourism are
Kamakhya temple, Majuli, the world’s largest river island in Brahmaputra, remnants of Ahom
rulers and their predecessors, tea garden with its bungalows, golf courses etc.

The whole tourist potentialities of the state can be grouped under the categories-

A. Wildlife and Nature Tourism,

B. Tea & Golf Tourism,
C. Eco Tourism,
D. Cultural Tourism,
E. Pilgrim Tourism,
F. Adventure Tourism,
G. Rural Tourism,
H. Medical Tourism.

Assam is famous for Wildlife and Cultural tourism. The regions, which have plenty of natural
beauty and resources like cultural heritage, archaeological relics, historical ruins, biodiversity
etc., have enough scope for the tourism promotion. In the following discussion, it is tried to
compare the status of tourism based on domestic and foreign tourist inflow in Assam with other
top five tourism developed states of India in 2016.

40
Table 4.1.1 Comparison with percentage shares between rank of top 5 states and Assam in
terms of domestic tourist visits, during 2016:

The following table shows comparison of percentage share of top Five States with the state
Assam in terms of domestic tourist visit in 2016.

State Domestic Tourists Percentage Share Rank

Tamil Nadu 343812413 21.31 1

Uttar Pradesh 211707090 13.12 2

Andhra Pradesh 153163354 9.49 3

Madhya Pradesh 150490339 9.33 4

Karnataka 129762600 8.04 5

Assam 5160599 0.32 23

Others 619455110 38.40

Source: India Tourism Statistics 2017

41
 Fig 4.1.1(a) Comparison with percentage shares between rank
of top 5 states and Assam in terms of domestic tourist visits,
during 2016

Tamil Nadu, 21.31% Tamil Nadu

Others, 38.40%
Uttar Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh
Uttar
Pradesh, Karnataka
13.12% Assam
Others
Assam, 0.32%

Karnataka, 8.04% Andhra Pradesh,

Madhya Pradesh, 9.49%
9.33%

Fig 4.1.1(a) Comparison with percentage shares between rank of top 5 states and Assam in
terms of domestic tourist visits, during 2016

Table 4.1.2 Comparison with percentage shares and rank of top 5 states with Assam in
terms of foreign tourist visits, during 2016:

The following shows comparison between percentage share of top Five States or Union Territory
and Assam in terms of foreign tourists visit in 2016.

States Foreign Tourists Percentage Share Rank

Tamil Nadu 4721978 19.11 1

Maharashtra 4670048 18.90 2

Uttar Pradesh 3156812 12.78 3

42
Delhi 2520083 10.2 4

West Bengal 1528700 6.19 5

Assam 12685 0.05

27

Others 8097426 32.78

Source: India Tourism Statistics 2017

Fig 4.1.2(a) Comparison with percentage shares and rank of

top 5 states with Assam in terms of foreign tourist visits, during
2016

Tamil Nadu, 19.11%

Others, 32.78% Tamil Nadu
Maharashtra
Maharashtra, 18.90% Uttar Pradesh
Delhi
West Bengal
Uttar Pradesh,
Delhi, 10.20% Assam
12.78%
Assam, 0.05% Others

West Bengal, 6.19%

Fig 4.1.2(a) Comparison with percentage shares and rank of top 5 states with Assam in
terms of foreign tourist visits, during 2016

43
4.2 Distribution of Classified Hotel & Hotel Rooms near to Tourist Destinations in India, as
on 31st December, 2016

The Ministry of Tourism has adopted a system of approving and classifying the hotels on the
basis of the facilities and services provided by them. The number of approved hotels is a
voluntary scheme of Ministry of Tourism.

Table 4.2.1: Comparison in terms of Distribution of Classified Hotel & Hotel Rooms in Top
Five Tourism developed States with Assam as on 31st December, 2016

State/ 5 Star 5 4 3 2 1 Apar Tim Herit B & B Guest Total

UTs Delux Star Star Star Star Star tmen e age Establi Hous
e t Shar Hotel sh e
e

Maharashtra

No. of 24 15 11 28 1 1 0 0 0 9 3 92
Hotels

No. of 7376 228 118 1772 49 54 0 0 0 30 39 12784

Rooms 1 3

Kerala

No. of 13 25 150 192 23 0 0 0 11 4 0 418

Hotels

No. of 1797 206 384 3667 215 0 0 0 139 15 0 11736

Rooms 3 0

Delhi

44
No. of 18 5 7 3 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 34
Hotels

No. of 5489 664 642 101 14 0 0 0 0 0 0 6910

Rooms

Tamil Nadu

No. of 4 12 4 33 5 11 0 0 2 4 0 75
Hotels

No. of 965 160 518 2304 139 344 0 0 55 12 0 5944

Rooms 7

Telangana

No. of 6 6 4 15 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 33
Hotels

No. of 1732 108 586 1274 0 0 0 0 0 6 0 4681

Rooms 3

Assam

45
No. of 0 0 2 8 12 0 0 0 0 2 0 34
Hotels

No. of 0 0 216 695 313 0 0 0 0 4 0 1228

Rooms

Others

No. of 81 73 32 139 11 0 0 0 27 295 115 773

Hotels

No. of 1367 851 290 7791 460 0 0 0 1064 1529 651 36596
Rooms 8 6 7

Source: India Tourism Statistics 2017

Table 4.2.1 provides the Number of classified hotels and hotel rooms by categories in different
states/ UTs of the country. It may be seen from this table that Maharashtra has the maximum
12784 No. of hotel rooms followed by Kerala (11736), Delhi (6910), Tamil Nadu (5944),
Telangana (4681) and only 1228 hotels room in Assam among 36 states of India. Table 4.2.1
also shows that as compared to top five tourism developed states; there no any number of 5 star
deluxe or 5 star hotels in Assam. Moreover, Assam do not possesses sufficient number of 4 star,
3 star and 2 star hotels as well as rooms. This may cause adverse effects of foreign and domestic
tourist inflow as well.

46
 40000
36596
35000

30000

25000

20000
No. of Hotels
15000 12784 11736
No. of Rooms
10000 6910 5944
4681
5000
418 1228 773
92 34 75 33 34
0

Fig 4.2.1 (a): Comparison with percentage share of top Five States/UTs with Assam in
terms of distribution of classified hotels and rooms in 2016.

4.3 Tourist Inflow to the National Parks of Assam

In Assam, tourism industry is an important source of revenue generation. Tourism industry plays
a significant role in case of earning foreign exchange reserves. The Kaziranga National Park has
generated 493.15 lakh in 2016-17 while Manas, Orang, Diru-Saikhowa and Nameri National
Park earned 76.24 lakh, 4.02 lakh, 0.26 lakh and 18.58 lakh respectively. The numbers of foreign
tourists has increased in Kaziranga and Manas during 2015-16, in comparison to 2014-15,
remained the same in Dibru-Saikhowa National Park and decreased in Orang and Nameri
National Parks. During the period 2016-17, there was an increase in both Indian and Foreign
tourists in Dibru-Saikhowa and Nameri National Parks with an increase of only foreign tourists
in Orang National Parks. However, there was a decline both in Indian and foreign tourists in
Kaziranga and Manas National Parks as well. The numbers of tourists Arrivals in national parks
along with Revenue Collection during the last few years is presented below in table 5. The table
also indicates that there is some sort of fluctuation, both in the inflow of tourist and the revenue
collection from these parks during this period and the arrival of foreign tourist excluding
Kaziranga National Park is not satisfactory.

47
Table 4.3.1: Revenue Collection on arrival of Tourists in National Parks of Assam:

Name of National Year No of visitors Revenue ( In Lakh )

Park

Indian Foreign

2010-11 112392 7447 136.73

2011-12 117308 7521 149.46
Kaziranga National 2012-13 93747 7418 205.76
Park 2013-14 119289 6922 268.66
2014-15 123360 7994 290.46
2015-16 162799 11417 419.77
2016-17 159669 7383 493.15
2010-11 10843 503 14.67
2011-12 19705 237 24.17
2012-13 15892 218 25.48
Manas National Park 2013-14 20527 211 30.93
2014-15 9786 475 33.48
2015-16 40559 614 73.69
2016-17 36201 351 76.24
2010-11 1702 180 1.82
2011-12 2678 159 2.45
2012-13 1847 70 2.76
Orang National Park 2013-14 2329 16 2.43
2014-15 1946 45 2.31
2015-16 3502 20 4.04
2016-17 3354 62 4.02
2010-11 2351 40 0.56
2011-12 3970 42 0.90
2012-13 2656 19 1.08
Dibru-Saikhowa 2013-14 4230 54 2.09
National Park 2014-15 4249 27 2.1
2015-16 2695 27 0.16
2016-17 2968 58 0.26
2010-11 4460 352 2.72
2011-12 5601 457 3.51
2012-13 4370 528 4.54
Nameri National Park 2013-14 5866 806 11.26
2014-15 8448 1035 14.13
2015-16 10384 702 9.25

48
 2016-17 11539 874 18.58
Source: Directorate of Tourism, Government of Assam

We can infer from the Table 4.3.1 that number of tourists is increasing although at certain period
it is less than the number of tourists in the previous year. This increasing number of tourists over
the years is due to many reasons such as advertisement, promotion, and development of
infrastructures, government schemes and policies to develop the tourism industry, etc.

500

400

300

200 2010-11
2011-12
100
2012-13
0 2013-14
2014-15
2015-16
2016-17

Fig 4.3.1 (a): Revenue Collections from National Parks of Assam during the last seven
years. (Rupees in Lakh)

From the above figure, we see that Kaziranga National Park (KNP) contributes highest to the
total revenue generated from all the National Parks in any year.

49
Table 4.3.2: Indian and Foreign tourists to Assam and revenue earned from the tourists

Year Tourists staying in Tourist Staying in Total Revenue % change in

Tourists Lodges other earned from revenue
accommodation like Tourist lodges
Hotels only (Rupees
Indian Foreign Indian Foreign in Lakh)

2006-07 20279 649 3459591 13008 81.30

2007-08 24057 960 3465757 12839 94.99 +16.84

2008-09 26439 8674 3672267 13859 103.92 +9.40

2009-10 25665 669 3869860 14030 131.63 +26.66

2010-11 25831 594 4101616 15039 143.60 +9.09

2011-12 26439 696 4381897 15964 184.49 +28.47

2012-13 22057 711 4522609 16997 248.19 +34.53

2013-14 26394 726 4417999 18360 191.32 -22.91

2014-15 21092 422 4842734 19583 211.77 +10.69

50
2015-16 42988 1077 5599962 25243 1057.24 +399.24

2016-17 24036 474 5389841 6735 252.39 -76.13

Sources: Economic Survey Assam 2017-18

Year Wise Total Revenue Earned from Tourist

Lodges in Assam
1200

1057.24
1000

800

600
Year Wise Total Revenue
400 Earned from Tourist
Lodges in Assam
284.19
252.39
200 184.49 191.32211.77
131.63143.6
81.3 94.99 103.92
0

Fig 4.3.2 (a): Year Wise Total Revenue Earned from Tourist Lodges in Assam

The above graph shows almost an increasing trend of revenue earning from tourist lodges in
Assam during the period 2006-07 to 2016-17. In the year 2015-16, highest revenue collected
from tourist lodge which was Rupees 1057.24 lakh.

51
 Accomodation facilities at KNP are good as
expected
120
120

100

80

60 No of tourists
38
40
22
20 8
1
0
Strongly Agree(4) No Disagree(2) Strongly
agree(5) opinion(3) Disagree(1)

Fig: Accommodation facilities at KNP reviewed by Tourists (Column chart )

Source: Primary Data

22

8
Strongly agree(5)
Agree(4)
No opinion(3)
38
Disagree(2)
120 Strongly Disagree(1)

Fig: Accommodation facilities at KNP reviewed by Tourists (Pie chart)

Source: Primary Data

52
4.4 Potentialities of ecotourism in Assam:
Assam, the most prominent state of North East India is said to be the hotspot for tourists for its
natural beauty and favorable climate. This state is surrounded by Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur,
Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura. Assam also shares its border with Bhutan and
Bangladesh. The state is spread across an area of 78,438 sq km which represents 2.39 % of the
Indian landmass. (Economic Survey, Assam, 2010-11) The whole state is divided into two
distinct natural regions, viz, the plain and the hills. The plain region comprises of the
Brahmaputra and Barak valley. The hill region consists of two hills namely the Karbi Anglong
and the North Cachar hills. The state is the gateway to the north eastern region and is allied to
India by a narrow strip in West Bengal called the Siliguri corridor or the Chicken Neck of India.
Thus, Assam is in isolation from the rest of the country; yet she is famous for her unique
physiological beauty with flora and fauna, historical monuments, pilgrim centres, tea gardens
and her colorful cultural festivals which are considered as her tourism resources. Assam is rich in
natural resources. About 35% of the state is covered with forests. There are five national parks,
seventeen wildlife and bird sanctuaries and 2 biosphere reserves.

4.5 Places Where Eco Tourism Industry can be further developed

Table 4.5.1 Places Where Eco Tourism Industry can be further developed

Name District Specialty

Bhalukpung Sonitpur Evergreen forests,mystic blue

hills and bank of river Jia bhoroli
Chandubi Nagaon Chandubi lake, tea garden, deep
forests
Haflong NC Hills Haflong lake, hill station,

Jatinga NC Hills Famous bird mystery

Majuli Jorhat Rare migratory birds like pelican,

water sports
Digboi Tinisukia Garden city

Sasoni Merbill Dibrugarh Biggest lake in Assam

Koyakujia Bongaigaon Koyakujia lake, Boating

Diphu Karbi anglong Botanical garden, boating

facilities

53
Umrangshu NC Hills Hills and greenery

Joypur Dibrugarh Rain forest

Gerukamukh Dhemaji Hills and scenic beauty of

subansiri
Pancharatna Goalpara Reserve forest

Maibong NC Hills Hill station

Panimoor NC Hills Thrilling waterfall of Kapili River

Source: Secondary data from www.ijirset.com

4.6 Problems of Tourism as well as Ecotourism

As seen in the previous pages, tourism and ecotourism do not seem to be attaining a noteworthy
height despite the various measures taken by the Government for their development. What pulls
back the promising government schemes are as follows:

• Insufficient transport and communication facilities

• Unavailability of average standard accommodation

• Inadequate public services like PCOs, ATM systems etc

• Frequent power cut-offs

• Communication gaps between tourists and people

• Flash floods, heavy rainfall, waterlogged roads etc

• Insurgency problems of the state

• Poverty and poor living standards of the people

• Inefficient and negative roles of the media.

4.7 Suggestions to Improve the Tourism Scenario in Assam:

1. Infrastructure: The entire infrastructure connected with tourism such as good road
communication, good hotels and safari resorts, water spots, tents and other logistics for
eco-tourism should be developed. The inaccessibility of some of the erstwhile popular
tourist destinations in Assam is one of the limitations of tourism development. It is

54
 essential to link existing and prospective tourist destinations with road communication
system.

2. Coordination with various bodies and agencies: Department of Tourism alone cannot
promote tourism activities in the state as tourist resources of the state are under various
departments, viz. archaeology, Assam Tourism Development Corporation, tea garden,
civil aviation, forest, culture, sports, etc. Hence, interdepartmental cooperation is
necessary for tourism development in the state.

3. State policy for Tourism: A proper tourism development policy of tourism for the state
of Assam has to be evolved on the line of National Policy of Tourism. However, the state
government of Assam has launched a new Tourism policy- 'Tourism Policy of Assam
2017' with the aim of increase tourist inflow in the state by two to three folds within the
next five years. Proper implementation of this policy is an urgent requirement for the
promotion of tourism in Assam and will encourage the private sector to pro-actively
participate and invest in tourist places. Both the government and private agencies should
give a serious thought in this matter. The state government and private agencies should
join hands in the process of tourism planning and policy implementation for the state.

4. Publicity Drive: In spite of having tremendous tourism potential, Assam has not yet
aggressively marketed itself. Both the national and global level efforts should be made to
increase the demand for tourism in Assam. Information about tourism in Assam should
be made available in the embassies in New Delhi and diplomatic offices in Major Indian
cities. Intensive campaign should be carried out by government and private agencies
through print and electronic media at both national and international levels to project the
positive image of the state. However, a brand image of Assam as “Awesome Assam”
already created to portray the states uniqueness and exotic beauty with a renowned
celebrity as brand Ambassador.

5. Facilities for the tourists: Tourism is known as a ‘hospitality service’ and it should
ensure all possible facilities to the tourists, who are to be treated as honored guests. There
is lack in basic amenities in the destinations. These need improvement. Planned,
sustained and well-thought long-term efforts are to be made to improve the socio-
economic and political set up of the state. More hotels, and resorts and guest houses
should be set up nearby the tourist spots.

6. Tourism package for the North East: Tourism in Assam cannot be viewed in isolation.
Many tourists visiting Assam would like to visit Shillong, Cherapunji, Tawang, Bomdila,
Tezpur etc. There should be an integrated approach to promote tourism in the NR Region
with an attractive package of nature, eco, tea, adventure tourism. All the north-eastern
states should join hands for an integrated tourism development in the region. The North-
Eastern Council should come up to play an integrated role in this regard.

55
7. Role of the Government: A strong political will is of excessive in need for the
restoration of peace and political stability in the area with a whole-hearted efforts
including political dialogue with the various insurgent groups working in Assam should
be made to redress their grievances within the framework of Indian constitution in a
democratic manner.

8. Civic Consciousness: Above all, people’s consciousness to development their own area
through the improvement of tourism industry is a need of the hour.

56
 Chapter 5

Statement of Limitations
Following are the limitations and weakness of my project:

1. The project is based on secondary data sources from various e-journals, government
websites, magazines etc; and so it might not be accurate.
2. The data and information are not so recent.
3. The data collection procedure is not known to me and how well it was carried out.
4. Lack of relevant information is common in secondary data sources.

To get more accurate data, one has to visit the various tourist destinations and collect primary
data from the tourists, hotel managers, and local entrepreneurs with the help of questionnaires.

This project which will serve as a secondary data source can be useful for further study and
research purpose.

57
 Chapter 6

Findings and Conclusion

Tourism is a sector which cannot grow and sustain by the efforts of the government alone. It
requires private initiatives for promotion. In fact, tourism is a multi-dimensional activity and has
strong inter-related linkages and so, proper care to develop all the links and sectors involved in
this business is of prime consideration. From the above discussion we come to know that there is
a huge potentiality of Eco tourism in Assam. But despite of this the development of Eco tourism
industry is not very satisfactory. Most of the people of Assam are not aware about the concept of
Eco tourism and its importance to the environment as well as to the economy. Therefore instead
of conservation of natural resources they destroy it to live a comfortable life. It may be
concluded from the above discussions that the status of Assam in tourism sector is not
satisfactory as compared to other top five tourism-developed states of India. In this study, we
have found that we do not have adequate accommodation facilities as compared to other states of
India, very few numbers of tourist service agencies and insufficient number of classified hotels
as well as hotel rooms. This may cause have adverse effects of foreign and domestic tourist
inflow as well. It is also evident that the tourists are only aware of Kaziranga National Park
(KNP) and as a result the other National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries are not visited often as a
result of which the remaining National Parks are not contributing significantly to the revenue of
the State.
Moreover there are many problems associated with the improvement of the tourism industry.
Some of these are:
• Insufficient transport and communication facilities: Assam is hilly areas surrounded
by dense forest and lots of mountains. Therefore the communication system is not very
satisfactory to attract the foreign tourists.
• Growth of insurgent activities: The growth of insurgent activities is another reason for
the development of tourism industry in Assam. There are many insurgency groups in
Assam as well as in the North Eastern part of India. The growing activities of insurgency
groups demotivate the tourist. The growth of insurgency group is mainly due to weak low
and order situation of this region.
• Lack of proper tourism policy: In 2008 Government of Assam introduced a tourism
policy but it is not properly implemented yet due to lack awareness and sincerity of
Government Officials.
• Unavailability of standard accommodation facilities: The accommodation facilities in
tourism potential areas in Assam are very low standard. The accommodation facilities are
available only in the National parks, but there is a lack of standard transportation
facilities in the other tourism potential areas of Assam.
• Lack of tour guides: Assam virtually does not have adequate trained guides in important
places of tourist attraction. Consequently, as the tourists arrive at such a place there is
hardly anyone to satisfy the inquisitiveness of the tourists.
• Poor maintenance of the tourist places: Except a few, the government tourist lodges
designated to accommodate tourists, are not well managed.
• Natural Calamities: Flash floods, heavy rainfall, waterlogged roads, soil erosion etc.
which stands as the stumbling-block to the development of tourism in Assam.

58
• Frequent Bandh: Moreover, in many times frequent bandhs are call upon by different
organizations in the state which severely affects the movements of the tourists inside the
state as well as stop their entrance into the state.
• Minimum investment by the government in tourism sector and inadequate campaign
about tourism in Assam both at the national and global level.

59
 Annexure 7

Questionnaire for Tourists who visited Kaziranga National Park

TOURISTIC YOUR
PLACE: RESIDENCE:
NAME: DATE:
AGE: GENDER:
ANNUAL PROFESSION:
INCOME:

A Research is being carried out by me “PROSPECT OF WILDLIFE TOURISM IN ASSAM-A

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS WITH OTHER TOP 5 TOURISM DEVELOPED STATES IN
INDIA” of which this is the questionnaire part. I therefore request you to spare a few minutes of
your precious time to complete the questionnaire and take this opportunity to thank you for
dedicating your time. By filling in this questionnaire, you will contribute to improving the
quality and development of tourism in Kaziranga National Park, Assam which is one of the most
desirable tourist destinations.

1. What type of tourist are you?

Domestic Outstation

2. Where did you stay during your visit?

Hotel Resort Friend’s Home Relative

3. Did you find Hotels and other staying places value for money?

Yes No

4. How did you reach the destination?

By car By Bus By train By aero plane

Combination of the above__________________________________

5. Where did you first hear about Kaziranga National Park?

I already knew about it

The Internet
Friends and Reletives
Television
Books and guide
60
 Fairs and/or Exhibitions
If other, please specify_______________________________

6. Is this your first visit to KNP?

No
Yes
If No, How many times have you visited this touristic destination in the past?

7. Would you like to visit KNP again?

Yes
No

8. If you would not like to visit KNP again, then, what factors are responsible for it?

Inadequate Transport facilities

Frequent Insurgencies
Poor service
Poor accommodation problem
Lack of good sights
Any other, please specify_______________________________________

9. What is your overall satisfaction with your visit to this tourist destination?
Completely satisfied
Somewhat satisfied
Satisfied
Dissatisfied
Completely dissatisfied

Below are listed some statements which refer to the general image of this tourist destination. For
each statement please indicate to what extent you agree with it.

Where: 1= Strongly disagree 2= Disagree 3=No opinion 4= Agree

5= Strongly Agree

TOPIC 1 2 3 4 5
1. I think most people have a positive opinion about KNP

2. This tourist destination has a unique image.

3. KNP is well known in other states outside Assam.

4. KNP can be considered as an ecotourism destination

5. I didn’t find any difficulty in reaching KNP.

61
6. The staff at KNP is friendly towards the guests.

7. The prices of additional offer at KNP (i.e. prices of food and drink, prices of
souvenirs, prices of handcrafted products, prices of excursions, prices of
beauty and relaxing programs) are favorable.

8. KNP is known for Insurgency Problem

9. KNP is not promoted properly

10. Local people are not tourist friendly

11. Poor Law and order situation in the State

12. Lack of security at KNP

13. There is not much wildlife at KNP

14. The Elephant Safari and the Jeep Safari charge too much money

15. Accessibility and transportation to KNP is not good.

16. KNP is not properly developed

17. Accommodation facilities at KNP

Are good as expected

18. No tourist guide at KNP

19. The Hotel, Resorts, Guest house at KNP are not good as expected

20. Lack of good eating outlet near KNP

62
 References
1. Bhagawati, A.K., Bora, A.K., Kar, B.K. (Ed.) -Geography of Assam (2011), Rajesh
Publication, New Delhi
2. Megu, K. –Development Issues in North-East Region (2007) - Mittal Publications, New
Delhi
3. Devi, M.K.- Ecotourism in Assam: A Promising Opportunity for Development, SAJTH,
January 2012
4. Das, A.-Potentialities of Tourism Industry in Dhemaji District of Assam, GRT, Volume
2, May 2013
5. Chutia, H. R., Saikia, S. (Ed) –Tourism in North East India(2011), Purbanchal Prakash,
Guwahati
6. Bhattachaya, P. -Tourism in Assam-Trend and Potentialities (2011)-Bani Mandir,
Guwahati
7. Chutia, S. –Prospects and Problems of Tourism Industry in Assam, IJIRSET, Vol.4,
February 2015
8. Statistical Hand Book Assam 2016 & Economic Survey Assam 2017-18
9. Tourism Statistics India 2016
10. Tourism Policy of Assam, 2017
11. Economic Survey, Assam, Directorate of Economics and Statistics, Government of
Assam
12. Binu R and Dr. K. Sasikumar; ‘Ecotourism and Rural Development’ ; Kurukshetra; Vol.
52, No. 8, June 2004.
13. Dr. V. Sharma and Dr. N. Anand, ‘Rural Tourism’; Kurukshetra; Vol. 52, No. 8, June
2004.
14. Ecotourism and Dibru-Saikhowa National Park by Ms. Geetirekha Dutta Mahanta

63
64