Tourism industry in India is quite small compared to many other countries in terms of India’s potential and size. Which one of the following statements is correct in this regard ?

The primary reason cited for India’s tourism being small relative to its potential is inadequate supporting infrastructure. Official texts list lack of adequate infrastructure — specifically transport, banking and hotels — as a major problem constraining the tourist industry, along with related issues of safety, guides and regional disturbances [1]. This infrastructural deficit helps explain why India’s international share remains low despite large potential: inbound tourism was only about 5.6 million (0.50% of world tourists), indicating underperformance relative to resources and attractions [2]. Thus, among the given choices, the generalized inadequacy of infrastructure (option 4) best explains the sector’s limited size vis-à-vis India’s potential.

Sources

1. [1] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 11: Industries > Problems of Indian Tourism Industry > p. 96
2. [2] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 11: Industries > TOURISM > p. 91