Role of Tourism Sector in Expanding Economic Opportunities in Gujarat Dr. Panchal Nilam*, Dr. Singh W. C.** *Assistant Professor, Narmada College of Management, Gujarat Technological University, Bharuch, Gujarat, India **Associate Professor, Manipur Institute of Management Studies, Manipur University, Canchipur, Imphal, India Online published on 13 March, 2014. Abstract Economic opportunity enables people to manage their assets in ways that generate incomes and options. Among the three major sectors of economy - primary, secondary and tertiary or service sector, India's service sector growth has been phenomenal with the sector contributing high in GDP. Tourism that forms a part of the service sector industry, is a major phenomenon of modern society, and has emerged as an economic activity of immense global importance. Tourism is one of the world's largest and fastest growing industries. Gujarat is one of the most diverse states in India. It is considered as a hub for commercial and industrial activity and has immense potential for tourism development with vast cultural and religious heritage. Gujarat has grown as one of the preferred destination for tourist. It has excellent infrastructure and security which are the foremost requirements for tourism to develop. The state also has extensive road and rail network. Several initiatives have been undertaken by Gujarat government to boost tourism. The paper analyzes development of various segments like religious tourism, business and medical tourism, eco and nature tourism, heritage and cultural tourism in Gujarat. It analyses how these segments of tourism sector have expanded economic opportunities in Gujarat and the direct and indirect economic effects for creation of opportunities and development of the state. Top Keywords Economic effects, Economic opportunities, segments of tourism. Top |