A STUDY OF TRENDS OF GREEN TOURISM IN INDIA (WITH REFERENCES TO NORTH-EAST REGION)
JV’n Ranu Waikhom
Research Scholar, Jayoti Vidyapeeth Women‘s University, Jaipur (Rajasthan), India JV’n Mini Amit Arrawatia, Supervised
Professor, Jayoti Vidyapeeth Women‘s University, Jaipur (Rajasthan), India Dr. K Devi, Co- Supervised
Department of Commerce, DEV Autonomous College, Titilagarh, Odisha
Abstract- The study shows the examples of green tourism in the north-eastern part of India. The survey expects to analyze all of the five objections of this assessment work.
North-East India's eight states, explicitly Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, and Sikkim, are rich with vegetation and mountains. All of the 8 states are exceptional in culture, food, tribal lifestyle, biodiversity, etc, and have been dark to the world when stood out from various territories of India. The outline relies upon green tourism to propel North East India in the tourism business. Over the latest 10 years, tourism has been growing at an impressively speedier rate as well. There will be an impact in the tourism region in the future. Green tourism includes eco-tourism, sustainable tourism, responsible tourism. The things and organizations drew in with green tourism are travelers, travel, areas, convenience organizations, etc Green tourism bases on decreasing carbon dioxide, energy-saving, clean water, and clean air.
It begins with an establishment of assessment study, with an investigation issue and the objections of the assessment and its significance. The ensuing part incorporates literature, the third involves the way of thinking picked, and the fourth is the examination part, continuing with discussion and results, and eventually, the end and proposition.
Keywords: Green, Tourism, Sustainable, Development.
1. INTRODUCTION
India has been the most diverse nation and the tourism sector is one of the most crucial industries to increase the economic state of the nation. Green or eco-tourism within the nation is the most thriving sector which has allowed the Indian tourism department to manage and save its magnificent natural beauty (Choden and Alam, 2019). Several zoological parks, biological parks, wildlife sanctuaries, lush green jungles, mighty mountains, and tea plantations are there in India. Besides, the nation has been popular for its tribal population and exclusive nature. This indicates that the tourism sector particularly green-tourism activities can flourish and prosper extensively in the nation. Moreover, the study has focused on the green-tourism trends practiced particularly in north- eastern India. It has attempted to highlight all the aspects of this tourism trend. It has also considered the criteria based on which the trend can be approved. A thorough review of the topic has helped to explore the matter of research. Tourism, based on the green or eco concept is regarded as the modern technique of travel. Multiple tourist
destinations in the north-eastern region can let the tourist feel an exotic and natural experience (Giri et al, 2020).
Moreover, the study has also highlighted the contribution of the tourism-based organizations and tourism ministry departments particularly in the northeast of India. Community and economic development are possible with the approval of green-tourism (Paul et al, 2019). The north-east region of the nation is the wealth of India's natural beauty and rich in traditional cultures. It is also the home to a wide range of biodiversity.
Tourism operations in the pace are a symbiosis between the locals and nature which eventually supports the creation of a beautiful mutual association between man and nature (Mohapatra et al, 2019).
Green-tourism stands to hold the balance between within nature and also attempts to maintain the sustainability of the environment. The study tends to highlight the effective approach and key aspects of green-tourism. This study can be properly presented since it is based on the green tourism trend in north-east India where the place itself provides an abode to multiple ecotourism destinations. The
potential of the region to explore this mode of tourism has to be addressed and strategically planned. Sustainable tourism is also implied with the trend of eco and green-tourism. A better approach towards this can help make the region as well as the nation to be at the topmost ranking in the travel and tourism sector. The Indian government is attempting to take a strategic approach towards building the infrastructure of sustainable tourism (Mohapatra et al, 2019). They are concerned about preserving the natural characteristics of the surroundings.
Abidance of the natural aspects in tourism operations can allow the ushering of thousands of tourists from all around the globe. Apart from getting familiar with nature, green-tourism also encourages the criteria of conservation-based initiatives (Mohapatra et al, 2019). This study also comprises the possible challenges that the operational development of the tourism sector has experienced over time.
1.1 Aspects of Green Tourism
The practice of green tourism not only helps in restoring the good quality of the environment but this trend has also allowed us to discover the natural beauty of the suburban regions of India. Besides, its crucial aspects, benefits, and significance have let eco or green-tourism be prominent all across the world (Nongkynrih, 2019). This trend in the tourism sector has been the key to protecting pristine and fragile ecosystems.
It also attempts to bring advantages to the rural communities by letting them stay in the highlight. The main objective of adopting this particular niche of tourism activities is to bring the poorly developed region to light through a sustainable approach (Nongkynrih, 2019).
Maintaining social conscience and instilling the value of environmental welfare is possible through the practice of responsibility or green-tourism. Unlike usual tourism or mass tourism, the key aspects of ecotourism are to minimize the negative impact on the environment and surroundings (Nongkynrih, 2019).
1.2 Approach to Green-tourism
As per the UNWTO (UN World Tourism Organizations), tourism is the fastest- growing sector in terms of contributing to
stability and employment in every region of the globe. Similar criteria apply to green-tourism which attempts to generate employment, revenue well as support in the conservation of the natural environment and biodiversity (Tourism, 2017). In these contemporary days, the approach to sustainable or green-tourism has changed to a large extent which eventually allowed stability. Inclusive and sustainable growth of the sector is possible by taking a proper and strategic approach towards green tourism. The key approach to sustainable green tourism has to take factors like security, peace, and mutual understanding under consideration (Tourism, 2017).
1.3 Sustainable Community Development through Green-Tourism Green-tourism practices are one of the key criteria for sustainable community development facilitating the preservation of natural resources (Tourism, 2017).
Besides, green-tourism is also regarded to be community-based tourism since the related practices create a significant positive influence and positive transition for the progression of local communities, tourism, in the broader sense, is the key to open up the maximum potentialities of the community by creating thousands of job opportunities for the local people (Prabha and Jain, 2019). Green-tourism can promote sustainable development by making sure that recyclable components are used in the course of business operations.
1.4 Sustainable Economic Development Via Green-Tourism
Sustainable economic development comprises proper planning that promotes economic growth keeping in view the quality of the environment for the future generation (Waikhom, 2019). It is analyzed that the results of tourism activities on environmental assets and economic growth mainly focus on the small island places. The choice of the visit of places among the tourists primarily depends upon the extent to which it offers scenic beauty and holds attractions that outline the heritage and culture of the place.
2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY 2.1 Introduction
This chapter contains the techniques and models of equipment used to access the latest analysis studied. For this purpose, the analysis examines the existence of options effectively first, and then considers how to perform the sample. In addition, the study examined why the approach used in this part. Researchers, including explanation of the techniques of data processing, a data review plan, and sampling strategies, etc, addressed studies such as the study philosophy, the research technique, research purposes, research policy, etc.
2.2 Research Process
The easiest way to explain the analysis method is through the onion testing paradigm. This model analysis is one way to gather and analyse information in depth in order to expand the knowledge of the subject or the challenge. Three main moves are taken in the onion study model:
• Ask your question.
• Data collection and question response.
• Give a follow-up query reply.
Thus the researchers construct the onion model suggested in 2009 by John W. Creswell for understanding this kind of study mechanism in order for the researchers to clarify it properly.
Figure 2.1 Model onion John W.
Creswell 2.3 Research Design
According to the Creswell Theory research design of 2007, three main techniques that involved exploratory, analytical and explanatory techniques can be classified.
When you speak of exploratory testing, that is when the challenges occur in the initial phase. This method of
analysis is used when the issue or the subject newly arrived and when it is challenging to gather data. Exploratory science is diverse and may discuss research issues of many sorts, like what, when, how and so on. In general, this kind of study is used to produce structured assumptions. For all these reasons, the exploratory research is wide in focus and it hardly offers any definite answers to the research problems.
It may either be qualitative or quantitative as we speak about descriptive analysis. This study style can consist of quantitative and continuous knowledge and a numerical form, including test scores or the amount of times a person selects to use a certain type of multimedia programme function.
In a closed-group setting, you may even explain the classifications of knowledge of gender patterns or light patterns of contact. This method of study often includes the collection of data which defines activities, organises, illustrates, tabulates and explains the collection of data. The explanatory studies look for historical and context explanations of interactions. The comprehension of the connection between variables becomes simple with the aid of hypothesis testing.
The degree of complexity in one specific research issue estimates the research technique according to Zikmund in 1984.
3. DATA ANALYSIS 3.1 Introduction
In the 21st century, green tourism has become the buzz in the tourism sector (lier, 2021). However, these are not only the words but a responsibility towards an eco-friendly lifestyle, particularly when the pandemic COVID-19 has harmfully hit the world. The author further added that adopting a green environment is a trend towards adjusting sustainable actions to live in harmony and habits.
Here habit stands to help us in protecting the eco-friendly environment and certifying environmental stability and growth. In this chapter, an effort has been made to calculate & demonstrate analytical findings in a tabular and graphical form. Column, bar and pie charts have been adopted to present data in a graphic format, whereas analytical data is represented in a tabular form.
SPSS version 25 software is used to
perform statistics on the gathered data. In regards to find the significance level of the trend of green tourism in the north-east region India a data of 420 travellers have been collected. Missing data treatment is performed to fill the empty cells in the data. Statistical methods like rank test, frequency distribution, one- sample t-test, and chi-square test have been used to find the significance level of the collected data.
3.2 Reliability
Internal consistency is measured via reliability. It's an extent through which variable viscosity could be measured.
Here data is reliable when the result is steady and could be repeated several times to get the same result (Malhotra, 2010). Reliability majorly concentrates on the research repeatability. The accepted tool to calculate reliability is Cronbach's Coefficient Alpha (Cronbach, 1951), and the alpha coefficient value should be more than or equal to 0.70(Nunnally, 1978).
The below table represents the reliability statistics of the 18 statements, and the value is close to 0.782. Here, the cronbach alpha value is greater than the recommended value of 0.70, and hence, it could be inferred that data is reliable for further study at a statement and overall level.
Table 1: Reliability Statistics
The mean and standard deviation of eighteen statements is close to 3.44 and 1.22. Thus, not much deviation from the mean has been observed from the collected data. Furthermore, a moderate correlation of (0.306) has been observed from these 18 statements with the average Cronbach value of 0.782. Item statistics also talks about the top 4 interest areas of green tourism as per the travellers, and they are as follows tourism increase in the availability of recreational facilities for the inhabitants (3.81), tourism influences the regional culture (traditions and customs, etc.) (3.78), tourism results in the development of the local area (3.78), localities open to tourism development (3.71), and keep updated about green tourism (3.73).
Table 2: Item Statistics
ANOVA with Cochran's Test talks about the significance level of the parametric data. For example, the illustrated table below represents the significance level of 0.00, lesser than the tolerance limit of 0.05. Hence it could be said that the collected data for analysis is significant for further study.
Table 3: ANOVA with Cochran's Test
3.3 Demographic Profiling of a Respondents
Population characteristic such as gender, age, occupation, education etc. is known
as demographic. Therefore, all statements used in the survey to learn more about the respondent and their knowledge regarding the subject is the part of demographic profiling. Here in the study, on assessing the trends of green tourism in the north-east region, India, statements like the number of days stay, amount-invest in travel and accommodation, knowledge about green tourism, intention to contribute in environment preservation, types of green tourism, conditions to prevent green tourism, influences to promote green tourism etc. have been asked and presented below in a graphical form.
Table 4: Would like to go to Green Destination
Further to understand the demographic profile of a traveller in detail few characteristics have been demonstrated below. The frequency distribution method has been used to present non-parametric data.
3.3.1 Gender
In the gathered data, there are 63.6%
male and 36.4% female. Out of 63.6%
male, 62.9% male wants to go for green destination whereas in the female the percentage is 35.7%. Overall, only 0.7% of both males and females have shown no interest in the green destination.
3.3.2 Education
Education enables upward towards socio- economic mobility. Here as per the data, all the travellers are educated, and the break-up is as follows high school (4.3%), intermediate (13.85), graduate (40.5%), post-graduate (35.7%) and doctorate (5.7%). This infers that most of the travellers are either graduate (40.5%) or post-graduate (35.7%). On the other hand, very few travellers are high school pass (4.3%).
3.3.3 Occupation
Regarding occupation, most travellers who would like to go to green destination are from government jobs (43.6%) followed by private jobs (25%). There are students (18.6%) and entrepreneurs
(12.1%) also who would prefer to go for the green destination.
3.3.4 Age
As per the illustrated table below, most of the travellers' age is in between 18 -25 years (44.3%) followed by 26-20 years (33.8%) and greater than 30 years (!9%).
There are only 2.9% travellers with age less than 18 years.
3.3.5 Frequency of Leisure Trip
According to 71.2% of travellers, their leisure trip frequency is less than 5 times a year, followed by 20% travellers with 5- 10 times and 8.8% travellers with the frequency of more than 10 times.
3.3.6 Location
Regarding the travelling location in the northeast region, most of them prefer to go to Manipur (31.4%), followed by Assam (19.3%), Arunachal Pradesh (18.6%), Nagaland (12.1%) and Meghalaya (10.7%).
There are few other locations where these travellers are interested in visiting, and they are as follows Sikkim (3.6%), Mizoram (2.1%), Tripura (1.45) and other states of India (0.7%).
3.3.7 Days Stay in One State of North East India
Most of the travellers (32.4%) would like to spend 3 -5 days in one state followed by 1-2 days (31.2%) and more than 7
days (23.8%). Only 12.6% travellers would like to spend 6 to 7 days in one state.
3.3.8 Amount Invest for Travel and Accommodation
Regarding investment of the amount in travel and accommodation, as per the data, it is Rs. 6000/- to Rs. 15,000/- (51.4%) followed by <= Rs. 5000 (21.7%), Rs. 26000/- to Rs. 40,000/- (13.1%), Rs.
16000/- to Rs. 25,000/- (9.5%), Rs.
41000/- to Rs. 60,000/- (2.95) and Rs.
61000/- to Rs. 100,000/- (1.4%). As per the monthly income, travellers expenditure on travel and accommodation differs.
3.3.9 Knowledge about Green Tourism According to the travellers, 67.9% have knowledge about green tourism. Out of 285 travellers, 282 travellers (98.9%) wanted to go for green tourism. However, according to the writers (Maria Johansson, Silvia Wurzinger, 2006), knowledge about green tourism is limited, and it is primarily associated with ecologically sound tourism.
3.3.10 Intention to Contribute to the Environment Preservation
Nowadays, green tourism has got a lot of attention due to the rich blending of cultural and natural resources. However, it is also true that not all travellers do green tourism but have shown a positive attitude towards environmental behaviour (T. Handriana, R. Ambara, 2016). Data also reveals the positive attitude towards environment preservation (97.1%) of the travellers. On the other hand, 2.9% of travellers who doesn't have any intention towards environmental preservation.
3.3.11 Preserve Environment
Further methods of environment preservation had been discussed with the travellers and presented below. Most and the significant methods to preserve the environment as per the travellers are as follows tree plantation (25.6%), use of eco- friendly products (14.3%), wearing sustainable clothes (13.8%), avoid dumping garbage, especially plastics (13.3%), drive less to reduce pollution (7.2%), recycle and reuse (7.2%), stop deforestation (5.8%), educate people about environmental preservation (4.6%), ensure not to waste food (4.3%), dispose of waste properly (1.7%), use energy wisely (1.4%) and keep the surrounding clean (0.7%).
3.3.12 Green Tourism
Green Tourism has turned into the focal point of world intrigue and the specialization of many visit administrators; there are a ton of voyagers who search for convenience at eco- accommodating green lodgings as a pre-requisite. It is a mindful eco- accommodating kind of the travel industry pulling in knowledgeable and spotless, regular, condition sweethearts, dimensions of sightseers. Condition is the foundation of the travel industry action, and the clean condition is a certification furthermore, a vital factor of the travel industry attraction. The travel industry and condition are opposite sides of the same coin, giving careful consideration to natural security and creating natural assets.
3.3.13 Types of Green Tourism
According to the travellers, there are three types of green tourism such as eco- friendly tourism (64.5%), eco-friendly tourism (20.3%) and responsible tourism (15.2%). Green Tourism fulfils the pre- requisites of condition and assurance from contamination through projects in which stimulation and assurance supplement one another (T. Handriana, R.
Ambara, 2016).
3.3.14 Conditions to boost Green Tourism
Green tourism provides an alternate livelihood source to the local community.
Its aim to preserve resources like biological diversity. It also maintains the sustainable use of resources, such as bringing an eco-logical experience for travellers, conserving the eco- logical environment, and gaining economic benefit. However, achieving the aims in green tourism depends on whether they are environmentally and ecologically sustainable and economically applicable.
Green tourism helps involve the local community to conserve the ecosystem and biodiversity of the area (Kiper, 2012).
Here, there are few conditions discussed with the travellers to prevent green tourism, and they are as follows the tourist behaviour (28.7%), community support (25.4%), quality of attraction or destination (23.2%), security and safety (12.3%), government support (7.2%) and infrastructure (3.1%).
3.3.15 Reason for Green Tourism The fundamental objective behind green tourism to let a deep insight and generate concern, within the society, about the environment. This enhances admiration and promotes respect for nature. The notion of green tourism travelling encompasses programmes that diminish the negative or harmful facets of conventional tourism on the natural habitat and at the same time ameliorate the cultural unification of travellers with the local inhabitants. Here, in the study,
there are broadly three reasons such as welcoming nature (79.7%), sympathetic understanding (11.1%) and emotional closeness (9.2%) have been discussed with the travellers, which according to them are the main reason for green tourism.
3.3.16 Methods to Promote Green Tourism
There are various methods to promote green tourism; however, as per the travellers, the foremost method of promoting green tourism is through social media 69.3% followed by situational method 16.2% and through marketing 14.5%. According to the researcher (Chatterjee, 2020) perspective travellers, seek information only on social media platforms such as Google, Facebook, Youtube etc.
3.4 Truth and Golden Opportunities in Green Tourism
In the Indian economy, the tourism sector plays an essential role in the service sector. This is one of the fastest-growing sector in the world (Patel, 2020). This sector helps in accelerating countries economic development as well. Tourism has generated several economic and social benefits for the localities, such as the local economy-boosting (39.8%), quality local lifestyle (14.3%), job opportunities (13.6%), diversification (10.7%), promote community pride (10.2%), new business
development (6.2%) and income generation (5.2%).
Tourism sponsors international and national integration to create employment opportunities for localities and many other people worldwide. In addition, many small countries, particularly developing countries, are solely dependent upon tourism for a reliable source of income.
Further, an attempt has been made to assess the gender, education, occupation and age impact on the opportunities for the advancement of green tourism in the Northeast region.
Since the data is non-parametric, the cross-tabulation chi-square test has been adopted to evaluate the significance level at 95% confidence level. In addition, the frequency distribution is used to demonstrate the percentage count of each opportunity at the socio- demographic level.
3.4.1 Gender
In assessing the gender impact on the opportunities for the advancement of green tourism in the Northeast region the chi-square method is adopted and the value is 38.039a with the degree of freedom 6and significant value is0.00, less than 0.05. This means gender plays an essential role in the opportunities for the advancement of green tourism in the Northeast region. As per the data, the male impact on the prospects for the promotion of green tourismis 63.5%, and the female impact is 35.4%.
3.4.2 Education
In assessing the educational impact on the opportunities for the advancement of green tourism in the Northeast region, the chi-square method is adopted, and the value is 126.283a with the degree of freedom 24and significant value is0.00, less than 0.05. This means education plays an essential role in the opportunities for the advancement of green tourism in the Northeast region.
Furthermore, as per the data, travellers whose qualification in graduate and more (81.9%) are the ones who are getting benefits from the promotionor opportunities for the advancement of green tourism in northeast India.
3.4.3 Occupation
In assessing the occupation impact on the opportunities for the advancement of green tourism in the Northeast region, the chi-square method is adopted, and the value is 63.977a with the degree of freedom 18and significant value is0.00, less than 0.05. This means occupation plays an essential role in the opportunities for the advancement of green tourism in the Northeast region.
Furthermore, as per the data, government job travellers (43.5%) are the ones who are getting more benefits from the promotion or opportunities for the advancement of green tourism in northeast India followed by private jobs (25%). This could be because students and entrepreneurs don't get much time to spend on leisure holidays due to their work scheduled.
3.4.4 Age
In assessing the age impact on the opportunities for the advancement of green tourism in the Northeast region, the chi-square method is adopted, and the value is 35.130a with the degree of freedom 18and significant value is0.009, less than 0.05. This means age plays an essential role in the opportunities for the advancement of green tourism in the Northeast region. Furthermore, as per the data, travellers whose age is in between 18 -25 years (44.2%) are the ones who are getting more benefits from the promotion or opportunities for the advancement of green tourism in northeast India, followed by 26 -30 years (33.8%) and greater than
30 years (19%). As age grows, this could be because it provokes a robust environmental prediction of concern (Samah Ibnou-Laaroussi at al., 2020).
Overall, in the 21st century, green tourism has gained a lot of attention due to its environmental benefits. Along with the benefits, it gives many opportunities such as local economy-boosting (39.8%), quality local lifestyle (14.3%), job opportunities (13.6%), diversification (10.7%), promotes community pride (10.2%), new business development (6.2%) and income generation (5.2%) to promote localities and the country economy. Further, it has also been observed that socio-demographic variables like gender (χ²=38.039a, sig=0.00), education (χ²=126.283a, sig=0.00), occupation (χ²=63.977a, sig=0.00) and age (χ²=35.130a, sig=0.009) has an impact on the opportunities for the advancement of green tourism in the Northeast region. According to the
researcher (Samah Ibnou-Laaroussi at al., 2020), females travellers expresses more environmental concern as compare to male travellers, that is why they have shown willingness to buy local products as compare to the brands. This increases the opportunities for local economy- boosting to create more unique eco- friendly product. Hence it can be concluded that, there are golden opportunities available in the north-east region for tourism industry. (H1 accepted) 3.5 Attitude of Neighbourhood Individuals
(S.C. Bagri, Devkant Kala, 2016) In the northeast region, India, older citizens are more optimistic about tourism than younger citizens. Localities have a welcoming attitude towards tourists and have already sensitized themselves for politeness, professionalism, and decorum.
This could mainly be seen among the workforce in the tourism, hospitality and transportation sectors. In addition, these localities are also familiar with the Hindi language because of many tourist walk- ins. In regards to the attitude of neighbourhood individuals, the following perspectives such as an update on the eco-tourism news (3.73), open to further tourism development (3.71), try to convince others on green tourism (3.70).
Join a group to talk about eco-tourism (3.23) and join a committee to support green tourism (3.22) that have been adopted by the localities to support tourism.
Table 5: Attitude of Neighbourhood Individuals
A one-sample t-test is adopted on the parametric data to evaluate the significance level. As a result, the significant value for all the attitudes is close to 0.00, lesser than the tolerance limit of 0.05. hence it can be concluded that there is an attitude of neighbourhood individuals, consumer conduct and steadfastness in the travel industry division. The degree of freedom of the data is 419, with an average mean difference of 2.48. Further, according to the researcher (S.C. Bagri, Devkant Kala, 2016), tourists positively impact the socio-cultural aspects of localities and the community.
(H2 accepted).
Table 6 One-Sample Test
3.6 Techniques & Technologies for the Development of the Travel Industry in the North-Eastern Region
The tourism sector's persistent effort to put forward the monetary development and create employment at a faster rate in comparison to the other sectors of the economy has driven the Public authority of India (GOI) to change its policy pertaining to a tourist visa, foster
framework, and legitimize the paces of extravagance charge in accord with best practices followed by nations across the globe. Also, as of late Government of India has recently come up with a National Tourism Policy 2015 to promote the country as a heaven for ―honeymooners‖.
Furthermore, for realizing the objective of swift economic development, the new government has set forth ―Tourism‖ as a core portion. In addition, the state government has also adopted a few techniques and technologies for the development of the travel industry in the North-eastern Region.
3.6.1 Techniques
There are seven techniques such as environmental and sustainable approach (59.0%), community approach (20.7%), systematic approach (6.4%), integrated approach (6.0%), systems approach (5.0%), comprehensive approach(2.1%) and implementable approach(0.7%) adopted by the government on Northeast region for the tourism development, out of which environmental and sustainable technique (59.0%) have been stood out significantly because this technique focuses mainly on the challenge oriented technique or approach to the solutions which means managing and conserving resources particularly those who are not renewable or are precious in terms of life support. Through this activity, air, water, and land pollution minimize (UNEP, 2020). Further, the second important technique is the systematic approach (6.4%). This brings the thinking ―out of the box‖. This approach mainly talks about the thinking dimensions towards interconnectivity, awareness interdependency, and the system behaviour responsibility, which could be observed via feedback loops. The third important technique is the integrated approach (6%) followed by the systems approach (5.0%), comprehensive approach (2.1%) and implementable approach (0.7%). According to the researcher (Francesca Alessandra Lisi, Floriana Esposito, 2015), tourism is linked with the localities, place, and nature. It has strong connections with the local resources, products, activities, services, and production along with the local community.
3.6.1.1 Gender
In assessing the gender impact on the techniques for the development and advancement of the travel industry in the Northeastern region of India, the chi- square method is adopted, and the value is 37.455a with the degree of freedom 6and significant value is0.00, less than 0.05. This means gender plays an essential role in the development and advancement of the travel industry in the Northeastern region of India. Additionally, it has been observed that male travellers (63.5%) are more prone to developing and improving the travel industry in the Northeastern region of India than female travellers (36.4%).
3.6.1.2 Education
In assessing the educational impact on the techniques for the development and advancement of the travel industry in the Northeastern region of India, the chi- square method is adopted, and the value is 54.096a with the degree of freedom 24,and significant value is0.00, less than 0.05. This means travellers education plays an essential role in the development and advancement of the travel industry in the Northeastern region of India.
Additionally, it has been observed that travellers whose education is at least graduation (40.4%) are more inclined towards developing and improving the travel industry in the Northeastern region of India.
3.6.1.3 Occupation
In assessing the occupational impact on the techniques for the development and advancement of the travel industry in the Northeastern region of India, the chi- square method is adopted, and the value is 80.480a with the degree of freedom 18,and significant value is0.00, less than 0.05. This means travellers occupation plays an essential role in the development and advancement of the travel industry in the Northeastern region of India.
Additionally, it has been observed that government job travellers (43.5%) are more inclined towards developing and improving the travel industry in the Northeastern region of India.
3.6.1.4 Age
In assessing the age impact on the techniques for the development and advancement of the travel industry in the Northeastern region of India, the chi- square method is adopted, and the value is 49.876a with the degree of freedom 18,
and significant value i s0.00, less than 0.05. This means travellers age plays an essential role in the development and advancement of the travel industry in the Northeastern region of India. Additionally, it has been observed that travellers aged 18 and above are more inclined towards developing and improving the travel industry in the Northeastern region of India.
Overall, techniques have significantly impacted the development and advancement of the travel industry in the Northeastern region of India. However, the impact of socio- demographic factors such as gender (χ²=37.455a, sig=0.00), education (χ²=54.096a, sig=0.00), occupation (χ²=80.480a, sig=0.00) and age (χ²=49.876a, sig=0.009) on techniques have also been observed. The main five techniques shortlisted by the travellers are as follows environmental and sustainable approach (59.0%). community
approach (20.7%), systematic approach (6.4%), integrated approach (6.0%) and systems approach (5.0%).
3.7 Issues, Possible Solutions and Future Trend related to the Green Tourism
The objective of green tourism is to deliver a positive experience for hosts and visitors. However, green tourism is facing numerous issues. Therefore, an attempt has been made to understand the current issues, possible solutions, and future green tourism trends in the study.
Frequency distribution and one sample parametric test methods have been adopted to prioritize the issues, possible solutions and the future trend discussed by the travellers. Issues in Green tourism: The main issues discussed by the travellers are as follows threats to indigenous cultures (69.0%), environmental dispute because of travel (70.5%), degradation of the ecosystem (47.6%) and relocation of locals as green tourism inevitably leads to development (48.8%).Among all the four disputes, environmental dispute because of travel (70.5%) is the foremost one because in exotic places, travellers travel via boats, car, or air. All these mediums generate a vast amount of pollution, which affects the local environment, especially in noise, air and land pollution forms. The second necessary factor is threats to indigenous cultures (69.0%); this is because of an increase in the number of travellers, due to which freedom of cultural expression within natives gets hampered. Also, most natives are seen mainly as prop tour guides, making them feel objectified and encouraging stereotypes. This continuous interaction between the localities and the travellers may cause a gradual culture shift. The third important issue is the degradation of the ecosystem (47.6%). The main aim of green tourism is to preserve the environment, but regrettably, it is a challenge in itself because of the increase in demand in resources such as food and water, stressing the environment to accommodate more travellers. Fourth, and the last one is the relocation of locals as green tourism inevitably leads to development (48.8%). Through a one- sample parametric t- test, all these issues found significant with probability values less than 0.05. Hence it infers that, there
are issues related to green tourism in the Northeast region, India.
Table 8 Issues Facing Green-tourism Frequency Distribution
Table 9 Issues Facing Green-tourism One-Sample Test
Possible Solutions: Regarding the possible solutions, four solutions have been worked out-post discussing with the travellers, and they are as follows:-
• Reduction of environmental impact (55%): The environment gets affected because of non-stop flights. Where ever possible, travellers should use public transport, walk, or trek.
• Research before hiring green tourism agencies (50.5%)
• Should choose programs that educate green tourism (50%)
• Be part of the solution (46.4%): While touring, it is highly advisable not to disrupt localities lives and the places around. Travellers also should not scare or feed animals.
These solutions are significant in nature and have a significance level less than the tolerance limit of 0.05. A one- sample parametric test is used to find the significance level of the possible solutions where the t-value of the solutions are as follows the reduction of environmental impact (6.475), should choose programs that educate green tourism (10.816), be the part of the solution (11.621), and research before hiring green tourism agencies (11.557).
Table 10 Possible Solutions related to the Green Tourism Frequency
Distribution
Table 11 Possible Solutions To Green tourism One-Sample Test
Future Trend: According to the travellers, the future trend would be empowering local women (54.3%). This will help in many ways, such as it help women to become financially stable, can take decisions on their household issues, be additional support for their family etc.
The second significant trend is sustainable accommodations (4.3%).
Green tourism helps in reducing the adverse environmental impact because of this interaction with the localities increases that brings better eco-logical choices. The third trend is sustainable volunteering (49%). It has been seen that nowadays, travellers volunteers for their trip to make the place better. This is a trend that is gradually being accepted by many green travellers. Few things that travellers choose to volunteer are as follows activities or programs that make the place better, conduct training programs for localities etc. The fourth and fifth trend is green housing (48.6%) and boycotting riding and petting of wild animals(47.6%).
These trends are significant in nature and have a significance level less than the tolerance limit of 0.05. A one- sample parametric test is used to find the significance level of the possible solutions where the t-value of the solutions are as follows sustainable accommodations (26.541), empower local women (24.467), boycotting riding and petting of wild animals (26.204), sustainable volunteering (25.710) and green accommodation (26.530).
Table 12 Future trend related to the Green Tourism Frequency Distribution
Table 13 Future Trends in Green- tourism One-Sample Test
Hence, overall, it can be concluded that there are issues, problems and trends related to the tourism industry in North East India. (H4 accepted).
4. DISCUSSION AND RESULT
The first objective is to investigate the Truth and Golden Opportunities in North East Region, Tourism Industry. Results concluded that in the 21st century, green tourism has gained much attention due to its environmental benefits. According to the researcher Samah Ibnou-Laaroussi et al., 2020), female travelers express environmental concern compared to male travelers; that is why they have shown willingness to buy local products
compared to the brands. This increases the opportunities for local economy- boosting to create a unique eco-friendly product. Hence, there are golden opportunities available in the northeast region for the tourism industry.
The second objective is to study the attitude of neighborhood individuals, consumer conduct, and steadfastness in the travel industry division. It can be concluded that there is an attitude of neighborhood individuals, consumer conduct, and steadfastness in the travel industry division. According to the researcher (S.C. Bagri, Devkant Kala, 2016), tourists positively impact the socio-cultural aspects of localities and the community.
The third objective is to discover different techniques for developing and advancing the travel industry in the Northeastern region of India. Results concluded that there are techniques and technologies for developing and advancing the travel industry in the Northeastern region of India. In the literature, we found that Kumar Dixit (2014), in his article entitled, "Community Attitude towards Tourism Development: Study of Meghalaya, India," has said that the effects of the travel industry have been sensibly all around inquired about, especially from the natural and monetary points of view. As of late, consideration has swung to investigating the social effects of the travel industry, and vital research is developing around there. The investigation includes exploratory meetings with the nearby occupants in stage one and a field study to evaluate the effects of the travel industry advancement on the neighborhood inhabitants in stage two. Information is gathered from 200 neighborhood inhabitants.
5. CONCLUSION
India has been the most diverse nation and the tourism sector is one of the most crucial industries to increase the economic state of the nation. Green or eco-tourism within the nation is the most thriving sector which has allowed the Indian tourism department to manage and save its magnificent natural beauty.
Several zoological parks, biological parks, wildlife sanctuaries, lush green jungles, mighty mountains, and tea plantations are there in India. Besides, the nation has
been popular for its tribal population and exclusive nature. This indicates that the tourism sector particularly green-tourism activities can flourish and prosper extensively in the nation. Moreover, the study has focused on the green-tourism trends practiced particularly in north- eastern India. It has attempted to highlight all the aspects of this tourism trend. It has also considered the criteria based on which the trend can be approved. A thorough review of the topic has helped to explore the matter of research. Tourism, based on the green or eco concept is regarded as the modern technique of travel. Multiple tourist destinations in the north-eastern region can let the tourist feel an exotic and natural experience. Moreover, the study has also highlighted the contribution of the tourism-based organizations and tourism ministry departments particularly in the northeast of India. Community and economic development are possible with the approval of green-tourism. The north- east region of the nation is the wealth of India's natural beauty and rich in traditional cultures. It is also the home to a wide range of biodiversity. Tourism operations in the pace are a symbiosis between the locals and nature which eventually supports the creation of a beautiful mutual association between man and nature. Green-tourism stands to hold the balance between within nature and also attempts to maintain the sustainability of the environment. The study tends to highlight the effective approach and key aspects of green- tourism. This study can be properly presented since it is based on the green tourism trend in north-east India where the place itself provides an abode to multiple ecotourism destinations. The potential of the region to explore this mode of tourism has to be addressed and strategically planned. Sustainable tourism is also implied with the trend of eco and green-tourism. A better approach towards this can help make the region as well as the nation to be at the topmost ranking in the travel and tourism sector. The Indian government is attempting to take a strategic approach towards building the infrastructure of sustainable tourism.
They are concerned about preserving the natural characteristics of the surroundings. Abidance of the natural
aspects in tourism operations can allow the ushering of thousands of tourists from all around the globe. Apart from getting familiar with nature, green- tourism also encourages the criteria of conservation-based initiatives. This study also comprises the possible challenges that the operational development of the tourism sector has experienced over time.
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