Tourism and Employment: Opportunities and Challenges in Karnataka- Special Reference To Kodagu District

Tourism is an industry capable of changing the socio-cultural, economic and environmental face of the world .Tourism is one of the largest and fast growing industries in the world. It has the potential to influence the living pattern of communities. It is one of the most important channels of cultural exchange which breaks down the barriers between people of different parts of the world. It is the collection of activities, services and industries that deliver a travel experience including transportation, accommodation, eating and drinking establishments of retail shops, entertainment, business and other hospitality services provided for individuals or groups of travelling away from home. In developing countries like India tourism has become one of the major sectors of the economy, contributing to a large proportion of the National income and generating huge employment opportunities. It has become the fastest growing service industry in the country with great potentials for its further expansion and diversification. Tourism industry is capable to generate employment to both skilled and unskilled workers, directly and indirectly.