Dikhyaa Mohanty 
World Tourism Day is observed every year on September 27 to mark the anniversary of the adoption of the Statutes of the Organization in 1970, paving the way for the establishment of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). It is one of the many aspects that work towards boosting the country’s GDP as they provide employment opportunities to millions around the world. Not only that, it is a way to preserve a country’s culture and history as well as make everyone aware of the same.
The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) is a United Nations agency responsible for the promotion of responsible, sustainable and universally accessible tourism. Tourism’s political, socio-economic, and cultural impacts are discussed on this day as well as raise awareness about the same and how it impacts our economy.
HISTORY –
World Tourism Day was first designated in September 1979 by the World Tourism Organization but it officially began in 1980. It was organised to create awareness on how tourism affects social-cultural, political and economic values globally and the role of tourism within the international community.
The main significance of the day is to bring the world together and foster growth in various aspects. Tourism has a big role to play when it comes to a country’s economy, especially when it comes to employment opportunities
Theme –
This year, the theme is ‘Tourism for Inclusive Growth’ which aims to help people associated with the tourism sector in every possible way. COVID-19 had a major impact on everyone around the world. While it broke families, it also had a devastating impact on the global economy. One of the worst-hit sectors was tourism.
With this theme in mind, the UNWTO aims to rebuild the world by bringing back tourism as countries slowly return to normalcy. As tourism is restarted, it will be a big boost for the economy. UNWTO has urged businesses, tourists, UN agencies, member states and non-members to “celebrate tourism’s unique ability to ensure that nobody is left behind as the world begins to open up again and look to the future”
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik took to Twitter and quoted- “Unlocking the immense tourism potential of #Odisha has been our constant endeavour which is blessed with natural beauty, rich heritage, captivating landscapes & unique flora & fauna. On World Tourism Day, pledge to bring the focus back on tourism, post-pandemic, for inclusive growth.”
