International Journal of Humanities and Social Science Research

Authors
Thippeswamy G

Abstract
The state of Karnataka accounts for around 5% of India’s national income and the State have been ranked No. 1 by the World Bank for its investment climate in a study that analyzed 16 States using 46 investment parameters. The fact that one new MNC invests in the State every week is testimony for the fact that Karnataka is the leading investment destination in the country. One of the fastest-growing states in the country, Karnataka has a strong industrial base and vibrant tertiary sector. The services sector, has in fact been, the engine of growth. The state of Karnataka is one of India’s leading industrial states, contributing almost 8% to the national manufacturing income. It has a long tradition of supporting entrepreneurs, and encouraging innovation and research. Its strong and vibrant industrial base combines the intrinsic strengths of large industrial public sector undertakings, large and medium privately owned industries, a wide range of small-scale units. Tourism is one of the fastest growing industries of the world. It plays a vital role in the economic development of a country. India is one of the popular tourist destinations in Asia. Bounded by the Himalayan ranges in the north and surrounded, on three sides by water, India offers a wide array of places to see and things to do. The enchanting backwaters, hill stations and landscapes make India a beautiful country. They attract tourists from all over the world. Tourism is the second largest foreign exchange earner in India. The tourism industry employs a large number of people both skilled and unskilled. Tourism is the largest service industry in India with a contribution of 6.23 percent of the national GDP and 8, 78 percent of the total employment in India. Hotels, travel agencies, transport including airlines benefit a lot from this industry. Tourism promotes national integration and international understanding. It generates foreign exchange. It promotes cultural activities. The diverse geographical locales of India delight the tourists. The monuments, museums, forts, sanctuaries, places of religious interest, palaces, etc. offer a treat to the eyes. Every region is identified with its handicrafts, fairs, folk dances, music and its people. The Indian tourism industry has been hit by pollution. The effluents emitted by the Mathura Refinery has led to the decolourization of the Taj Mahal is Agra. The condition of many of our monuments is deteriorating due to the negligence of the authorities concerned.