An Analytical Study on the Tourists' Perspectives of Socio-Economic Impacts and Challenges of Border Tourism in Punjab

Abstract

This paper, "An Analytical Study on the Tourists' Perspectives of Socio-Economic Impacts and Challenges of Border Tourism in Punjab," is designed to analyze the socio-economic effects and challenges faced by tourists at border tourism destinations in Punjab. A structured approach has been used where an online comprehensive questionnaire is filled out by the tourists at key border destinations such as Amritsar (Attari-Wagah Border), Tarn Taran, Gurdaspur, Ferozpur (Ganda Singh Wala-Hussainiwala Border), and Fazilka (Sadqi-Sulemanki Border). Using a convenience sampling method, there are 224 valid responses gathered regarding tourist perceptions of socio-economic impacts and challenges. Data were analyzed by using SPSS software, and factor analysis was used to assess socio-economic impacts, while the Friedman test was used to assess challenges. Findings reveal that border tourism in Punjab significantly influences culture, economy, and infrastructure and cultivates cultural exchange, ensures the preservation of traditions, helps improve employment, and provides regional development. On the other hand, through the study, various challenges have emerged such as accommodation shortage and overcrowding, insufficient medicinal facilities, and bad direction. This requires improvement in all infrastructure along with proper management. In conclusion, whereas border tourism in Punjab holds great socio-economic benefits, improvement of existing challenges through better facility and management strategies could enhance the tourism experience and further spur local economic growth.