Dynamics of Information Technology (IT) in Tourism Promotion

The importance of Information Technology (IT) in tourism has increased tremendously over the years. Role of IT within the context of tourism travel and hospitality is of profound importance in a nation's development. It has influenced all walks of our lives over the last few decades in an incredible manner with the Tourism and Travel sector being one of the principal beneficiaries. With the advent of IT into the travel sector, things have changed. Travel has become much more enjoyable and comfortable. Places of tourist interest and scenic beauty often do not catch the attention of the customer largely due to the fact that they are not marketed well. The advent of the Internet is also having deep impacts on the industry. Manipur has its own physical and social constraints. The state has a complex social composition with diverse ethnic communities including different scheduled tribes of different ethnic origins. There is apparent disparity in the level of income and consumption between the rich and poor, between public living in the hills and valleys. IT can play an important role in the socio-economic and political development of the state. It can create new employment opportunities. IT can promote tourism and bring positive opportunities for community development even in the remotest district of Manipur. This paper examines the present status of Information Technology, role of State in promoting IT, its policies and subsequently promotion of tourism in Manipur.