Smart Tourism Technologies - A Key to Success and Survival for Sustainable Eco-tourism Development in Dooars Region (West Bengal)

Abstract

The role of information and communication technology (ICT) has become most essentials in tourism industry. However, use of ICT in Indian tourism industry is still in nascent state and as such will face difficulties to compete with their counterparts who have a sound ICT infrastructure. Indian tourism industries are facing problems with lack of various information, low resource availability, high transaction cost, and lack of infrastructure in ICT etc. Thus implementation of smart tourism practices with the help of ICT in eco-tourism destinations like Dooars are very challenging task as it is situated far away from the city and local community are not that much educated and aware for use of ICT in tourism activities. Therefore proper infrastructure and awareness are needed to overcome these challenges. ICT and smart tourism practices in Dooars region will help the tourist to identify better destination, accommodation, transportation, environment, local culture and products, community details, weather etc. Therefore, the aim of this study is to analyze the potential of using ICT as smart tourism which may help the local community to get high-quality and equal opportunity for education; professional skill development, efficient governance and administration. This study is based on a literature review, secondary data analysis and field visit observations. The results of this study will help in understanding the need and future scope for innovative technology for the development of local people, which will be helpful for the growth of sustainable ecotourism in Dooars region of West Bengal, India.