Review Paper
Challenges in globalizing the Taj Mahal- Impact on regional economy
The Taj has stood steadfast, an indomitable symbol of India’s cultural heritage, over years of evolution and subsequent modernization of our country. Over the generations, it has only gained popularity, not only adding to the country’s glory but also becoming a major earner of revenue for the Indian government. Even though it has earned itself a coveted spot amongst the seven wonders of the world, the need to consider the further effective globalization of the Taj, its challenges and consequences, is more necessary than we like to think. The challenges to the globalization of Taj largely include the upkeep of its surroundings, the tourism facilities that are available, and the preservation of the other tourist attractions around the Taj. A preliminary bird’s eye view of the historical city of Agra, home to this monument, amongst many others, displays the connection that exists between these largely forgotten heritage sites, and the Taj Mahal. There is also need for consideration of the further development of the booming business in handicrafts which display Mughal craftsmanship of the days of yore, and the erosive effect of rapid construction of structures, on the ecological health of the city. In addition to the above, the recent spat in the number of industrial units in the area, and the lack of any world-class facilities, amongst others, also present major challenges to the task of bringing the Taj closer to the global audience. While the paper seeks to lay down the need, and the hurdles that exist in catapulting the monument to a higher position, globally, yet, the paper also lineally presents the efforts that have been made till present, to overcome each of the identified challenges. While advertisements, cleanliness drives, greater facilities for tourists, the stricter procedure for the public, and the popularised public interest litigation of the Taj Trapezium case, have gone a long way in securing a global platform for the Taj, much still needs to be done to significantly achieve the same. The paper seeks to discuss many varied and unique solutions to the issue at hand, while closely reminding the reader the impact the same will have on the regional economy of the area. The paper hence, seeks to successfully establish the relation of micro-commerce of the region of Agra, with the varied solutions that could be adopted to bring about further globalisation of the Taj, the vista of opportunities that will subsequently open up for employment in the region, and the positive impact on the overall economic development of the country.
Published by: Suneet Silas
Author: Suneet Silas
Paper ID: V5I3-2003
Paper Status: published
Published: June 25, 2019
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