RAS question
Tourism contributes approximately what percentage to Rajasthan's GSDP?
Correct answer: (B) 8-10%.
Tourism contributes approximately 8-10% to Rajasthan's Gross State Domestic Product.
Explanation
Tourism is treated as a major economic sector in Rajasthan because it contributes close to one-tenth of the state's GSDP. The ETGovernment interview says tourism accounts for nearly 10% of Rajasthan's GSDP and sustains lakhs of livelihoods, directly and indirectly, across hotels, guides, transport providers, artisans, folk performers and women’s self-help groups making handicrafts. That matches the 8-10% range better than any fixed lower or higher figure. Rajasthan's strong position in domestic tourism is consistent with tourism being a broad livelihood multiplier rather than a small, niche activity.
Why the other options are wrong
- (A) 20% overstates tourism's share; ETGovernment places the contribution near 10%, not one-fifth of GSDP.
- (C) 15% is higher than the supported range, since ETGovernment describes the contribution as nearly 10%.
- (D) 3% understates the sector's role; ETGovernment links tourism to nearly 10% of GSDP and lakhs of livelihoods.
Concept
This tests Rajasthan economy under the role of tertiary-sector activities in GSDP and employment. It recurs in RAS because tourism connects state income, livelihoods, regional identity and policy priorities in one factual theme.