New Delhi, Jun 24 (IANS): Proper human resource development, such as training of taxi drivers and certification of tour operators, are crucial for a robust tourism industry, said a study Sunday.

"While infrastructural development is essential for a robust and sustained growth of the travel and tourism industry, without simultaneous attention to human resource development, proper utilisation becomes an issue, which either leads to a premature depreciation of infrastructure or its under-utilisation," said the study by industry lobby FICCI and Yes Bank.

The study urged the government to make the tour guide associations a consultative partner as it will not only provide the government with an insight into the guides' problems but also a training dissemination platform.

It suggested action points for taxi drivers saying that the safety of the tourists is in the hands of the these drivers and their behavioural pattern defines the comfort level of the tourist.

Good training and capacity building will not only increase their business possibility but also build up brand India.

It calls for workshops in communication skills to be conducted by the state governments, where even the owners need to be trained in best behaviour practices with guests.

According to the study, certification of travel and tour operators is also a crucial aspect as it provides a degree of credibility to these operators and gives them confidence in their ability to offer the services as promised.

The tourism ministry has a scheme of approving travel agents, inbound tour operators, adventure tour operators, domestic tour operators and other sectors.

However, the operators covered under this scheme should be reviewed periodically and initiatives should be undertaken to increase its reach, the study said.

Another innovation that can be introduced is the concept of star category rating of travel and tour operators where the rating parameter is developed keeping in mind the different components that make up a tourism product, it added.

The study also said there is an urgent need to institutionalise capacity building in all segments of the hotel industry, particularly in emerging options such as budget hotels and service apartments and even the restaurants and hotels present in the unorganised segment.

Recent studies have shown that the preference for accommodation is gradually shifting away from budget to the semi-luxury and luxury segment.