Page 87 - Connect 2024-25

Sustainable Tourism in India

Vishwas Murmure, PGDM – II

India, a country renowned for its rich and diverse cultural
heritage, has always been a favoured destination
for tourists from across the globe. From the majestic
Himalayas in the north to the serene backwaters of
Kerala in the south, and from the vibrant deserts of
Rajasthan to the lush greenery of the Northeast, India’s
vast geographical diversity offers something unique for
every traveller. Indian tourism has developed in various
ways from medical and yoga treatments, to spicy foods,
green field plateau regions, snow-capped mountains,
sand-filled desserts, and beautiful beaches. The tourism
industry in India not only contributes significantly have incorporated it into their Corporate
to the nation’s economy but also plays a crucial role Social Responsibility (CSR) policies. For
in promoting cultural exchange and understanding. instance, the Taj Group of Hotels has
However, the rapid growth of tourism has also brought implemented the ‘EARTH’ (Environment
about challenges such as environmental pollution, Awareness and Renewal at Taj Hotels) initiative,
cultural erosion, and socio-economic problems. This focusing on energy conservation, waste management,
has led to the adoption and promotion of sustainable and community development. In one of the movements,
tourism practices. Taj Hotels across India would switch off their lights for
Sustainable tourism is a concept that emphasizes the one hour on 25th March 2023. This is conducted to
need to balance the environmental, socio-cultural, and raise awareness regarding climate change and reduce
economic impacts of tourism activities. It aims to ensure carbon footprint. Taj Hotels has been working on
that the natural and cultural resources of a destination sustainability since 2009, in collaboration with ‘Earth
are preserved for future generations while providing Check’ which conducts the audit for sustainable practices
meaningful experiences for tourists and economic across all the hotel chains of Taj. Similarly, NGOs like
benefits for local communities. Sustainable tourism the Responsible Travel Initiative and the Ecotourism
promotes responsible travel practices, encourages Society of India are actively working towards promoting
conservation efforts, and supports local economies responsible travel practices and raising awareness
by involving communities in tourism planning and about the importance of sustainability in tourism. These
development. In a diverse and ecologically sensitive organizations collaborate with local communities to
country like India, the adoption of sustainable tourism develop eco-friendly tourism models, conduct training
practices is not just an option but a necessity to protect programs, and support conservation projects.
its incredible biodiversity and cultural sentiments. The Government of India has also taken significant
Numerous private foundations, non-governmental steps to promote sustainable tourism. The Ministry
organizations (NGOs), and companies in India have of Tourism has launched the ‘Swadesh Darshan’
recognized the importance of sustainable tourism and scheme which focuses on developing thematic tourist
circuits and pilgrimage sites across India in an eco-

87