Catalysts of India’s Tourism Boom
Global Tourism Forum
The Global Tourism Forum serves as the event brand of the London-based World Tourism Forum Institute.
India is experiencing a boom in tourism, but it also faces challenges regarding sustainability and responsible travel. How do you see this balancing act unfolding in the future, and what is the role of the government in promoting responsible tourism practices?
India’s tourism industry is witnessing remarkable growth, but with that comes the challenge of ensuring sustainability. India is one of the few countries in the world that in 2022 put in place a National Strategy for Sustainable Tourism which identifies seven strategic pillars to make India a global destination for sustainable and responsible tourism which includes protecting Biodiversity, promoting Economic Sustainability, promoting Socio-Cultural Sustainability, scheme for Certification of Sustainable Tourism amongst others. Further, the government has taken significant steps to address this, such as the Swachh Bharat Mission, which has led to the construction of over 110 million toilets nationwide, reducing littering in tourist areas, and the Green India Mission, focusing on eco-tourism and waste management. The Prashad and Swadesh Darshan schemes are prioritizing infrastructure development in eco-sensitive areas, supporting over 14 million annual visitors sustainably. Balancing growth and sustainability is essential to preserving India’s diverse landscapes, from the Himalayas to our coastal regions, for future generations.
How can we encourage responsible travel practices among tourists, especially regarding waste management, environmental conservation, and local community engagement? How do we ensure the protection of fragile ecosystems and the well being of local communities?
I’ll give the example of PM Modi, whenever he travels or after inaugurating a new project you see him picking up plastic bottles or engaging in a Swachh Bharat Abhigyan without hesitation. This has a trickle down and inspiring effect of citizens!
Responsible travel is vital to maintaining our cultural and environmental wealth. We should encourage tourists to engage in eco-friendly practices, such as minimizing plastic use and respecting local ecosystems. Through the Incredible India 2.0 campaign, the government is promoting sustainable tourism and eco-friendly travel experiences, with messaging reaching millions of tourists annually. Policies like the Plastic Waste Management Amendment and the single-use plastic ban aim to reduce approximately 3.6 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, helping protect India’s biodiversity and cultural heritage by involving tourists in these efforts.
What are your views on the potential for sustainable tourism to create economic opportunities in rural areas and empower marginalized communities?
There are numerous fairs organised across India that have become a calendar event on the global tourism circuit due to their emphasis on protecting and preserving local arts, crafts and ecosystems. Think about it, had we not emphasised on responsible and sustainable tourism - would the Rann of Kutch festival be what it is today, would the tigers of India have risen in numbers, would the corals remain alive in the blue waters of Lakshwadeep if hundreds of flights had landed there?
Sustainable tourism holds immense potential to uplift rural and marginalized communities across India. By promoting homestay initiatives, supporting local artisans, and developing eco-tourism hubs, we can create jobs and enhance livelihoods in rural areas. Programs like Dekho Apna Desh and One District, One Product (ODOP) are helping over 65% of India’s population in rural areas access tourism-driven economic growth, while preserving cultural traditions. This approach generates economic growth and offers tourists a more authentic experience, empowering local communities.
How can digital platforms be used to promote responsible tourism practices and educate tourists about sustainable travel?
Digital platforms play a pivotal role in shaping responsible tourism. And I will add the growing role of content creators who visit these places and inform people about it - they not only market the place and boost its economic activity but also help document it for generations on new social media platforms beyond just books, photos and movies. The Incredible India website and mobile apps now highlight eco-friendly destinations, sustainable travel practices, and conservation efforts, guiding millions of tourists towards minimizing their environmental impact. Collaborations with NITI Aayog to geo tag culturally significant sites ensure the preservation of natural spaces, making digital platforms crucial in helping tourists make informed and responsible choices.
What are your views on the potential of artificial intelligence and blockchain technology in the future of tourism? Could you share some key practices?
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AI and blockchain are game-changers for the future of tourism. Numerous startups and digital platforms in India leverage AI to personalize travel experiences, offer eco-friendly recommendations, and optimize itineraries to reduce environmental impact for over 1 billion users. Blockchain enhances transparency in sustainability certifications, ensuring that tourism businesses adhere to eco-friendly practices. These technologies are being explored to create smarter, more responsible tourism systems that benefit both travelers and the environment.
What are policy initiatives being undertaken by the government to promote sustainable and responsible tourism in India?
The biggest promotion of brand India is by the Prime Minister himself, when he visits a place it boosts its local economy manifold - Lakshwadeep is one example. Further his emphasis on cultural rejuvenation projects has helped build various religious circuits, along with better road and rail connectivity to upcoming regions. The UDAAN Sewa has also greatly boosted domestic tourism. For decades the icons of tourism in India were places built much before independence; today new eco parks, monuments, memorials, arts and crafts centres and a national museum of India - all with sustainability inbuilt into their upkeep and architecture are underway.
India is actively promoting responsible tourism through several initiatives. The National Mission for Sustainable Tourism and Dekho Apna Desh encourage travelers to explore the country sustainably. Focused on preserving natural resources, heritage conservation, and supporting local communities, these programs include the development of over 100 eco-tourism sites in partnership with states. With the Swadesh Darshan Scheme and ongoing collaboration across 15 states, the government is integrating eco-tourism in development plans, aligned with global sustainability goals.
What message would you like to convey to inspire the global youth to take proactive steps toward sustainability and to embrace responsibility in their journeys?
I am a true believer that our travel choices matter a lot. Each journey is an opportunity to protect the environment and support local communities. By embracing sustainable practices, we can help preserve our planet’s beauty for future generations. I urge the youth to take responsibility in their travels, make conscious decisions, and inspire others to do the same. Together, we can build a future where tourism benefits both people and the planet.
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Sait YARDIMCI is an esteemed Field Producer and Chairman of the Turkish Film Commission & B Category Basketball Manager
2wHaving worked in the tourism industry with India for many years, I've witnessed firsthand the country's impressive growth in this sector. While there have been significant advancements, there are still challenges, particularly around sustainability and responsible travel. Despite these challenges, India remains one of the most important tourism destinations globally, and this trend is likely to continue. The focus on preserving natural beauty and supporting local communities through sustainable practices is key to ensuring long-term success.