Tag Archives: sustainable tourism

Highlighting Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh’s initiatives to promote sustainable tourism through the introduction of a 50 per cent subsidy on GSTC certification fees, CB Ramkumar, Vice Chair, GSTC, raised concerns about the practical challenges of these policies, pointing out that despite the announcement, ‘no fiscal allocations had been made to fund the subsidy, which leaves the policy lacking in execution.’

Fiji is redefining sustainable tourism with the launch of Loloma Hour, a first-of-its-kind initiative that invites visitors to spend an hour making a positive environmental, cultural, or community impact during their stay. Dubbed a ‘happy hour for the environment,’ Loloma Hour embodies the Fijian spirit of Loloma—acting with generosity, driven by love. Whether planting coral, restoring mangroves, or engaging in cultural traditions, travellers can leave a positive mark on Fiji while experiencing its unique way of life. New approach to sustainable travel Tourism Fiji created the ‘Loloma Hour’ initiative as part of the country’s overarching sustainability goals that aim to preserve its natural beauty and cultural heritage by unifying and amplifying sustainability efforts across Fiji’s vital tourism industry. With travellers becoming more conscious of their environmental and social impact, Loloma Hour positions Fiji as a leader in sustainable tourism. The initiative not only enhances Fiji’s appeal to eco-conscious travellers but also strengthens its reputation as a destination that prioritises cultural and environmental stewardship. “True happiness comes not just from what you take, but what you give,” says Srishti Narayan, Chief Marketing Officer, Tourism Fiji. “Loloma Hour gives visitors a chance to help preserve what makes Fiji so special—its people, environment, and traditions,” she added. How it works Visitors can take part in Loloma Hour through partnering resorts, hotels, and tour operators across Fiji, with activities spanning four key pillars: Giving Back to Wildlife: Conservation walks, marine research, and species protection Giving Back to the Community: Cultural storytelling, traditional weaving, and village programmes Giving Back to the Reef: Coral planting, reef restoration, and marine habitat building Giving Back to the Coastline: Mangrove planting, tree restoration, and beach cleanups Participating resorts Leading …

Ravi Jain, Secretary, Tourism Rajasthan, said, “The state has allocated a budget of ₹5000 crore to promote cultural heritage and sustainable tourism, conserve heritage sites, and initiate new projects. Additionally, IIFA Awards 2025, scheduled for 7-9 March in Jaipur, will elevate state’s global appeal by promoting film tourism, local art and culture.

According to a report prepared by FHRAI, KPMG and PHDCCI, India’s sustainable tourism market is projected to grow at CAGR of 19.3 per cent by 2032. Eco-tourism alone is projected to expand by 15.7 per cent from 2019 to 2027, reaching a staggering market size of US$4.55 billion.

As we celebrate World Tourism Day 2024, with its theme of “Tourism and Peace,” a compelling new case study titled “Tides of Change: The Story of Lakshadweep Tourism” is capturing global interest. Released in July 2024 in the renowned Tourism Cases by CABI, UK, this study is authored by Dr. Aditi Choudhary and Mahima Gopalkrishna from the Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management (IITTM), Noida. “Tides of Change” is a comprehensive examination of Lakshadweep’s tourism development, the first of its kind to explore the balance between tourism expansion and the sustainability of these pristine islands. The study delves into the interplay between policymakers, local communities, cultural preservation, and ecological conservation, offering a model of destination stewardship. This model aligns seamlessly with the 2024 theme, demonstrating how tourism can be a force for peace by fostering collaboration, inclusivity, and environmental stewardship. Lakshadweep, with its delicate ecosystems and vibrant cultural heritage, should be developed   as a prime example of how tourism can support local economies while promoting social harmony and environmental care. The study outlines tourism developmental strategies that emphasise community involvement and environmental responsibility—crucial components for achieving sustainable and peaceful tourism growth. This case study provides a valuable framework for Indian tourism stakeholders, showcasing how responsible tourism practices can lead to sustainable development in vulnerable island environments. It is an essential resource for researchers, policymakers, and tourism professionals, offering insights that support the vision of tourism as a catalyst for peace and sustainability.

Under its Tourism Policy 2022-2032, UP government will provide 50 per cent reimbursement of certification fees established for tour operators for obtaining GSTC certification to promote sustainable tourism. Tour operators can benefit from this initiative and will have up to ₹5 lakh reimbursed. 

At IFTM-Top Resa 2024 in Paris, India’s tourism sector made a strong impression, with participation from private players and key states like Rajasthan, UP, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. The event featured 170 destinations and 1,400 global brands. India’s presence at this event themed ‘New Sustainable Horizons,’ highlights the country’s commitment to sustainability.

More than 20 travel industry specialists travelled down to Goa onboard FLY91 and were hosted at IHCL’s Goa Resorts during the familiarisation trip.  The familiarisation trip is aimed at promoting Goa, which is focused on sustainable and regenerative tourism, as an immersive leisure tourism destination with diverse potential to host destination weddings and MICE events.  During the familiarisation trip to Goa onboard FLY91, travel operators were acquainted with the airline’s customisable travel arrangements for large travel groups, including weddings and MICE events  In a move aimed at enhancing the Goa experience beyond the state’s beaches, India’s pure-play regional airline, FLY91, has partnered with Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) to offer an enriched and multi-faceted travel experience to the coastal state.    To showcase this vision, FLY91 and IHCL recently organised a familiarisation trip for a delegation of leading travel agents and event planners from Hyderabad, that is designed to provide firsthand experience of Goa’s hospitality and regional connectivity, already reckoned as a leading destination for weddings, leisure, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions).  As part of the familiarisation trip, the delegation of travel industry stakeholders who flew down to Goa onboard FLY91 were hosted at IHCL’s multiple properties, namely Taj Fort Aguada Resort and Spa and Taj Cidade de Goa Horizon. During the trip the team visited Taj Holiday Village Resort and Spa, Taj Cidade de Goa Heritage and the Taj Exotica Resort and Spa.  This collaboration is a key step in building a sustainable tourism model that combines luxury accommodation with seamless travel options, ensuring Goa remains a sought-after destination. It aims to enhance the visitor experience by showcasing that Goa offers much more than just its beaches and …

Siddharth Jain, Founder, Director, Chalo DMC LLP, Director, Membership Development, SKAL Pune shared his excitement for the upcoming Pedal for Purpose Cyclothon in Pune. “Pune is one of the fastest-growing markets for the tourism industry. SKAL is organising a unique event called Pedal for Purpose Cyclothon for the travel fraternity in Pune. It is a blend of fun and social impact that will kick off World Tourism Week on 22 September. I invite all industry members to join this grand affair, which will be a wonderful experience for both participants and their families.” SKAL International Pune’s Pedal for Purpose will celebrate World Tourism Week 2024 with a thrilling cyclothon. The cyclothon aims to promote sustainability, foster networking within the travel fraternity, and contribute to important causes such as road safety, tree planting and reducing plastic use. Participants can look forward to a scenic route, impactful stopovers, and a grand celebration with food, games, entertainment, and networking opportunities. Unite, celebrate, and impact as the travel fraternity comes together for Pune’s first-ever cycle marathon. Registration door to open soon. YouTube SKAL Pune I India

The 16th Annual Convention of the Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) is scheduled to take place from 3-8 December, 2024 in the panoramic town of Tawang. This year’s event promises to be a memorable journey of networking, learning and adventure with a focus on sustainable tourism, safety protocols and extraordinary travel experiences. Industry leaders will have the opportunity to network while exploring the breathtaking beauty of Arunachal Pradesh.