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New Delhi: ‘Leave nothing but footprints; kill nothing but time and take nothing but photographs’.
This mantra of eco-tourism or sustainable tourism was coined and propagated in the 1990s. In the last few decades, India has witnessed a massive surge in eco consciousness and, in turn, many projects that call for minimizing the impact on environment while visiting a particular place have gained momentum.
Eco-tourism is not just a destination; it is a journey. Any plan promoting eco-tourism must travel through different stages of nature and cultural conservation, as well as environmental protection. Besides, it should involve local communities in tourism development, so that their economic well-being improves through their involvement in preserving both their culture and environment.
India has a dedicated National Policy for Eco-Tourism, which is meant to boost sustainable and environmentally responsible tourism practices across the country. The policy puts a lot of emphasis on the conservation of natural resources, protection of biodiversity, and improving the livelihoods of local communities through eco-friendly tourism initiatives. It is also aimed at raising awareness about environmental conservation among tourists, related industry players and other stakeholders, while also boosting the development of eco-conscious infrastructure and activities in eco-sensitive zones.
A number of regions have been marked as Eco-Sensitive Zones. Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs) in India are places surrounding protected areas, such as national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, that are designated for special protection because of their ecological importance. Kaziranga National Park (Assam), Sundarbans Biosphere Reserve, Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve (Uttarakhand), and many other regions are designated ESZs. When a region is declared as ESZ, it goes a long way in promoting the cause of eco-tourism.
Rural Homestay Scheme launched by Sikkim and Kerala’s Responsible Tourism Mission are meant to engage local communities in the tourism industry. These help in providing sustainable livelihoods to local communities, while preserving their culture. Rural tourism is also being given a push in many states, which also help in mitigating urban migration.
A number of ecodevelopment plans have been implemented to engage local communities in the management and protection of natural resources. Such initiatives have been launched in Kaziranga National Park and Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, among others.
The Ministry of Tourism, along with various state tourism boards, has rolled out a slew of Responsible Tourism initiatives to raise awareness about sustainable tourism, cultural conservation and reducing environmental impact of tourism.
Another measure to promote eco-tourism is providing certification to eco-friendly tour operators, which encourages travel companies to embrace sustainable practices. Such certification is given by India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) to those who follow the certification guidelines. Tour operators who reduce waste, harness renewable resources, and support local communities qualify for this certificate.
Eco-tourism initiatives by industry players are also acknowledged by giving National Tourism Awards to the most deserving.
Many eco-lodges and green hotels are also getting recognition for adhering to sustainable building practices, while using renewable energy, and recycling water. A number of hotels and tourist accommodations – mostly in Rishikesh and Kerala – are increasingly adopting waste management, rainwater harvesting, and energy-efficient systems.
Eco-tourism is also getting a huge impetus in the Northeastern states, including Sikkim, Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh. Sikkim has an Ecotourism Policy in place under which many eco-tourism hubs have been established. The Sikkim Registration of Tourist Trade Rules 2025, was implemented. Under it, a Rs 50 entry fee is collected by hotels during check-in. This fee applies to all tourists, except children. The implementation of this fee represents a significant move towards promoting eco-tourism in the state.
The revenue generation from this fee is allocated to the Tourism Sustainability Development (TSD) Fund. This fund is meant to improve tourism infrastructure, enhance road connectivity, maintain cleanliness, and develop facilities to provide a better experience for visitors.
