Development of Eco-Tourism in India
India, with its diverse geography and rich heritage, is among the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Incredible India, extending from the snow-covered Himalayan heights to the tropical rain forests, attracts millions of tourists each year. In the year 2021, the tourism sector accounted for 6.1% of the country’s GDP providing employment to 289 million people. The sector is expected to grow further and will account for about 53 million jobs by the year 2029.
One of the key focus areas of the Ministry of Tourism has been the augmentation of the quality tourism infrastructure in the country. More than fifty percent of the Ministry’s expenditure on Plan schemes is incurred for the development of quality tourism infrastructure at various tourist destinations and circuits. The Union Budget 2022-23 for tourism development is 18.42% higher than 2021-22. Out of the INR 2400 crores, INR 1644 crores has been allocated for the development of tourism infrastructure. It includes a budget of INR 1181.30 crore for the Swadesh Darshan Scheme. Swadesh Darshan Scheme is a flagship scheme of the Ministry of Tourism that focuses on the integrated development of theme-based tourist circuits. Out of the total 76 sanctioned projects, 50 projects have been completed so far. Another flagship scheme is the PRASHAD Scheme, with an outlay of INR 235 crores, which focuses on the development of pilgrimage destinations across the country.
One of the niche tourism areas in the country is Eco-tourism. The World Tourism Organisation defines ecotourism as an experience/activity that supports the maintenance of natural areas which are used as ecotourism attractions by generating economic benefits for host communities. Eco-tourism stands for responsible and sustainable travel and is based on the following guiding principles:
In lieu of the global focus on sustainability, the Ministry of Tourism introduced the National Strategy for Sustainable Tourism and Responsible Traveller campaign in June 2022. The Strategy document has identified the strategic pillars for the development of sustainable tourism in India. It includes promoting environmental sustainability, protecting biodiversity, promoting economic sustainability, promoting socio-cultural sustainability, scheme for certification of sustainable tourism, and capacity building and governance.
The growth of ecotourism has also been incorporated into the currently in place tourist plans. 76 projects have been approved via the Swadesh Darshan Scheme since its start in 2015, according to the scheme. The second iteration of the programme has now been unveiled, with an emphasis on creating tourism places that are responsible and sustainable. Six projects with an eco-theme have been approved by the Ministry of Tourism for the Swadesh Darshan programme.
Additionally, in States/UTs like Jammu & Kashmir, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, ecotourism has been classified by the government as a "push industry." Hotels, resorts, spas, and ropeways are just a few of the ecotourism initiatives that can benefit from a range of incentives. Through the automated approach, 100% FDI is permitted in the industry. Incentives for the advancement of innovation are offered to assist the construction of ecotourism infrastructure. Up to a maximum of two units per year, 100% reimbursement is offered for attaining the eco-tourism society of India's requirements and certifications.
The Ministry of Tourism also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Responsible Tourism Society of India (RTSOI) in 2021. The aim is to work collaboratively towards sustainability initiatives in the tourism sector.
As people and Governments are becoming conscious of the environmental impact of development, Eco-tourism has emerged as an attractive investment opportunity. Along with economic and social benefits, eco-tourism brings in environmental benefits as well and will further help India in achieving its sustainability goals.
