Responsible Tourism with Reference to India

As one saying wisely notes, “The traveler sees what he sees, the tourist sees what he has come to see.” Tourism benefits not only individuals but also society. Personally, it opens doors to the wider world, allowing people to discover, understand, and immerse themselves in places beyond their own. In doing so, it broadens one’s knowledge of diverse cultures, customs, and traditions. Simply put, travel cultivates humility. This article explores the concept of Responsible Tourism, essentially, self-sustained tourism—with a special focus on India.

Tourism Value & Benefits to the society & country

• Growth and boost in Economic activities.
• Boost wide scale industry revenues.
• Infrastructure development.
• Country’s improved brand image.
• Source of foreign exchange earnings.
• Source of revenue & livelihood to local communities.
• Source of employment generation.
• Connectivity and growth to local, regional and even the remotest areas.

India proudly showcases its diverse geography by placing the majestic Himalayan ranges along its northern frontier and embracing three sides with expansive coastlines. As a result, India offers travelers a wealth of experiences—from serene backwaters and charming hill stations to captivating natural landscapes. Moreover, its blend of scenic splendor and architectural brilliance consistently draws visitors from around the globe.

India enjoys a remarkable advantage in tourism, thanks to its abundance of historical monuments, grand shrines, sacred temples, pilgrimage sites, wildlife sanctuaries, hill stations, sea resorts, and winter sports destinations.. Besides, it offers a great variety of cultures, religions, festivals, languages, fairs, music, etc.

Tourism, to begin with, greatly supports key service sectors such as hotels, travel agencies, and various modes of transport including airlines. In addition, it plays a pivotal role in promoting national integration and enhancing international understanding. Consequently, tourism also becomes a vital source of foreign exchange, strengthening the nation’s economic framework..

Employment Opportunities in Tourism

Tourism creates numerous job opportunities for local communities, enhances their livelihoods, promotes cultural activities, and actively supports traditional handicrafts.

Tourism actively stimulates business and commercial sectors such as transportation, hospitality, shopping, and banking. As a result, it plays a crucial role in reducing unemployment by generating abundant job opportunities. Moreover, travel and tourism offer immense educational, cultural, recreational, and global value. For both domestic and international travelers, every journey presents a fresh, invigorating, and enriching experience. Ultimately, tourism fosters harmony, nurtures friendships, and promotes goodwill across borders.

India has a composite culture. There is a harmonious blend of art, religion and philosophy. Despite enduring numerous invasions, India has actively preserved her originality while skillfully embracing the finest aspects of external influences. India has fascinated people from all over the world with her secularism and her culture.

The diverse geographical locales of India delight the tourists. The monuments, museums, forts, sanctuaries, places of religious interest, palaces, etc. offer a treat to the eyes. Each region showcases its identity through unique handicrafts, vibrant fairs, folk dances, music, and its people.

In 2005 the Indian Tourism Development Corporation started a campaign called Incredible India to encourage tourism in India. The slogan of this campaign is Atithi Devoh Bhavah.

For a better growth the department divided different places in different sections like Medical Tourism, Spiritual Tourism, Spa Tourism, eco-tourism, Adventure Tourism, and Yoga Tourism.

Medical Tourism for Responsible Tourism

India has a growing medical tourism sector. With an increasing number of foreign patients flocking to India for treatment, our country has become an attractive destination for medical tourism. Things have now started looking bright for the tourism industry.

India continues to draw a large influx of medical tourists, primarily due to its world-class dental services. Furthermore, the country demonstrates exceptional expertise in psychiatry, cardiovascular procedures, bone marrow and liver transplants, and cataract surgeries. Consequently, its reputation as a leading hub for medical tourism continues to grow.

India is a cheap destination for medical tourism and medical outsourcing. Kerala is the best destination for naturopathy. North India, beyond Delhi, highlights cities like Chandigarh, Ludhiana, and Jalandhar as prominent centers for cardiovascular surgeries.

Spiritual Tourism for Responsible Tourism

Spa Tourism for Responsible Tourism

As a vital segment of wellness tourism, it primarily focuses on health enhancement through hydrotherapy and balneotherapy. Over time, it has also expanded to incorporate alternative medical therapies. Additionally, it engages all five senses to foster physical vitality, mental clarity, and emotional well-being.

Eco Tourism for Responsible Tourism

Ecotourism is catering for holiday makers in the natural environment without damaging it or disturbing habitats. Ecotourism promotes travel to fragile, pristine, and relatively undisturbed natural areas. Unlike mass tourism, it emphasizes low-impact, small-scale alternatives. As a result, it encourages conservation while offering visitors meaningful experiences in harmony with nature.

Adventure Tourism for Responsible Tourism

Adventure tourism is a type of tourism in which tourist do some adventures activities like as skydiving, hill climbing, and scuba diving. It is very popular among young age tourists that gains much of its excitement by allowing the tourists to step outside their comfort zone.

Yoga Tourism for Responsible Tourism

A yoga tourist practices yoga during travels for this purpose. The ancient Sanskrit word yoga means union, yoke, or to connect. A practitioner seeks to connect with self, others, and surroundings. Indian culture gave rise to yoga, and people have practiced it for millennia.. Since the 2000’s yoga has grown in Western cultures.
A study of yoga tourism identifies four motivations:

• Seeking spirituality,
• Enhancing mental wellbeing,
• Enhancing physical condition,
• And controlling negative emotions.

Yoga Tourism is a journey of self with transformative capacities on physical, psychological, spiritual and social awareness. Together they integrate mind, body, and spirit. Practitioners achieve this transformation by following the eight limbs of yoga, known as ashtanga (eight limbs).

Ashtanga yoga literally means “eight-limbed yoga,” as outlined by the sage Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras. According to Patanjali, the path of internal purification for revealing the Universal Self consists of the following 8 spiritual practices.

The eight limbs of yoga are

• Yama (moral restraints, moral codes),
• Niyama (observances, self-purification and study),
• Asana (yoga postures),
• Pranayama (breath control),
• Pratyahara (withdrawal of senses),
• Dharana (concentration),
• Dhyana (meditation),
• Samadhi (absorption).

Tourism in India provides a wonderful window to our so varied life, culture, historical places, wildlife sanctuaries, flora and fauna. Diversity, unity and assimilation have always been the hallmark of the eternal India and these make India the ultimate tourist destination.

India has introduced special trains like the Palace on Wheels and the Great Indian Rover. The Palace on Wheels takes tourists to popular destinations across Rajasthan, while the Great Indian Rover connects them to significant Buddhist sites across the country.

A new range of hotels known as Heritage hotels has been introduced to add to the attraction of tourism in India. This class includes hotels opened in palaces, havelies, castles, forts and residences built prior to 1950. As these traditional places represent and reflect the Indian culture of the past, they have been very popular among the tourists. The heritage scheme actively works to preserve cultural properties and landmarks, protecting them from decay and preventing their neglect or disuse.

With living standards rising rapidly, and income levels among the middle class steadily increasing, the potential for domestic tourism has expanded significantly in recent years. As a result, more individuals now explore local destinations, contributing to the sector’s dynamic growth and diversificatio. Middle class add more colour to tourism and travel. Keen desire in people to travel to different parts of the land and to have first-hand knowledge of them promotes Indian Tourism.

Sustainable Tourism

A tourism which encompasses eco-tourism and community-based tourism—has become the need of the hour in India. Consequently, social enterprises and offbeat travel companies are taking the lead in driving this movement. Furthermore, their innovative approaches are reshaping how travelers engage with nature and local communities, ensuring long-term benefits for both. These not only offer sustainable holidays in India and drive sustainable tourism projects in India, but also create meaningful travel opportunities that can elevate your “Incredible India” experience.
Sustainable tourism is the concept of visiting somewhere as a tourist and trying to make a positive impact on the environment, society, and economy. Tourism can involve primary transportation to the general location, local transportation, accommodations, entertainment, recreation, nourishment and shopping.

Sustainable tourism promotes minimal impact on the environment and local culture, while supporting future job creation for local communities.. The positive of sustainable tourism is to ensure that development is a positive experience for local people; tourism companies; and tourists themselves.

When it comes to sustainability, there are actually three “pillars” to consider: environmental, economic, and socio-cultural. Tourism has to be sustainable in all three areas to truly be considered “sustainable tourism.”

There are many forms of sustainable tourism: the ecological tourism (eco-tourism), the green tourism, the soft tourism, the rural tourism and Agro tourism, community tourism, equitable tourism, solidarity and responsible tourism etc.

Ecological Tourism

Ecotourists typically travel to destinations that highlight flora, fauna, and cultural heritage as main attractions. Ecotourism aims to show the impact of human activity on the environment and foster deeper respect for natural habitats.

Green Tourism

Green tourism refers to tourism that connects with the natural environment and cultural heritage of a region or practices sound environmental management. It supports sustainable tourism by respecting the needs of the environment and local communities.

Soft Tourism

The concept of soft tourism encompasses environmental and social compatibility, optimum wealth creation, and a “new culture of travel”. The term has become the buzzword for a change of values in tourism, which has been demanded and is already being implemented to some extent.

Agro Tourism

Agro tourism, as a growing commercial venture, strategically connects agricultural production and processing with tourism. Consequently, it invites visitors to farms, ranches, or other agricultural sites for educational and recreational experiences. In addition, it serves as a source of income by transforming rural spaces into vibrant destinations for learning and leisure..

Community Tourism

Community based tourism is tourism in which local residents (often rural, poor and economically marginalized) invite tourists to visit their communities with the provision of overnight accommodation. The residents earn income as land managers, entrepreneurs, service and produce providers, and employees.

Equitable Tourism

Equitable Tourism Options (EQUATIONS) is a research, campaign and advocacy NGO working on social, cultural, economic and environmental impacts of tourism on local communities in India. Their work is directed towards enabling non-exploitative, equitable and sustainable tourism in India. They function out of Bangalore, India and were founded in 1985.

Solidarity Tourism

Justice Tourism or Solidarity tourism is an ethic for travelling that holds as its central goals the creation of economic opportunities for the local community, positive cultural exchange between guest and host through one-on-one interaction, the protection of the environment, and political/historical education.

Responsible Tourism

It is a form of tourism that can be consumed in a more responsible way. It minimizes negative social, economic and environmental impacts. Generates greater economic benefits for local people and enhances the well-being of host communities.
It is very important for the tourism industry to promote responsible tourism and take actions accordingly in order to better develop the industry and preserve the culture and heritage of our country.

Preserving Culture

Preserving the Culture of the place is one of the most important things in the tourism sector.
Responsible tourism puts more emphasis on the responsibility of tourism industry through generating greater economic benefits for local people and enhancing the well-being of host communities, improving working conditions, involving local people in decisions that affect their lives and life chances, making positive impact in their life.

Regional Tourism in India

India is a vast country with high population density and huge number of cities, towns and villages. It becomes easier if we divide the country in few regions based on their geographical locations. This will not only simplify the task of gathering information but also will create a particular picture about the architecture, culture, food and topography of that region.

From tourism point of view there are mainly four regions:

• North India,
• South India,
• Central India
• And Himalayas.

All the four regions have their own specialties and there is a clear picture for each. North India is a region full of architectural monuments likes forts and palaces, traditional villages, Thar Desert and Ganges. Similarly when we think about South India it reminds us Massive temples of ancient period, spice plantations, Beaches and dense forests. Central India is known for its ancient caves, medieval forts and most importantly Tiger Safaris. During your travel to the Himalayas you can admire the natural beauty as well as plan various adventure activities on the tall mountains covered with snow.

Responsible Tourism in NORTH INDIA

Most of the popular travel destinations of India lies in Northern region of India. Some of these popular destinations are Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Varanasi, Khajuraho etc. Besides these there are many other small towns and villages which have a similar importance especially among the foreign tourists visiting North India. This is the perfect destinations for a real and memorable experience of rich and original culture particularly in the remote areas of Rajasthan.

Responsible Tourism in SOUTH INDIA

South India provides us a pleasant atmosphere to spend our perfect holiday destination with white sandy beaches, evergreen mountains, rivers, forests and backwaters. With natural treasures, another feature of the region that makes it even more attractive are Architectural wonders such as its huge temples, palaces, forts, churches, caves of Ajanta and Ellora etc.

Responsible Tourism in CENTRAL INDIA

Central India is just a land of vibrant culture. With some of the greatest temples and wildlife sanctuaries in India, this zone fascinates a huge selection for tourists. This region is known for its ethnic culture which includes the states of Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat for wildlife and historical monuments. Madhya Pradesh, also known as the heart of India, is rich with vivid flora and fauna and is among the few states in India known for the three world heritage sites.

Responsible Tourism in the HIMALAYAS

Himalayas is the ultimate adventure destinations which are over whelming and most exciting travels on India. The Himalaya word is the Sanskrit word which means “Abode of Snow”. Himalayas stretch over 2400 km long and wide from 250 to 400 km. The majestic beauty of the Himalayas will mesmerize us. Based on the heights of the mountains, the Himalayas are divided into three different regions namely The Greater Himalayas ( Himadris ), The middle Himalayas ( Lesser or Pir Panjal range ), The outer Himalayas (Shivaliks).

One Tamil song written by A. Maruthakasi reads…“What wealth is not in this land? Why we stretch our arms towards foreign land(s)” means “Enna Valam Illai Indha Thirunaattil, Yen Kaiyai Yendha Venum Velinaattil“

In the same way, why do we expect Foreign exchange through International Tourism? Instead if we concentrate on domestic tourism and through the revenue gained we achieve the status of Self-sufficient or self-reliant.

Divisional Tourism in India

Best way to attract local tourists is to promote Divisional tourism. I emphasis the coinage of the new term “Divisional Tourism”. What is Divisional tourism?

Here comes the answer. Four or Five neighborhood States in one region to be combined which formed a Division. In each Division a common federation for tourism is to be formed through which combo packs for tourists to be provided. The following 10 Divisions may be formed.

1. Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, Telangana
2. Goa, Maharashtra, Gujarat
3. Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan
4. Punjab, Haryana
5. Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh
6. The Seven Sister states namely Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh & their only Brother Sikkim
7. Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh
8. West Bengal, Odisha
9. Lakshadweep, Dadra & Nagar Haveli, Daman & Diu
10. Andaman & Nicobar Islands

The states in one Division cooperate and coordinate the tours in their Division.

tates like Haryana actively promote tourism through farm, rural, religious, cultural, and archaeological initiatives. Instead of working in isolation, states should collaborate regionally. Consequently, frequent conclaves among contiguous states can foster innovative strategies for promoting divisional tourism circuits. Together, they can identify and develop attractions such as artificial lakes, waterfalls, forests, and scenic landscapes. Moreover, rural tourism contributes to cleaner environments, drives socio-economic progress, and creates employment opportunities.

On the other hand, Indians must gradually move beyond their fascination with foreign tours and embrace the rich experiences of exploring their own country. Personally, I aspire to witness India inch by inch, soaking in its unmatched diversity. Even if Heaven were placed before me, I would humbly decline; instead, I would wholeheartedly choose my beloved motherland. Despite its multitude of diversities, prevailing inequalities, and political challenges, it remains my India—my pride, my soul. JAI HIND!

I always remember our poet Mahakavi Bharathi’s immortal words “parukkule nalla nadu engal Bharatha nadu” means “Good in world countries is our country the Bharath”.

The real India though – the India that inspires and humbles, the India that is artistic yet genuine, the India that is simultaneously incredible and heartbreaking – takes a little effort to find.

India is a book and who do not travel read only a page.
Be a responsible Traveler all time and find the true spirit of our INDIA!

On the negative side tourism it may damage environment. In order to accommodate large number of tourists, sprawling resorts are built. The indiscriminate construction destroys local architectural styles and ecological balance. Arrangements as desired by tourists are provided in order to satisfy them.

But proper environment-protection measures should also be taken to prevent degradation of natural resources and wealth of the country.

The Indian tourism industry has been hit by pollution. The effluents emitted by the Mathura Refinery has led to the color change of the Taj Mahal is Agra. The condition of many of our monuments is deteriorating due to the negligence of the authorities concerned.

The tourism infrastructure in India should be strengthened. Airports and railway stations should provide information to the tourists about the tourist destinations. Government owned hotels should be properly managed. The government should be taken to restore the ancient splendor of the monuments. Sincere efforts could help to further develop the Indian tourism industry.

Our embassies should supply to the people and governments of other countries all the important information regarding objects and places which can attract the tourists. The coming of the tourists to India and their stay here should be made easier, smoother and more comfortable as far as possible.

POST COVID SCENARIO in TOURISM

Travel, tourism and hospitality sector one of the largest employers in the country. A SECTOR which directly employs around 38 million people. The businesses will be now left with no alternative but to retrench people.

While existing efforts should continue, we must craft an obsolescence-proof strategy that leverages our strengths, has pan-India applicability, calls for low investments and training, and facilitates immediate job generation. Why not look at tourism more intensely?

UNESCO for Responsible Tourism

UNESCO has a list of 42 World Heritage sites in India out of which four of them are in Tamil Nadu. Generally, they are categorized as two groups and totally four sites are there. First three are collectively known as Great Living Chola Temples and remaining one is “Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram. And also Nilgiri Blue Mountain train is added in this list.

Tamil Nadu, besides housing countless temples, also features hill stations like Kodaikanal and Ooty, and beaches such as Marina and Mahabalipuram. These, along with Delhi and Dilwara, Khajuraho and Kaziranga, Ayurveda and yoga, and the Taj Mahal form a small part of a formidable list of world-class attractions in India.

While over five million Poles venture abroad, fewer than 50,000 choose India as their destination. Similarly, despite welcoming a million foreign tourists, India sees nearly 25 million of its own citizens travel overseas. Interestingly, many of these travelers have yet to explore significant parts of their own country. Consequently, this raises a pressing question: what underlies this imbalance, and what strategic steps should be taken to reverse it?

Competent and courteous staff at immigration centers and consulates, protection for tourists from touts, basic hygiene and personal safety at tourist locations, and a well-oiled information system to guide tourists are fundamental requirements. Sites to be maintained well and to be operated punctually as per displayed timings and dates.

Author
Mr. Priya Balu, Tamil Nadu