Professional Documents
Culture Documents
FOREWORD
India with its diverse Culture, Festivals, host of World Heritage sites and Eco-friendly lifestyles can develop upon the same as a harbinger of peaceful
livelihood in 2017 and beyond. This paper highlights some of the existing capacities and opportunities w.r.t Indias Tourism sector apart from
commenting upon Global trends and best practices.
Considering the fact that the field of study is vast and the Travel & Tourism Industry a major revenue source for any nation (encompassing the length
and breadth of the Country ) in both its Organised and unorganised forms I have put collected a lot of existing data has from various sources to help
put matters in perspective more easily by means of Tables, Data, articles and more.
I have personally spent more than 4 years trying to better understand the nuances of this vast sea of daily Trade including but not limited to Hotels
and Resorts, Airlines, Trains, Ships & Cruise liners, Cabs, Cars, Shops, Boutiques, BnBs, Monuments, Palaces, Wildlife and Nature reserves,
Architectural marvels, Artisans, Craftsmen, Handicrafts and the list goes on and on. During this period I have had the good fortune of being
associated with some of the best names in the Industry from B2B tie-ups with The Top Travel Club Canada ( and Hotelsetc USA ) to representation
and liaison with Lidyday-Voyage in Croatia and Yaktrak in Manali to The Fort Ramgarh in Panchkula the journey so far has been enlightening and
enriching to say the least.
During the past 4 years I have come to realize that the enormity of the number of stakeholders involved in the Travel & Tourism Industry ( both
internal & external ) making it an increasingly complex web of Interwoven relationships drawing a uniform policy or code for which requires
humungous effort and allocations. Of course the same is an ongoing process which shall define its own course over the next 2 decades or so propelled
by none less than the Worlds leading Governments, Regulatory bodies, the Industry and the local populace. Such symbiotic involvement and
representation has been made possible thanks largely to the advent of Mobile and Web technologies.
Years back when my father was serving in the Indian Army and was deputed to Bhutan, I reveled in the natural beauty and culture of the region
whenever I visited the place from my Boarding school in Sherwood, Nainital. I speak of Bhutan because its leadership has shown great initiative in
maintaining the quality of its Tourism as also the extent to which it embodies Technology in its quest for growth ( I do remember receiving 3D /
embossed stamps from Bhutan way back towards 1977 ).
No doubt leadership makes a big difference in the way a Nation follows a growth chart wherein its people are not sacrificed for short term gains.
Today as we head towards greater integration of our economy with Global Trade, removing barriers to communication and selling our strengths to a
world that seeks instant gratification we as a people also have a responsibility to ourselves and our future generations: to protect and save the
Culture, Traditions and natural resources of our Country its age old and ancestral traditions, best practices and ways of life. We need to empower
the populace with new skills and ideas to prepare them for the next wave of emerging technologies and environmental change apart from offering
them a means of sustainable livelihood so as to create the lasting foundation for the development of the Tourism sector in India.
Note: Data posts have the relevant references listed against them for reference purposes. Some invaluable data and information for further reading
and reference tables/data are available in Annexures I, II and III
As Global warming, Climate change, rapid Industrialisation and the Internet make deeper inroads into our daily lives we as responsible World citizens
need to develop upon opportunities provided by the Hospitality & Tourism Industry ( the worlds largest Industry ) 1 to provide sustainable
development and livelihood options to the local populace - worldwide. The United Nations has commendably chosen to undertake part of the same
under the aegis of the UNWTO ( United Nations World Tourism Organisation ) declaring 2017 as the UN's International year of Sustainable Tourism for
Development. The International Year is seeking to explore and highlight tourisms role in the following five* key areas:
India with its multi-faceted and multi-dimensional ethnicities, geographic categories, gastronomic delights, holistic and pranic healing centres,
monuments and a variety of Events and Festivals all through the year has a lot to offer to the Business, Family and lone traveller yet with a
responsibility to the nation, the local polity and the visitors as a whole.
As more and more 5 star Hotels, Recreation centers, Roads, Highways and Buildings are constructed to cater to the demands ( present and future ) of
an increasingly knowledgeable polity, tourists and Businessmen alike, it has become imperative to pay closer attention to:
A global surge in tourism, driven by the growth of low-cost carriers and middle
class families across the world who are beginning to vacation abroad, has had
deep ramifications for the worlds most popular destinations. Some have tried to
manage tourism by limiting the ability of tourists to stay in cities or pushing less
popular areas as bona fide tourist destinations. The jury is still out on whether
these destinations will be able to effectively manage tourism, or will continue to
struggle in the face of mounting backlash from their citizens..SKIFT.
Tourism & Hospitality Sector (including Travel and Hospitality services such as hotels and restaurants) has been universally recognized as an agent of
development and an engine for socio-economic growth. According to WTTCs ( World Travel and Tourism Council ) India Benchmarking Report 2015,
every USD 1 million in Travel and Tourism spending in India generates USD 1.3 million in GDP. Tourism & Hospitality Sector, Achievements Report, Department
of Industrial Policy and Promotion ( DIPP )
During the period April 2000-March 2016, the hotel and tourism sector attracted around US$ 9.23 billion of FDI
.. Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP).
100% FDI is allowed under the automatic route in tourism and hospitality, ... www.makeinindia.com
Sustainable tourism products are products which operate Responsible travel to natural areas, which conserves
in harmony with local environment, community and the environment and improves the welfare of local
cultures, so that these become the permanent people. The International Ecotourism Society 1
beneficiaries. according to Agenda 21 for the Travel &
Tourism Industry in (Bien 2007)
[There is] overall consensus that [sustainable tourism] Ecotourism is ecologically sustainable tourism with a
integrates economic, socio-cultural and ecological well primary focus on experiencing natural areas that
being as well as futurity, equity and holism. fosters environmental and cultural understanding,
(Solimar 2007) appreciation and conservation. Ecotourism Australia 2
Sustainable tourism is tourism that seeks to minimize Ecotourism is sustainable tourism with a natural area
ecological and socio-cultural impacts while providing focus, which benefits the environment and
economic benefits to local communities and host communities visited, and fosters environmental and
countries. (Mohonk 2000) cultural understanding, appreciation and awareness.
(Mohonk 2000)
It is important to realize that all of the above need to be cohesively amalgamated into one synergistic plan of action passing on the fruits of its
dynamism to one and all. Also the advancements in web and mobile technologies need to integrate clear cut Sovereign policies and PPP / Corporate
vision at the planning stage itself.
SOME INSIGHTS INTO PREVALING INDUSTRY TRENDS - GLOBAL TRAVEL TRENDS 2017
In 2017, travellers will be more interested in the environmental, economic and social impact they have on the destinations they visit and are likely
to support companies that embody these values.
Expect the following travel behaviour in coming years:
Travelling closer to home to reduce carbon footprint
Choosing companies with a strong social focus
Growing interest in voluntourism programmes that leave a long-term positive impact
Homestays gaining more interest than traditional hotels or bed and Breakfasts
New emerging technologies, the rapid influx of Mobile dependence and GPS, sites like Tripadvisor, AirBNB, Google algorithms and VR all are
turning around existing Industry trends in a disruptive manner making it close to impossible for even MNCs, large Corporations and Consortiums to
keep abreast of the latest trends and wants of the consumer. Holidays and Travel today arent just about visiting a location and staying there for a
day or two with some local sightseeing and shopping todays travellers are more experiential and open to amalgamating diverse cultural and
behavioral differences on account of nationality travellers spend a lot of time on their smartphones and tablets learning about locations, the people
and also how they can gain some enriching insights into the lives of the local people before they embark on their journey. The same makes their
Holiday more fruitful and personalised apart from giving them an opportunity to live and interact with the local populace on a one-to-one level. Even
the Business traveller is using spare time available as an opportunity to spend some quality leisure time with Friends, Colleagues and Family giving rise
to the Bleisure segment.
New models of costing, intense competition, higher levels of consumer literacy & know-how apart from the trend for Angel Investing and
Fundraising in new startups are some of the reasons why Big Hotel chains, Travcos and Resorts are finding it extremely important to remodel their
conventional financial cost allocation models to be in sync with the latest Industry trends. The same requires not just a knowledge of local market
demographics, trends and patterns ( which was conventionally the case ) but also regular updates w.r.t ( and also in response to ) new and
emergent technologies and their impact via the Internet and Mobile web technologies. The same requires the training and orientation of Hotel,
Resort and Travco staff w.r.t desired technologies as well as an increased customer oriented approach to the new Millennial consumer. A consumer
who is definitely more aware w.r.t the need for deriving the best value for money for his or her expenses apart from an inclination towards
incorporating Environmentally Sustainable and Societally conscious Holiday & Travel practices.
Reference Table : Some Important Facts About India & World Tourism, 2015
(I) India
http://tourism.gov.in
HIGH VALUE, LOW VOLUME BHUTAN ..Bhutans policy towards tourism is a cautious one and works on the concept of high-value, low volume
tourism that keeps a control on the quality and quantity of tourists coming into the country. For instance, in 2010, the country saw 41,000 tourists,
who brought in $90 million. http://www.forbesindia.com
MOROCCO: DOWN THE ROAD OF TRADITIONAL CRAFTS ..Morocco has a vibrant craft industry, yet artisans had insufficient opportunity for direct
sales. Solimar collaborated with Aid to Artisans and the Moroccan Ministry of Crafts to facilitate direct linkages between artisans and tourists in
Marrakech and Fez. This was achieved through establishing new or updating existing artisan and cultural heritage routes, and furnishing them with
engaging creating marketing collateral. The team involved as many as 6,603 sale points and was successful in increasing artisan revenue. As a result of
this project, crafts and tourism in the area are now more linked than ever before. solimarinternational.com
GO BLUE CENTRAL AMERICA: BOCAS DEL TORO, PANAMA AND ROATN, HONDURAS
The regions economy is centered around tourism and fishing, and tourism is key to local livelihoods; however, the growth of tourism has also brought
negative environmental impacts, especially in the fragile costal and marine ecosystems of the region. In partnership with USAID and the Inter-American
Development Bank, . the challenge is to enhance the regions tourism development in a sustainable manner that incorporates the protection and
preservation of the natural resources and cultural attractions.
The Solution
The Geotourism Program for Go Blue Central America is helping regional communities to improve their market position within the tourism sphere by
providing potential visitors with local knowledge of the regions unique place-based tourism attractions, sites and businesses, and the abundance of
authentic experiences offered. The projects core deliverable, is a National Geographic co-branded website has motivated people to visit the region
and provide a resource for travel that will enhance the benefits from tourism for local people.
The Go Blue project has mobilized public action in the region to be part of an interactive platform to tell the stories of their places through the website,
select the key messages, attractions, activities, products and experiences that tell the unique stories of the regions communities and natural wonders.
These are now highlighted, interpreted and marketed through the Geotourism website. The Geotourism website not only drives increased visitation to
the region, but also attracts the type of visitors most likely to enjoy the cultural and natural experiences of the area and to care about the people and
place they are visiting. . solimarinternational.com
REAL PEOPLE REAL EXPERIENCES : TOURIST GUIDES & THE POWER TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Value chain
phases
origin to in
destination destination
ECOTOURISM IN INDIA
India is known for its large ecosystems including the Himalayas and the Western Ghats. India has 661 protected areas with 100 national parks, 514
wildlife sanctuaries, 43 conservation reserves and four community reserves in different geographic zones, extending to nearly ve per cent of the
geographical area of the country (MoEF 2011). Capitalising on these resources, ecotourism operations in India have substantially increased community
participation, involvement of indigenous groups, forest dwelling communities and women, local level resource sharing with locally designed
frameworks, and the use of indigenous technologies. The income generated is used to ensure quality tourism services as well as to improve the living
standards of destination communities. Based on Ecotourism Policy and Guidelines developed by the Indian Ministry of Tourism in 1998, the Ministry of
Environment and Forest in June 2011, called on state governments to frame ecotourism policies to facilitate tourism programmes in protected areas of
the country. In addition, the Indian Governments National 12th Five Year Plan (2012-17) targets to increase the net benet of tourism activities for the
poor, emphasising also that the revenue generated from tourism operations should be utilised for protected area management (India Tourism 2011).
Way forward:
Adherence to sustainability standards in the operations of ecotourism in India can be initiated in protected areas, rural and village settings, forest areas
and conservation areas of the country. Various innovative forms of ecotourism activities like rural ecotourism, farm and wetland tourism, mangrove
tourism, coastal tourism, plantation tourism, horticulture activities, minor forest produce tourism, wilderness camps, eco-parks, caves exploration,
bamboo raft cruise, and water based activities like regulated angling can be promoted. In this context, the Global Environment Facility (GEF) has
supported Indias eco-development programme, where ecotourism has been identied as a means of livelihood for tribal and forest dwelling
communities.
Source: Asian Examples of sustainable tourism initiatives http://www.academia.edu
http://himalayanrocketstove.com
Banni Khera Farm, Rohtak: A Sustainable & Community Based Rural Tourism Project
Banni Khera Farm is a Sustainable & Community Based (CBT) Rural Tourism Project started in collaboration with Haryana Tourism (Ministry of Tourism-
India) under the Farm Tourism Scheme
How are the locals involved?
Most of the services in the project are provided by the villagers, including yoga & meditation classes, workshops on pottery-painting-
cooking, conducting activities such as - horse riding, bullock cart ride, tractor ride, boating & folk dance show etc. At present there are more
than 25 local families/individuals involved in the project & they are getting direct economic benefits from the project.
ISKCON Govardhan Eco Village (GEV) won the prestigious United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) Award, leading over 55 countries in
the category of Innovation in Non-Governmental Organisations.
Spread over 70 acres in Wada near Mumbai, Govardhan Eco Village is the first Indian NGO to win a UNWTO Award. It was recognised for its ground-
breaking work in using eco-tourism to reduce poverty and provide sustainable livelihoods in one of the most backward tribal regions of India.
Here you may explore a blend of traditional wisdom and modern practicality, from innovative award-winning eco-solutions to education in spiritual
living called Symbiotic Development.
Some Ecofriendly initiatives undertaken include
Organic Farming, Animal Care, Green Buildings, Water Conservation, Alternative Energy, Soil Biotechnology, Waste Management, Rural Empowerment
, Rural Education, Global Outreach, Art & Handicrafts, Plant Nursery, Research & Training. http://mediaindia.eu http://www.ecovillage.org.in/
Its found that International Tourists tend to stay longer in India ( 27 days ) much higher as against the International average a clear
testament of the diversity and multitude of offers & experiences the country can offer its visitors. Add to this the fact that Indias share of
International tourist arrivals is a mere 0.4% of the World Trade and we can foresee an opportunity to develop upon the same.
Thirteen theme tourist circuits, viz North-East India Circuit, Buddhist Circuit, Himalayan Circuit, Coastal Circuit, Krishna Circuit, Desert Circuit, Tribal
Circuit, Eco Circuit, Wildlife Circuit, Rural Circuit, Spiritual Circuit, Ramayana Circuit and Heritage Circuit (launched in the month of December 2015)
have been identified for development under this Scheme.
Under Swadesh Darshan scheme that aims to develop world class infrastructure to promote cultural and heritage value of the country and
enhance the tourist attractiveness, 27 projects for Rs. 2261.50 crore have been sanctioned for 21 States and Union Territories since its launch in
January 2015. They include Eco Tourism Circuit in the states of Uttarkhand, Telangana and Kerala, Tribal Circuit in Nagaland, Chattisgarh and
Telangana, Coastal Circuit in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Pudicherry, West Bengal, Maharashtra and Goa, Buddhist Circuit in Bihar and Madhya
Pradesh, Himalayan Circuit in Jammu and Kashmir, Desert Circuit in Rajasthan, Wild Life Circuit in Madhya Pradesh & Assam and North East India
Circuit in Arunachal, Sikkim, Manipur, Mizoram, Meghalaya and Tripura under SwadeshDarshan.16A Project for Integrated Development of Eco-
Tourism, Adventure Sports, and Associated Tourism related Infrastructure for Development of Tehri Lake and surroundings as New Destination-
District Tehrihas been sanctioned for an amount of Rs.80.37 crores under the Swadesh Darshan scheme.
PRASAD The National Mission for Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive (PRASAD) scheme, was launched by Ministry of
Tourism on March 9, 2015 for the development and beautification of pilgrimage sites to tap the growth of domestic tourists driven by spiritual/
religious sentiments. The scheme seeks to augment tourism infrastructure at places of pilgrimage to provide better facilities to pilgrims/tourists
and enhance their experience.
In the first phase, 13 cities, viz, Amritsar, Kedarnath, Ajmer, Mathura, Varanasi, Gaya, Puri, Dwarka, Amravati, Kanchipuram, Vellankanni, Guwahati
and Patna have been identified for infrastructure development under PRASAD.
During 2014-16, Ministry of Tourism has sanctioned 11 projects for Rs.284.53 crores under PRASAD. 11 projects, in Amravati, Kamakhya Temple,
Patna Sahib, Patna, Vishnupad Gaya, Shri Jagannath Puri, Amritsar, Ajmer-Pushkar, Varanasi, Mathura-Vrindavan, and Kedarnath Dham,
Uttarakhand have been sanctioned under this scheme. These include 2 Projects worth Rs.36.96 crores approved for Varanasi River Cruise and
Dwarka.. DIPP
A two pronged strategy to counter safety & security threats and negative publicity must be implemented by both Government of India and Ministry of
Tourism.. WTTC
The same holds true if we wish to reinforce the Incredible India Project and also uphold the age old concepts of Atithi Devo Bhava ( A guest is akin
to God ) as propogated by Indian Culture & Tradition.
As suggested by the WTTC the same can be implemented by:
- Sensitizing the community and stakeholders (State Governments, Local Bodies, Law & Order apparatus) in India especially important tourist
destinations to pay prime importance to safety and security of travellers, especially women. Setting up of Tourist Security Force with a
Public Private Partnership.
- Involving the Embassies and Foreign Missions of different countries located in India on the various steps being taken to ensure safety of
travellers, especially women.
- Evolving a strategy for the Foreign offices of Ministry of Tourism to counter the negative publicity emerging out of any crisis situation.
- Facilitate safety & security, solid waste management, water & sanitation, cleanliness & hygiene, emergency medical services, transport
infrastructure, guiding services and leisure activities at identified locations.
At the same time care should be taken to avoid Increased conicts with local communities arising from failure to incorporate biodiversity concerns
into destination planning, investment and benet sharing; and Threats to cultural integrity arising from unplanned (no prior consent or participation)
and unmanaged tourism. Asian Examples of sustainable tourism initiatives (http://www.academia.edu )
INDIA-TOURISM : Analysis ref World Economic Forum Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Index 2013**
Framework Rank/144 Score (1-7)
Travel & Tourism regulatory framework** 110 3.92
India ranks well for its natural and cultural resources, with many World Heritage sites, rich fauna, fairs - exhibitions and strong creative industries. India
also has quite good air transport (ranked 39th), particularly given the country's stage of development, and reasonable ground transport infrastructure
(ranked 42nd), although the quality of roads (85th) and of ports (79th) require further improvement. In addition, India remains a relatively price
competitive destination (20th), even in the regional context. WTTC
** Over the years, the role of the Government in tourism development has been redefined from that of a regulator to that of a catalyst. While
the government is showing a renewed focus on the travel industry, there are still some loopholes that need to be addressed. One, infrastructure
definitely needs a lot of attention. Two, the bandwidth needs to be streamlined in order for us to effortlessly communicate with the people.
Himanshu Verma, CTO, Yatra.com source: http://www.itroadmap.in
In order to successfully develop upon and implement an integrated & sustainable Tourism plan the following parameters need to be incorporated
symbiotically into the Project plan.
The above can be inculcated into the overall financial plan as per Budgetary allocations based upon:
BASIC INFRASTRUCTURE PUBLICITY / MARKETING HUMAN RESOURCE / RESEARCH
Up-gradation of Infrastructure* Signage & Hoardings Documentation & Research of Cultural Heritage
Up-gradation, Construction of roads up to Publicity, Literature etc. Capacity Building, Staff Training
the tourists destinations / infrastructure Computerisation & Information
Up-gradation / maintenance of Vehicles Technology
New vehicles Jeeps, Mini buses & Information Counters
maintenance Programmes, Activities
Landscape & Environment Design
TOURISM INFRASTRUCTURE PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT
Cultural Centres in Metro cities Urban Tourism
New Wayside Toilets / Amenities International Coll. Projects
New Tourist Lodges Tourism Festivals 2 nos
New Large Projects
Tourism Circuits
Unforeseen. Contingencies, Inflation, Administrative Expenses, Consultancy Fees
http://indiainbusiness.nic.in
* Note: Most of the above parameters require not just participation of the Government and regulatory bodies at the highest level to draw out a
Sustainable Development plan, but also the careful scrutinisation of best practices and successful projects implemented globally to save on limited
resources and development time.
Eg. Renewable Energy Sources as a source for long term development
Germany has achieved in less than 10 years - over 20GW of solar electricity per hour (this is the equivalent of about 20 nuclear plants) with far less
sunshine than India. http://gaiadiscovery.squarespace.com/latest-people/tag/cii
Examples like the above can be used like guidemarks to offer avenues for long term sustainable growth. The same would involve but not be limited
to Technology Transfer and In-house development on a Corporate / PPP front but also Governmental regulatory frameworks encouraging the
development of Renewable Energy sources not just for development but as a means of survival in the long term.
Further by 2020, the hospitality sector in India will need 180,000 additional rooms, $25.5 billion for constructing these rooms and about 211,000
people to operate them. Lack of trained and quality manpower is the next key challenge for the industry. While there is a huge scope of employment,
necessary skilling of the workforce at all levels is lacking.. the Cabinet Committee on Infrastructure, Government of India has approved Three-star
or higher category classified hotels located outside cities with population greater than one million to be included in the Harmonized list of
Infrastructure sub-sectors. This will facilitate a synchronized approach among various agencies providing support to hotel infrastructure and drive its
development in the best possible mannerf.
We need to encourage inclusive development at all levels so as to encourage a change in mindset for overall good. Endeavours like the fruitful pursuit
of a Community based Tourism ( CBT ) project by Banni Khera Farmstay in Rohtak, GEV in Mumbai etc need to be encouraged and acknowledged as
also the Himalayan Rocket Stove project initiated by an Australian Travco# in India to save a million trees. Also, offering the populace the benefits of
technology shall greatly enhance the marketability of their services as also their long term sustenance.
The same along with a well-established policy Framework by the Government of India shall go a long way in ensuring that India can reap the benefits of
its Travel, Hospitality and Tourism markets in sync with Globally established benchmarks and best practices amalgamating the collusive participation of
visitors from abroad as well as the polity of the nation.
Note: Despite the growing pace of changes worldwide and emergence of disruptive technologies, India needs to devise an action-plan which adheres
to the Macroeconomic conditions of the Country and not just International standards as the parity gap in Income and Living standards is still
considerable when compared to a Host of advanced Countries. At the same time much needed clearances in projects should be given priority including
Land allocation so as to not drive away FDI and potential investors.
Eg. To adopt a Euro emission standard for example and hope to bridge the gap in emissions without improving the quality of the Road network would
be a job half done - rather than collusive development. For the same India needs to develop upon a Holistic perspective for steady and sustainable
growth while developing upon its Infrastructure to empower its people to undertake tasks with more efficiency than before.
#
Travel Company
ANNEXURE I
a) Travel & Tourism's total contribution to the global economy rose to 9.5% of global GDP (US $7 trillion), not only outpacing the wider economy,
but also growing faster than other significant sectors such as financial and business services, transport and manufacturing. In total, nearly 266
million jobs were supported by Travel & Tourism in 2013; source: http://www.wttcii.org/pdf/India_Tourism_Plan.pdf
b) CATEGORIES OF TRAVELLERS INDIA
Business Travel - as India's economy promises robust growth-, domestic Business travel will be a growing market.
Honeymooners - 2nd biggest category; comprising tourists who want to have a memorable experience of the trip/destination and are less price-
conscious.
Families on vacation, visiting friends & relatives is the 3rd largest category; cost effective Rejuvenation and relaxation at preferred off-season
destinations in any part of India depending on family size. Pilgrims - the 4th largest category; travelling to places of religious importance such as
Varanasi, Madurai, Tirupati, Shirdi, Vaishnodevi, Amarnath, Badrinath, Puri, Dwarika, Ajmer, Pushkar, Amritsar, etc.
Students, working executives - the 5th category; usually have a preference for travelling over weekends as well as to destinations requiring
overnight travel by road or train.
Medical Tourism - A rapidly emerging category for both Indian Citizens and Foreign Nationals. Using US costs across A variety of specialties and
procedures as a benchmark, Medical treatment in India provides an average savings of 65-90%.... WTTC
e) Indian hotel careers are safe: HVS 2021
f) Accounting for seven percent of worldwide exports, one in eleven jobs and 10 % of the worlds GDP, the tourism sector if well managed can
foster inclusive economic growth, social inclusiveness and the protection of cultural and natural assets. http://mediaindia.eu
g) Ref: 20 years perspective plan for the sustainable development of tourism in the state of mizoram
Note: An attempt has been made to collate available information while mentioning the relevant sources for further reading and reference purposes.
Any editions / deletions or changes to the same are not under the scope of this document and may be followed upon with the relevant sources.
Other relevant information, cliparts & images: Google
ANNEXURE II
NEW INITIATIVES IN THE TWELFTH PLAN , GoI INCLUDE: (2012-17)
- Recasting the Scheme of Common Effluent Treatment Plant (CETPs)
- Enhancement of Sewage Treatment Capacity
- National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Eco Systems (NPCA)
- National Environmental Monitoring Programme
- National Forestry Information System
- Invasive Species Management
- Coastal and Marine Conservation
- Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Biodiversity
- Environmental Performance Index
- Rangeland and Silvi Pasture Development Scheme
- Satellite-based Forest Resource Assessment
- Green India Mission.
The Twelfth Plan has identified 13 Monitorable Socio-Economic targets for this Ministry, which has been taken up for regular monitoring of progress
made by the Ministry. These targets are as follows:
Environment and Climate Change
Assess and remediate 12 identified contaminated sites (hazardous chemicals and wastes) with potential for ground water contamination by 2017.
Clean 80 per cent of critically polluted stretches in rivers by 2017 and 100 per cent by 2020.
States to meet National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) in urban areas by 2017.
To reduce emission intensity of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in line with the target of 20 to 25 per cent reduction over 2005 levels by 2020.
Forests and Livelihood
Greening 5 million ha under GIM including 1.5 m.ha. of degraded lands, afforestation and eco-restoration of 0.9 m.ha. of ecologically sensitive areas.
Technology-based monitoring of forest cover, biodiversity and growing stock including change-monitoring on periodical basis through dedicated
satellite by 2017 and establishment of open web-based National Forestry & Environmental Information system for research and public accessibility by
2015.
Engagement of Village Green Guards/ Community Foresters for every Joint Forest Management (JFM) village by 2016.
Establish forestry seed bank in forest circles and Model Nursery in every district with information on public portal by 2014.
Wildlife, Ecotourism and Animal Welfare
Twenty per cent of veterinary professionals in the country will be trained in treating wildlife.
Integrated Ecotourism District Plans covering 10 per cent of all potential Protected Areas (PAs) by 2017.
Promoting participation of private sector, civil societies, NGOs and philanthropists in animal welfare.
Ecosystem and Biodiversity
Restore 0.1 mha. of wetlands/ inland lakes/ water bodies by 2017.
Mapping and preparation of biodiversity management plans for deserts (both cold and arid), coastal areas, important coral zones, wetlands,
mangroves and so on to be completed by 2017.
Besides, 14 Goals have also been identified in the Plan Document, which would receive focus and special attention, inter alia, through the Annual Plans
of the Ministry. These 14 Goals are set out below:
Environment
Epidemiological studies to assess improvement in health status due to better management of environment and ecology.
Promotion and adoption of cleaner technology, strengthening and initiation of reforms in regulations, policy making and enforcement institutions for
environmental governance.
Move towards cumulative and strategic Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).
Ensure ecological flows in all rivers by regulating abstractions so as to allow conservation of riverine ecosystems through developing a legal framework
and management strategy for conservation of river basins.
Promotion of recycling and reuse of treated sewage in urban projects such as sanitation, landscaping, central air conditioning and so on.
Forests and Livelihood
Improve forest productivity, production and sustainable management of biodiversity (equity in access to benefit sharing with local people).
Restore and intensify forest-rangelands/ grazing-land management and establish community grazing land around forest fringe villages.
Build capacity of Village Forest Committees/ Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) for management of forest resources including ecotourism.
Revive seed orchards and silviculture plots for various forest types of the country, as well as for enlisted species under Minor Forest Produce (MFP)/
Non Timber Forest Produce (NTFP), including genetic improvement, and establishment, of clonal orchards.
Wildlife, Ecotourism and Animal Welfare
Reducing and managing humanwildlife conflict.
Commercialisation of permissible marine products rich in poly unsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), vitamins and so on.
Promotion of ecotourism and participatory eco-development support livelihood of local population.
Ecosystem and Biodiversity
Develop national targets and indicators related to biodiversity and support actions to strengthen implementation of Biological Diversity Act, 2002 and
ensure bio-safety for economic and social development of local communities.
Assess coastal biodiversity resources, ensure sustainable management, restoration of mangroves, coral reefs and wetlands and support livelihood.
http://www.moef.nic.in
ANNEXURE III
- Certifications & Standards
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM |RESOURCES
Tourism Accreditation & Certification
Certification is popular subject in tourism and sustainability. Some in the industry say it doesnt address the critical mass while others say it is the only
way to stop greenwashing. In late 2008, the global partnership for sustainable tourism criteria was formed. In 2009, a global body was formed
the GSTC (Global Sustainable Tourism Council )
Certification can be described as the process of assuring industry and consumers that the assessed company has met a set of minimum standards.The
purpose of certification has been to achieve voluntary standards which meet or exceed baseline standards or legislation
(Source: Dodds & Joppe, 2005)..
Certification in tourism has always been a tumultuous affair and there is continuous debate especially as less than 1% of tourism industry suppliers are
certified. Some certification schemes which are well known in the tourism industry include:
International organisations & bodies of interest : Sustainable Tourism, Ecotourism, Social Responsibility
Rainforest Alliance Membership-based World Business Various initiatives and WBCSD and The Greenhouse Gas
organization established to Council for Tools Membership-based World Protocol
set social and Sustainable organization oriented Resources Freely available accounting
environmental standards Development mainly to large companies. Institute and reporting standard for
and issue certification to (WBCSD) Annual membership fee. It (WRI) companies to report on
producers in forestry, has developed numerous emissions of the six
agriculture and tourism. initiatives and tools that greenhouse gases covered
Provides training and other are publicly available, by the Kyoto Protocol of the
technical assistance in including: UN Framework Convention
industries covered by their The Global Water Tool on Climate Change.
certification activities. Improving Stakeholder Provides various tools to
www.rainforest- Engagement: Measuring assist companies in
alliance.org Impact calculating their emissions.
Organizational www.ghgprotocol.org
Governance: Issue
Management Tool
Sustainable
Development: A Learning
Tool
Numerous other
guidance documents,
initiatives and tools on
specific social and
environmental issues.
www.wbcsd.org
Forest Stewardship Fee-based membership Programme for the PEFC is an umbrella Coalition of Code of Conduct for the
Council (FSC) group open to individuals Endorsement of organization for mutual tourismrelated Protection of Children
and organizations. Forest recognition of certification organizations from Sexual Exploitation
Members assist in Certification schemes on sustainable in Travel and Tourism
governance and policy schemes management of Voluntary code of conduct
development. FSC is a (PEFC) forests. National that commits organizations
certification system that organizations provide to implement six criteria
provides international governance and aimed at protecting children
standard-setting, recognition of member from sexual exploitation in
trademark assurance and groups. the travel and tourism
accreditation services to http://www.pefc.org sector. Provides
companies, organizations, a free training kit on
and communities implementing these criteria.
interested in responsible ECPAT USA provides the
forestry. Secretariat. www.ecpat.net
http://www.fsc.org/ www.thecode.org
**
Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria (Note: Excerpts refer to main document for full table )
A.1 Sustainability management system
A.2 Legislation and regulations
Sustainable Management
D.2.2 Wastewater
D.2.3 Solid waste management plan
D.2.4 Use of harmful substances
D.2.5 Business implements practices
Environmental
TAGS
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#ecotourism
#climate change
#india 2020
#hotel
#resort
#tourism
#UNWTO
#WTTC
#overtourism
#SKIFT
#GSTC
# travel
# holiday
All Travel & Tour Companies, Hotels, Resorts, NGOs and related bodies interested in promoting activities related to Sustainable Tourism may contact
me personally at: harshahuja@ahujabusinessservices.com
Contact Us:
Harsh Ahuja
Ahuja Business Services
A 2/53 Azad Apartments, Sri Aurobindo Marg
New Delhi - 16
www.ahujabusinessservices.com
Mobile: 8527478057 / 8178006695
Email : harshsahuja@ahujabusinessservices.com
Discover your dreams! India Tourism Development & Sustainable Growth - 2020
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