Tourism industry prospects hinge on responsible tourism

The industry can remain sustainable in long-term only if it conserves the key components of responsible tourism

The international conference on 'Responsible Tourism', being held at Kumarakam, near Kottayam opined the tourism industry can remain sustainable in the long-term only if it conserves the unique social, economic, cultural and environmental needs of individual destinations, the key components of responsible tourism.

Union minister of State for Tourism (Independent charge) K Chiranjeevi, in his message, said while India today can boast an unparalleled range of destinations and products, much needs to be done in developing these in a responsible manner.

"Our concerns today include overreaching carrying capacity, the unhygienic conditions of tourism destinations, lack of proper coordination in waste management practices,  lack of concern for nature and environment and lack of commitment to preserve our culture and heritage," the minister said.  

He lauded Kerala government's efforts to develop tourism in a responsible manner and said his ministry would support such efforts. The protection of Silent Valley reserve, development of the Muziris project, and improvements made in backwater tourism are some of the examples Kerala can be proud of.

Similar initiatives in Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu have demonstrated to the world the positive effects of sustainable tourism development.

Kerala Tourism minister A P Anil Kumar said, "the target now is to make Kumarakom a zero-waste destination. Serious efforts are being carried out in effective waste management, creating awareness across communities and their participation in achieving the objectives."