The Ministry of Tourism is spearheading initiatives to promote sustainable and responsible tourism across India, focusing on ecotourism and environmental conservation. With the introduction of the Travel for LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) program, the government aims to encourage both tourists and the industry to adopt eco-friendly practices. National strategies for ecotourism and sustainable tourism are central to this effort, reflecting the global trend towards more environmentally conscious travel.

The global ecotourism market, valued at USD 172.4 billion in 2022, is projected to reach USD 374.2 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 13.9%. Rising awareness about climate change has prompted 83% of global travelers to prioritise sustainable travel by early 2024. Recognising this shift, the Ministry of Tourism has introduced the revamped Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme, emphasising integrated and eco-friendly tourism development in collaboration with States, Union Territories, and local governments.

One of the key components of the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme is the “Challenge Based Destination Development” sub-scheme. This initiative focuses on transforming tourism destinations into sustainable hubs while enhancing the overall visitor experience. Another notable program under the Swadesh Darshan umbrella is the Eco Circuit, aimed at developing tourism infrastructure in environmentally sensitive regions to foster responsible travel.

Union Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat shared these developments in the Lok Sabha, highlighting the Ministry’s financial support for States and Union Territories. These efforts underline India’s commitment to sustainable tourism, aligning with global trends and addressing critical environmental challenges such as climate change.