(GIST OF KURUKSHETRA) Rural India as a hub of Ecotourism

(NOVEMBER-2025)

Rural India as a hub of Ecotourism

Introduction:

Ecotourism emerged as the fastest-growing segments of India’s tourism industry, offering a model that links economic growth with environmental sustainability and social inclusivity. Defined by the International Ecotourism Society as “responsible travel to natural are as that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of local people, and involves interpretation and education,” ecotourism resonates strongly in the Indian context, given the country’s rich biodiversity, cultural heritage, and rural landscapes. In recent years, India has witnessed a transformation in how tourism is perceived and practiced.

Policy Landscape and Government Initiatives:

The rise of ecotourism in India has been shaped by deliberate policy interventions and institutional support. The National Strategy for Ecotourism (2022) provides a comprehensive framework that aligns the Ministry of Tourism’s development agenda with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change’s (MoEFCC) conservation goals.
It focuses on promoting responsible tourism in ecologically sensitive areas, setting standards for eco-certification, and encouraging community participation.
Swadesh Darshan Scheme has been particularly influential. Since its inception in 2014-15, the Ministry of Tourism has sanctioned crore for 76 tourism infrastructure projects, of which 75 were physically completed by 2024.
The PRASHAD scheme (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive) has also contributed indirectly to ecotourism, with across 48 projects, some overlapping with eco-spiritual tourism destinations. Other initiatives, such as the Dekho Apna Desh People’s Choice campaign and the Paryatan Mitra/ Didi program, emphasise responsible and inclusive tourism, particularly involving women and youth in rural areas.

Rural India: Growth and Market Dynamics in Ecotourism

India’s ecotourism sector is witnessing rapid expansion, offering substantial opportunities for rural transformation.
In 2024, the market was valued at USD 19.8 billion and is projected to rise to USD 50.4 billion by 2033, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.8 per cent (IMARC Group, 2024).
The broader tourism sector contributed about 5 per cent to the national GDP in 2024, underscoring its role as a major economic driver. The domestic tourism continues to dominate this landscape, with 2,509 million domestic tourist visits recorded in 2023, reflecting strong internal demand for rural and nature-based experiences.

Conclusion:

Strengthening eco-certification systems, managing visitor flow, and promoting lesser- known destinations can ensure long-term sustainability. Harnessing this untapped potential can transform rural India into a global exemplar of inclusive, responsible, and regenerative tourism— advancing the nation’s journey toward sustainable development and green economic resilience.