Responsible Tourism Society (RTSOI) pushes for green initiatives in J&K

13 February 2025

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Srinagar, 13 Feb: The Responsible Tourism Society of India (RTSOI), represented by its J&K-Ladakh Convener, Peerzada Faiyaz Ahmed, participated in the J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s Pre-Budget Meeting to present key recommendations aimed at fostering sustainable tourism in the region. Recognizing the immense potential of tourism as a driver of economic growth and employment, RTSOI underscored the urgent need for responsible tourism practices to minimize environmental degradation and ensure long-term sustainability, and statement issued to Ziraat Times said.

Key Recommendations for Sustainable Tourism: Ban Single-Use Plastics

Advocate for the prohibition of manufacturing and usage of single-use plastics across commercial activities, ensuring vendors and suppliers adopt eco-friendly alternatives; Regulate the Unorganized Sector – Bring unregistered guest houses, food outlets, and transport operators under regulatory frameworks through inspections, certification, and awareness workshops; Conduct Sensitization Workshops – Allocate adequate funding for training programs to educate service providers at all levels on sustainable tourism practices; Implement a Responsible Traveler Campaign – Launch a continuous awareness campaign via print, electronic media, digital media and state media to promote responsible traveler behavior and environmental consciousness; Introduce ‘Responsible Citizen’ as a School Subject – Incorporate sustainability and environmental responsibility into school curricula to cultivate responsible attitudes among future generations; Conduct Carrying Capacity Studies – Undertake scientific studies to assess tourism load limits and prevent over-tourism while identifying new destinations for balanced regional development; Establish an Empowered Ecotourism Board – Advocate for the formation of an empowered board with RTSOI’s representation to oversee and implement sustainable tourism initiatives; Ban on Polythene & Provide Alternative Livelihoods – Enforce a strict ban on polythene while ensuring affected communities receive alternative employment opportunities in eco-friendly enterprises; Increased Budgetary Support for Eco-Tourism – Call for enhanced budgetary allocation to support the promotion and implementation of responsible tourism initiatives across J&K and Ladakh.

Peerzada Faiyaz , while addressing J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s Pre-Budget Meeting, emphasized that tourism is a vital contributor to the State Gross Domestic Product (SGDP) and a significant employment generator. Sustainable tourism practices not only protect natural and cultural heritage but also create stable and long-term livelihood opportunities for local communities.

In a one-on-one discussion, Peerzada Faiyaz conveyed to the Chief Minister that RTSOI President, Mr. Rakesh Mathur, firmly supports the implementation of these recommendations. “RTSOI is committed to promoting sustainable tourism and reducing its adverse effects on the environment. We believe that these measures will play a pivotal role in securing the future of tourism in J&K and Ladakh,” he said.

The Responsible Tourism Society of India remains dedicated to working alongside the government and stakeholders to make J&K and Ladakh a model for sustainable and responsible tourism in India.