3rd July 2025 (12 Topics)
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Munnar as a Responsible Destination
Context
The Kerala Government has initiated a project to transform Munnar into a Responsible Tourism Destination by the end of this year. The goal is to develop the hill station as a net-zero carbon tourist location by adopting sustainable, gender-inclusive, and plastic-free tourism practices while protecting the region’s fragile ecosystem. ?50 lakh has been sanctioned for the initiative.
What is Responsible Tourism?
- Responsible Tourism is a tourism model that minimizes negative environmental, social, and economic impacts.
- It aims to:
- Generate greater economic benefits for local people,
- Enhance the well-being of host communities,
- Improve working conditions and access to the industry,
- Involve local people in decision-making,
- Conserve natural and cultural heritage.
Munnar’s Strategic Importance
- Munnar, located in Kerala’s Idukki district, is a prominent hill station in the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Biodiversity Hotspot.
- Receives approx. 12 lakh tourists annually (excluding day-trippers, actual footfall likely 4 times higher).
- The region is ecologically sensitive, with endemic flora and fauna, and faces challenges like waste generation, plastic use, and ecosystem degradation.
Key Sustainable Interventions Planned
- Net-Zero Carbon Tourism: Minimizing carbon footprint through low-impact travel, eco-friendly accommodations, and sustainable infrastructure.
- Plastic-Free Initiative: Elimination of single-use plastics; installation of signage and awareness campaigns.
- Village Life Experience Packages: Promoting rural and experiential tourism models.
- Stakeholder Training: Training programs for:
- Local guides, community leaders, drivers (auto/taxi), and tourism staff.
- Gender-Inclusive Tourism: Promoting women participation as hosts, entrepreneurs, and tourists to ensure equitable and safe tourism.
Responsible Tourism in Kerala – Background
- Kerala is a pioneer state in Responsible Tourism Mission (RTM).
- RTM launched in 2017, integrates tourism with local economic development and environmental sustainability.
- Focus areas include local sourcing, employment generation, waste management, and community participation.
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Gulf of Mannar: Geographical Overview
Gulf of Mannar Marine Biosphere Reserve
Ecological Richness
Coral Reef Areas in India (only four major regions):
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