India Highlights Importance of Eco-Tourism for Sustainable Growth, Says Karnatak University Vice-Chancellor

At a time when the global tourism industry is undergoing a transformative shift, India continues to underscore the significance of eco-tourism as a driving force for sustainable development. During the World Tourism Day celebrations held in Dharwad, Karnatak University Vice-Chancellor A.M. Khan emphasized the necessity of aligning tourism growth with environmental preservation. His address, delivered at a programme organized by the Department of Tourism Studies and Karnataka Arts College, shed light on the growing need to nurture eco-conscious travel practices that protect natural heritage while promoting local livelihoods. The event brought together educators, environmentalists, and students to discuss how professional education, environmental awareness, and strategic collaborations could redefine India’s tourism landscape. With voices like Professor Khan and Shreeji Kurup from the Centre for Environment Education, Ahmedabad, echoing the message of sustainability, the session reaffirmed India’s commitment to harmonizing tourism with nature through inclusive and responsible initiatives.

Eco-Tourism as a Pathway to Sustainability

During the inauguration of the World Tourism Day event at the Bhuvana Vijaya auditorium, the emphasis was placed on building a future where tourism functions in harmony with the environment. Professor A.M. Khan stated that focusing on eco-tourism was not merely an option but an essential step toward achieving sustainable growth in the travel and tourism sector.

He highlighted that India, with its vast ecological diversity—from beaches and forests to mountains and deserts—possesses immense potential for eco-tourism ventures that can empower local communities and support conservation goals. The Vice-Chancellor urged the adoption of projects and initiatives that contribute to the preservation of natural and cultural heritage while promoting responsible travel behavior.

According to Professor Khan, the pursuit of eco-friendly tourism can transform India’s tourism economy by encouraging visitors to experience destinations respectfully and sustainably. By integrating sustainability principles into the sector, both the environment and the economy can thrive in balance.

Role of Education in Shaping the Future of Tourism

Professor Khan also stressed the growing importance of professional education in tourism. He explained that enrolling in specialized tourism studies could offer young individuals a promising career path. With the tourism industry expanding rapidly, the need for trained professionals who can manage destinations, develop eco-tourism projects, and engage in responsible planning has become more vital than ever.

He added that universities and colleges play a pivotal role in equipping students with the right knowledge and skills. By nurturing talent through updated curricula and industry exposure, educational institutions can prepare the next generation to meet the demands of a dynamic tourism sector that prioritizes sustainability.

The Vice-Chancellor encouraged students to cultivate professional competencies that align with the country’s vision of responsible tourism. He further noted that students who pursue tourism studies can contribute significantly to India’s socio-economic growth while safeguarding its natural wealth.

Promoting Sustainable Transformation through Collaboration

The highlight of the event was the address by Shreeji Kurup, Director of the Centre for Environment Education (CEE) in Ahmedabad. His talk, themed Tourism for a Sustainable Transformation, underlined the necessity of placing eco-tourism at the heart of developmental strategies.

Kurup pointed out that India’s coastal and marine ecosystems hold the key to long-term tourism success. He emphasized that the enhancement of India’s beaches to meet international standards could attract global travelers while simultaneously promoting environmental responsibility. Efforts to develop eco-sensitive tourist destinations can help balance economic gains with ecological preservation.

He also stressed that social and environmental education should be integrated into tourism-related programs to encourage both tourists and operators to act responsibly. When communities, businesses, and educational institutions work together, a culture of sustainability can flourish.

The Influence of Environmental Journalism

A particularly insightful aspect of Kurup’s talk was the mention of environmental journalism as a tool for awareness. It was observed that the role of media extends beyond reporting events—it serves as a bridge between policy and public understanding. Environmental journalism can shed light on the challenges faced by coastal and rural regions, highlight success stories in eco-tourism, and encourage greater participation in conservation efforts.

By amplifying stories of environmental success and challenges, journalists can help guide public opinion toward sustainability. This form of communication plays an essential role in influencing decision-makers and travelers alike to adopt eco-friendly practices in tourism.

Strengthening Academic and Institutional Partnerships

The event also witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Centre for Environment Education’s Coastal Marine Blue Flag India initiative and the Department of Tourism Studies at Karnataka College. The agreement aimed to establish a framework for academic collaboration, enabling knowledge exchange, research opportunities, and joint initiatives focusing on coastal conservation and tourism management.

This collaboration marked a significant step toward creating bridges between environmental research and academic learning. It was expected that the partnership would empower students and faculty members to engage in real-world projects that contribute directly to sustainable tourism development in India.

Recognizing Student Excellence in Tourism Education

As part of the World Tourism Day celebrations, students who demonstrated outstanding performance in various competitions were honored with cash prizes and certificates. These awards not only recognized individual achievements but also celebrated the collective enthusiasm of the student community toward understanding and promoting sustainable tourism practices.

Such initiatives inspire students to approach tourism not merely as a business opportunity but as a mission that involves cultural preservation, community engagement, and environmental care. By acknowledging academic excellence, the institution reinforced the value of education as a cornerstone for sustainability in tourism.

Leadership and Institutional Presence

The event was graced by the presence of distinguished personalities, including former Registrar S. Rajashekar, college principal I.C. Mulagund, and Head of the Department of Tourism Studies Jagadeesh Kivudanavar. Their participation highlighted the institution’s dedication to promoting the principles of eco-tourism and advancing sustainable development goals within the academic framework.

Through their collective leadership and guidance, the Department of Tourism Studies continues to play an instrumental role in encouraging research, innovation, and practical approaches to sustainability. Their commitment reflects the broader ambition of India’s educational institutions to bridge the gap between theory and real-world application in tourism management.

The World Tourism Day celebration at Dharwad underscored the urgency of integrating sustainability into every layer of India’s tourism industry. From eco-tourism initiatives and educational reforms to media advocacy and institutional partnerships, the discussions converged on a shared vision: a tourism future that respects the environment while driving socio-economic progress.

The perspectives shared by Professor A.M. Khan and Shreeji Kurup reiterated that India’s path to tourism excellence lies in embracing sustainability not as an ideal but as a necessity. By fostering eco-conscious education, responsible travel practices, and collaborative innovation, India can continue to emerge as a global leader in sustainable tourism—where every journey contributes to the well-being of the planet and its people.