TOFTigers marks 20 years, advocates nature tourism for conservation, ET TravelWorld
TOFTigers, celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2024, has urged India to spearhead a global movement in re-wilding and conservation by leveraging nature tourism as a vital tool to safeguard biodiversity. Established two decades ago, the organisation has consistently championed the role of sustainable tourism in wildlife restoration and ecosystem protection.
Highlighting the critical state of global wilderness — with a tenth of the Earth’s wild areas lost in the past 25 years — TOFTigers is advocating for the tourism industry and government to adopt sustainable practices. The organisation emphasises how well-managed nature tourism can provide essential ecosystem services such as clean air, water, flood control, and soil fertility, while also delivering economic benefits.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi released the first batch of cheetahs from Namibia into a quarantine enclosure at Kuno in Madhya Pradesh on September 17 last year. In a second such translocation, 12 cheetahs from South Africa were released into Kuno on February 18. Of the 17 remaining adult cheetahs, seven have already been released into the wild. “The project is on track and there’s no cause for worry,” an official stated.
A key initiative driving this mission is the PUG (Practices Under Guidelines) certification, which establishes high sustainability standards for eco-friendly tourism operators. This programme ensures tourism activities support conservation goals while minimising environmental impact. As part of its anniversary celebrations, TOFTigers recently held its Wildlife Tourism Awards, honouring individuals and organisations excelling in sustainable tourism practices.
Vishal Singh, Cofounder and Director of TOFTigers, remarked, “TOFTigers envisions a future where nature tourism drives a new wave of support for wildlife conservation, rural communities, and re-wilding efforts. Being on the bucket list for global tourists, it’s the perfect moment for India to lead by example, demonstrating how responsible tourism can simultaneously protect our natural landscapes and benefit local economies.”
Through initiatives like these, TOFTigers seeks to position India as a global leader in sustainable nature tourism and conservation.
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