Tourism officials from Odisha, Kerala, and Chhattisgarh discussed new strategies to increase domestic tourism during an India Today Tourism Survey and Awards panel [1].
This shift toward emerging destinations reflects a broader effort to distribute tourism revenue across diverse regions while reducing the environmental impact on traditional hotspots.
Chhattisgarh officials said the Bastar Chitrakoot Falls is a key site for attracting visitors to the state [1]. By promoting these less-visited landmarks, the state aims to fuel growth in domestic travel and create economic opportunities in rural areas.
Kerala's approach focuses on community-led conservation efforts [1]. Officials said the state is implementing programs that turn former poachers into protectors of the environment, integrating local populations into the tourism economy through sustainable practices.
Odisha presented a new tourism vision under the slogan “Think India, think Odisha” [1]. This strategy emphasizes sustainability and collaboration to position the state as a premier destination for conscious travelers.
Together, these initiatives represent a coordinated effort to pivot away from mass tourism toward a model that prioritizes ecological preservation and local empowerment [1]. The panel served as a platform to showcase how these distinct regional strategies can contribute to a national increase in domestic tourism.
“Kerala’s community‑led conservation that turns poachers into protectors”
The focus on 'hidden' destinations and community-led conservation suggests a strategic pivot in Indian tourism policy. By diversifying the map of popular sites, the government can mitigate over-tourism in traditional hubs while stimulating economic development in underdeveloped regions like Bastar. This approach aligns domestic growth with global sustainability trends, prioritizing the longevity of natural assets over short-term visitor volume.
