In an innovative move, the Ministry of Tourism and the Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation (DDWS) under the Ministry of Jal Shakti have launched the Swachhata Green Leaf Rating (SGLR) program, which aims to transform sanitation standards in India's booming tourism sector. In line with the goal of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to provide tourists with top-notch hygiene and sanitation facilities, this ambitious project is a crucial step in encouraging cleaner and more sustainable tourism practices across the country.
Government's Vision for Cleaner Tourism
The Union Minister for Jal Shakti, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, has urged all tourism establishments to improve the hygienic and aesthetic standards at well-known tourist locations throughout the nation. Shri Shekhawat emphasized the significance of improving sanitary standards to draw more tourists and strengthen brand value, stressing the role of hospitality establishments as ambassadors of India's hospitality and growth.
Bison Resorts, Madhai, located in the heart of Narmadapuram, Madhya Pradesh, has taken the lead by receiving the first Five Swachhata Green Leaf Rating Certificate of Recognition. This award establishes a positive standard for the tourism industry and reaffirms the resort's dedication to ethical tourism practices. Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister, acknowledged the milestone achievement on 'X' and praised Bison Resorts for their commitment to enhancing sanitary standards.
Swachhata Green Leaf Rating Initiative All Set To Revolutionize India's Burgeoning Tourism Industry With World-Class Hygiene & Sanitation Facilities For Tourist & Promote Sustainable Tourism
As Ambassadors Of Our Country’s Hospitality, All Tourist Facilities Should Actively… pic.twitter.com/fiqXfcBcdP— PIB India (@PIB_India) March 2, 2024
National Recognition and Expansion
Minister Shekhawat praised Bison Resorts for capturing the essence of responsible tourism, acknowledging the critical role the hospitality industry plays in promoting a favorable image of it. He underlined that the Swachhata Green Leaf Rating represents a commitment to guiding the tourism industry's future toward sustainability, not just a designation.
The Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation's Secretary, Ms. Vini Mahajan, emphasized that Bison Resorts' award should serve as a wake-up call for other tourism destinations around the country. She called on businesses in every State and U.T. to take the initiative to improve the appearance and cleanliness of tourist destinations, seeing a reimagined tourism industry as a global spokesperson for hygiene and conscientious travel.
Aligning with Sustainable Tourism Initiatives
The "National Pilot on Swachhata Green Leaf Rating in Hospitality Facilities" was launched in Pahalgam district, Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir, as well as Kaziranga National Park in Assam. To acquaint hoteliers, resort owners, and homestay operators with the SGLR program's tenets and regulations, interactive sessions and orientations were held. Unveiled in January 2024 during a National Conference in Lucknow, the SGLR booklet is a complete guide for organizations dedicated to promoting sustainable development and upholding international standards for cleanliness.
To raise awareness of sustainable tourism practices, the Travel for Life (TFL) program within Mission LiFE and the SGLR project work together harmoniously. The SGLR program aims to develop a sustainable, ethical, and resilient tourism sector for the future by promoting eco-friendly habits among both travelers and businesses.
(With input from agencies)
Ⓒ Copyright 2024. All Rights Reserved Powered by Vygr Media.
