In an attempt to make a dramatic and sweeping change in the rising tourism industry in India, the Ministry of Jal Shakti in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism has introduced the Swachhata Green Leaf Rating (SGLR) initiative.

This programme aims to uplift the standards of hygiene that the government is expecting to improve and concurrently improving the sanitation facilities shall help in building an ecosystem of clean and more sustainable tourism practices.

Union Minister for Jal Shakti Gajendra Singh Shekhawat appealed to all tourist destinations and spots to elevate the standards of aesthetics in their region. It shall be as an extension of our country's effort in hospitality and development.

Each area will this way will go ahead in achieving brand value for itself and with investment and capital in the desired direction and responsible works of sanitation, tourist attraction shall pour in volumes.

Bison Resorts, located in the heart of Madhya Pradesh obtained the lead by obtaining the first Five Swachhata Green Leaf Rating Certificate of Recognition. This recognition has reinforced the commitment to responsible tourism practices and is a commendable example for other units in the industry.

The Union Minister has recognised the importance of aesthetics, hospitality, development, sanitation and hygiene in developing tourism as an industry in the region.

The rating system will also introduce a star-rating system to recognise and incentivize different establishments that contribute to sustainable, responsible and resilient tourism.

The Green Leaf Rating System is a chief component of this mission, encouraging hospitality facilities, including resorts, hotels, homestays and Dharamshalas in rural areas to adopt safely managed sanitation.

A huge congratulations have been extended to Bison Resort, Madai of Narmadapuram district on obtaining the much-coveted

 certificate and in joining hands towards the practices of sustainable tourism. It appreciated the efforts of the resort to maintain equality and quality in all its properties.

Launch of the 'National Pilot on Swachhata Green Leaf Rating in Hospitality Facilities' was done in Pahalgam district Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir and Kaziranga National Park, Assam. Orientation sessions were held with hotels and resorts and homestay owners were conducted. The SGLR booklet, unveiled during a National Conference in Lucknow in January 2024, acts as a guide for establishment championing for sustainable standards of tourism.

Sustainable tourism is though a long way in achieving and becoming a pivotal component of the tourism effort still this very effort shall serve as the foundation or the building block at the country's level.

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References:

• pib.gov.in/PressRelease
  
• thestatesman.com
• timesofindia.indiatimes.com