TOFTigers Marks 20 Years; Urges India to Lead in Re-Wilding and Sustainable Tourism

TOFTigers, a pioneer in sustainable nature tourism, is celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2024 by urging India to spearhead a global movement in re-wilding and conservation. The organisation emphasises the potential of responsible tourism as a powerful tool to protect biodiversity while supporting local economies.

Over the past two decades, TOFTigers has promoted eco-friendly tourism as a means to restore wildlife habitats and strengthen ecosystems. With studies showing that the Earth has lost a tenth of its wilderness in just 25 years, TOFTigers advocates for India to adopt sustainable tourism to safeguard its natural heritage. The group highlights how nature tourism can provide essential services, such as clean air, water, flood control, and soil fertility, while generating significant economic benefits.

Big Ambitions

A key initiative under TOFTigers’ efforts is its Practices Under Guidelines (PUG) certification. This program sets high sustainability standards for eco-tourism operators, ensuring that tourism activities remain environmentally responsible.

As part of its anniversary, TOFTigers hosted the 7th Wildlife Tourism Awards on February 6 at Bikaner House in Delhi. These awards recognized individuals and organisations making notable contributions to conservation through tourism. TOFTigers’ Director and Co-founder Vishal Singh underscored the importance of using nature tourism to boost wildlife protection and rural development. “India is perfectly positioned to lead by example, showing how responsible tourism can preserve natural landscapes and uplift local communities,” Singh said. He hopes the awards inspire greater collaboration between the tourism sector, NGOs, and government bodies to create a sustainable future.

Taking Action

Highlighting the initiative’s impact, Shri Mukesh Meshram, Director (Admin) of Uttar Pradesh Eco-Tourism Development Board, applauded TOFTigers for fostering sustainable tourism practices that align with Uttar Pradesh’s goals. “With iconic landscapes and rich wildlife, Uttar Pradesh aims to protect biodiversity and empower communities through innovative tourism,” he said. Meshram also noted collaborative efforts like the TOFT Good Wildlife Travel Guide and FAM tours, which promote eco-tourism in the state.

Shri Prakhar Misra, Additional Director of the same board, emphasised the importance of engaging the private sector and local communities in conservation. He highlighted projects such as the UNESCO World Heritage site nomination for Salkhan Fossil Park in Sonbhadra and curated eco-tours as examples of Uttar Pradesh’s growing role in sustainable tourism.

In Madhya Pradesh, known as the "Tiger State" for its thriving tiger population, conservation and eco-tourism remain a priority. Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary of Tourism and Culture, pointed to the state’s extensive network of protected areas, including nine tiger reserves and 24 wildlife sanctuaries. “Our initiatives—such as eco-friendly homestays and community-focused conservation—reflect our commitment to promoting responsible tourism and preserving biodiversity,” he said.

Building A Community

TOFTigers has also focused on skill development in local communities, offering training programs for nature guides and wildlife enthusiasts. These efforts aim to ensure that the benefits of tourism are shared equitably between people and the environment. By collaborating with wildlife experts and naturalists, TOFTigers continues to build a strong network of conservation advocates.

Through its programs and partnerships, TOFTigers envisions a future where well-managed nature tourism supports ecological preservation and economic growth. As India remains a key destination for global travelers, initiatives like TOFTigers demonstrate how the country can balance conservation with community development, setting an example for sustainable tourism worldwide.