Indian Responsible Tourism State Awards 2025

our story

Over the last 10 years, the Indian Responsible Tourism Awards (IRTA) has celebrated the pioneers who are redefining travel with passion and purpose. Our journey is fuelled by a commitment to showcase innovative, sustainable tourism initiatives that honour India's rich cultural tapestry and natural beauty. Each year, we shine a spotlight on the remarkable individuals and organisations whose efforts are transforming the travel landscape—driving change, fostering community, and setting new benchmarks for ethical tourism.

Our Impact

Our initiatives have sparked a nationwide movement, reaching over 50 million digital engagements and building a vibrant community of travel enthusiasts. We have forged partnerships with over 20 states and empowered local stakeholders, all while celebrating the achievements of over 250 trailblazing winners who inspire us with their commitment to responsible travel. These numbers reflect not only our growth but also our enduring influence in championing sustainable tourism practices across India. We hope to build, inspire, support and amplify the voices of a vast network of responsible tourism stakeholders across the 29 states and 8 union territories of India.

Outlook Responsible Tourism Future Forum Workshop - Maharashtra Chapter

The Outlook Responsible Tourism Future Forum brings meaningful conversations on sustainability and community-led tourism to every corner of India. This year, we are launching a special series of three workshops across Maharashtra — each designed to inspire, connect, and empower those shaping the future of travel.

Join us for Reviving Heritage, Reimagining Narratives: The Future of Tourism in Cultural Landscapes, a workshop that explores how stories of the past can guide responsible tourism for the future. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this important dialogue! Along with this, please add the banner at the bottom of this text. I’ve attached the banner in the mail. The banner should have the clickable registration link embedded in it to redirect people to register.

IRTSA 2026 Maharashtra Chapter

Maharashtra—a land of coastal cliffs, sacred hill-shrines, forts, vibrant festivals, and rich local cultures—joins the Indian Responsible Tourism State Awards for the first time in 2026. This edition celebrates the state’s diverse heritage, from the tribal traditions of Vidarbha and the Warli art of its Adivasi communities to the Legacy of Paithani sarees and the coastal vibrancy of Konkan.

In partnership with the Directorate of Tourism (DoT), Government of Maharashtra, we aim to spotlight local entrepreneurs, community leaders, and eco-innovators shaping a more sustainable travel landscape.

Join us this February as we honour those redefining travel in Maharashtra—with creativity, care, and shared responsibility.