Tourism has increased pressure on Indian Himalayan Region.

[UPSC World]

• Tourism in the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) has shown a persistent upward trend over many decades except during the pandemic (2020-21).
• IHR is spread across 2 Union Territories and 11 Indian States.

Impacts of tourism on IHR:

1. Environmental impacts such as pollution (land, soil, air, water), biodiversity loss, exploitation of natural resources, increased waste generation, etc.
2. Sprawling urbanization and traffic congestion
3. Loss of indigenous culture
4. Food insecurity etc.

Recently, the Ministry of Tourism has also launched a National Strategy for Sustainable Tourism.

• The strategy has identified the strategic pillars for the development of sustainable tourism like promoting environmental sustainability, protecting biodiversity, promoting economic sustainability, etc.
• Other Recommendations for sustainable tourism:

• Strengthening community-based tourism.
• Establishment of regulated tourism practices with the promotion of sustainable agendas.
• Levying a green tax on tourist vehicles, proper solid waste management systems, etc.

• This reply was modified 9 months, 1 week ago by  UPSC World.
• This reply was modified 9 months, 1 week ago by  UPSC World.