Adventure Tourism: The Economic Impact, Sustainable Development in India

Written By Ankit Gupta

In today’s world, exploration and adventure have become integral components of the ever-expanding tourism landscape, contributing significantly to the economic development of rural destinations. This phenomenon, often underestimated, finds a vibrant expression in India, a country boasting diverse landscapes that cater to a myriad of adventure activities.

From the serenity of hiking and trekking to the adrenaline-pumping experiences of surfing, skiing, and white water rafting, India offers a spectrum of options for adventure enthusiasts. Uttarakhand, with its renowned ‘Roopkund trek,’ serves as an emblematic illustration of the nation’s allure for such pursuits.

Within the context of India’s economic dynamics, where tourism plays a pivotal role, adventure tourism emerges as a noteworthy contributor. Despite the hurdles posed by recent global events, the tourism sector in India demonstrated resilience in 2021, bouncing back from a contraction in the previous year. Forecasts from the World Travel and Tourism Council indicate substantial growth, with a projected annual rate of 7.8 percent, contributing significantly to the country’s GDP by 2031.

National Strategy for Sustainability

Government authorities in India have discerned the strategic importance of adventure tourism, acknowledging its role in achieving Sustainable Development Goals. This commitment found expression during the 2nd Tourism Working Group Meeting under the G20, where G K Reddy, Union Minister for Culture, Tourism, and DoNER, underscored the significance of adventure tourism in the broader context of national goals.

In tandem with this recognition, the Indian government has taken initiatives to promote sustainability. Mission-LIFE, an endeavour encouraging a sustainable lifestyle through the establishment of tourism clubs in educational institutions, aims to instil awareness among the younger generation about India’s natural, cultural, and spiritual heritage.

A holistic national strategy for adventure tourism encompasses various projects, including State Ranking Criteria for Adventure Tourism Sites, Model Adventure Tourism Law, Mega Trails, and Adventure Activity Guidelines. These initiatives collectively position India on the global stage as a premier destination for adventure tourism.

G20 Alignment and Recognition

The alignment of these efforts with India’s G20 Presidency is evident in the organisation of over 200 meetings across the nation, showcasing the country’s cultural richness and geographical diversity. The G20’s focus on themes such as green tourism, digitalisation, skills, tourism MSMEs, and destination management dovetails seamlessly with India’s endeavours to promote adventure tourism.

In the spirit of inclusivity, initiatives during these meetings also spotlight regional arts and products. These efforts contribute to the overarching goals outlined in the Goa Roadmap and Action Plan for Achieving SDGs, emphasizing India’s commitment to making the G20 an inclusive platform.

In India, we are still at a nascent stage as far as adventure tourism is concerned. Having said that, it does create a colourful picture that includes economic growth, sustainability, and getting noticed around the world. Thanks to the efforts of the government and collaboration on the global stage, India has become a sought-after place for adventure lovers. This not only boosts the economy but also encourages sharing cultures and working together in the scenic rural areas of the country.

(The author is the founder and director-business development of Roostels India)