Tour operators’ body launches campaign for clean tourism at heritage destinations

The Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), a body representing over 2,000 industry members, has kicked off the first phase of its Swachh Paryatan Abhiyaan, or clean tourism drive, at Qutub Minar in New Delhi.

The campaign, launched on May 30, highlights the importance of safeguarding India’s cultural and historical heritage through collective action and responsible visitor behaviour.

"Participants actively engaged in awareness activities and pledged their support towards keeping tourist destinations clean and promoting environmentally responsible tourism practices," IATO, which describes itself as the voice of the country’s inbound tourism industry, said in a press release.

It added that the initiative has brought together IATO members, tourism professionals, students, local stakeholders and tourism enthusiasts with the objective of creating awareness about maintaining cleanliness at monuments and tourist destinations.

More from India

"India’s heritage monuments are not only symbols of our glorious past but also major attractions for international and domestic tourists. Clean and well-maintained destinations significantly enhance visitor experiences and strengthen India’s image as a world-class tourism destination. Through the Swachh Paryatan Abhiyaan, IATO seeks to inspire every stakeholder and traveller to take responsibility for preserving our heritage for future generations," IATO president Ravi Gosain said.

IATO secretary Sunil Mishra reiterated the tourism body's commitment to supporting the government's Swachh Bharat mission, sustainable tourism development, and effective destination management through regular awareness campaigns and stakeholder participation across the country.

The tourism body says preserving heritage sites and ensuring clean tourist destinations will contribute to enhanced visitor satisfaction, stronger destination branding and sustained tourism growth.

With members across the nation, IATO works closely with government bodies and industry stakeholders to promote tourism, enhance visitor experiences, and advocate policies that strengthen India’s position as a leading global tourism destination.