In a major move to revolutionize sanitation practices in India's burgeoning tourism industry, the Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation (DDWS), Ministry of Jal Shakti, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, has introduced the Swachhata Green Leaf Rating (SGLR) initiative. This visionary program aligns with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's emphasis on providing world-class hygiene and sanitation facilities for tourist, marking a crucial step towards cleaner and more sustainable tourism practices. The Union Minister for Jal Shakti, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat exhorted all tourist facilities to enhance aesthetic and sanitation levels at tourist destinations. He said “As ambassadors of our country’s hospitality & development, all our tourist facilities should actively involve themselves in enhancing the aesthetic & sanitation levels of our tourist spots”. Shri Shekhawat further added “with its investment in the desired direction of responsible sanitation, the hospitality sector will be able to attract increased tourist footfall while simultaneously achieving brand value for itself”.

Bison Resorts, Madhai, in the heart of Narmadapuram, Madhya Pradesh has taken the lead by obtaining the first Five Swachhata Green Leaf Rating Certificate of Recognition. This accolade solidifies the resort's commitment to responsible tourism practices and sets a commendable precedent for the industry. Union Minister, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, acknowledging this milestone achievement on ‘X’, commended Bison Resorts for their dedication to raising sanitation standards.

The Union Minister for Jal Shakti recognized the pivotal role the hospitality sector plays in attracting an increased tourist footfall while contributing to a positive image of responsible tourism. He said "As ambassadors of our country's hospitality and development, Bison Resorts exemplifies the spirit of responsible tourism. The Swachhata Green Leaf Rating is not just a recognition but a commitment to shaping the future of our tourism industry".

The Swachhata Green Leaf Rating System is an effort in response to our PM Shri @narendramodi ji’s emphasis on world-class levels of hygiene and sanitation in tourist facilities across the country as a prerequisite for boosting tourism.

It is aimed at voluntarily engaging the… pic.twitter.com/1nLt60WWqh

— Gajendra Singh Shekhawat (@gssjodhpur) March 1, 2024

The Secretary, Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation, Ms. Vini Mahajan said “this recognition of Bison Resorts serves as a clarion call for other tourist facilities across all States/UTs to actively involve themselves in enhancing the aesthetic and sanitation levels of tourist spots. With the current progress trend of Swachh Bharat Mission and the SGLR, we have a potential to redefine the image of the tourism sector, positioning it as a global ambassador for cleanliness and responsible tourism.

Launch of the "National Pilot on Swachhata Green Leaf Rating in Hospitality Facilities" was done at Pahalgam district Anantnag, Jammu & Kashmir and Kaziranga National Park, Assam. Orientation and interactive session with various hotels, resorts and homestay owners was conducted. The SGLR booklet, unveiled during a National Conference in Lucknow in January 2024, acts as a guide for establishments committed to championing sustainable development and ensuring world-class sanitation standards.(here)

The SGLR initiative seamlessly aligns with the Travel for LiFE (TFL) program under Mission LiFE, fostering awareness about sustainable tourism. By nudging both tourists and businesses to adopt practices harmonious with nature, the SGLR program aims to develop an economically viable, responsible, and resilient tourism industry.

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Anubhav Singh