Govt inks pact to develop responsible tourism in MP

Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala model of Responsible Tourism, which changed the face of state tourism and strengthened the local community involvement in tourism, is expected to make an impact in other states as well in the near future.
In spite of the Covid-19 outbreak, which is causing havoc in the sector worldwide, an agreement has been signed between the state tourism departments of Kerala and Madhya Pradesh for developing responsible tourism in the ‘central province’ of the country. And, considering the international recognitions and accolades the Kerala RT (Responsible Tourism) Mission has been receiving over the last couple of years for its activities, more states are expected to follow suit, say state tourism officials.
Tourism minister Kadakampally Surendran has already announced in the Assembly about the pact, which is aimed to implement RT in Madhya Pradesh. “Activities of RT Mission in Kerala is the best example of participatory approach in tourism sector. It is a proud moment that Madhya Pradesh is starting RT with the guidance and support of Kerala Tourism,” the minister said.
Pact was signed between state tourism secretary Rani George and Faiz Ahmed Kidwai, the principal secretary to CM and tourism department of Madhya Pradesh. State RT Mission coordinator Rupesh Kumar K will be the nodal officer for Kerala while Manoj Kumar Singh, the director Madhya Pradesh tourism board will be the nodal officer for the state. The agreement is valid up to 2022.