Tourism has always been more than movement; it is an exchange of cultures, ideas, and aspirations that has the power to uplift communities and conserve natural heritage. Debjit Dutta, Chairman, IATO West Bengal Chapter, and CEO, Impression Tourism Services (India) Pvt. Ltd. shares about Responsible Tourism mission.
Tripti Jain
Embracing this transformative potential, the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) unveiled the Responsible Tourism Mission 2027 (RTM27) during its 40th Annual Convention. The mission marks a defining step in India’s journey towards sustainable tourism, aiming to align growth with responsibility and inclusivity.
The initiative emerged from an inspiring panel discussion titled ‘Rediscovering India: From Growth to Sustainability’ where Debjit introduces RTM27 and shares, “Sustainability is a shared journey that begins with awareness and grows through action. RTM27 reflects our collective will to protect what we promote and nurture what we showcase.”
Building foundations for a sustainable future
RTM27 represents a nationwide commitment to making responsible tourism an integral part of India’s travel identity. In alignment with the National Strategy for Sustainable Tourism and the Government’s Travel for LiFE campaign, the mission seeks to integrate sustainability into every level of the tourism value chain.
It focuses on creating a comprehensive policy document, developing standard operating procedures, and hosting certification workshops and awards to recognise sustainable excellence. These initiatives are designed to encourage collaboration, promote accountability, and inspire industry-wide participation.
Debjit shares, “Our objective is to make sustainability accessible and actionable for everyone involved in tourism. From operators and hoteliers to guides and local communities, every contributor can play a vital role in shaping a more responsible travel culture. This inclusive approach transforms sustainability from a concept into a collective practice, ensuring that every journey taken in India contributes positively to the environment, society, and economy.”
Guided by visionary leadership
The mission’s strength lies in its leadership and its spirit of collaboration. It is guided by Debjit Dutta, with Ravi Gosain, President, IATO, and Sanjay Razdan, Vice President, IATO, as key initiators. Supporting them is a dedicated task force comprising respected professionals such as B. Gopinath, Rampratap Singh, and George Scaria, who bring experience and perspective from diverse areas of the travel ecosystem. Together, this leadership team envisions a future where sustainability becomes second nature within the industry.
“True leadership in tourism lies in shared purpose. RTM27 symbolises unity among all stakeholders to preserve our destinations and create value that endures beyond business. Through consultation, training, and collaboration, the task force ensures that every policy is supported by practical tools and real-world applications, transforming ideals into outcomes,” explains Debjit.
Sustainability as a way of life
The foundation of RTM27 rests on four essential pillars: environmental protection, biodiversity conservation, socio-cultural respect, and economic inclusivity. These elements together form a balanced approach to growth that benefits both destinations and their inhabitants.
The mission encourages low-impact operations, promotes responsible transport, and highlights the importance of local engagement. It also supports initiatives that uplift artisans, communities, and traditional knowledge systems.
Highlighting about new age sustainable practices Debjit educates, “Sustainability is about balance. It ensures that every stakeholder gains, every culture thrives, and every ecosystem remains healthy for generations to come. Through education and awareness, RTM27 aims to instil sustainability as a shared habit rather than an occasional act. Its message is simple yet profound: responsible tourism begins with conscious choices made every day.”
Creating a legacy
The essence of responsible tourism lies in the legacy it leaves behind. RTM27 envisions a future where India’s destinations are celebrated for both their beauty and their resilience. From its snow-capped mountains to its coastal villages, every region has the potential to flourish when tourism contributes to conservation and community welfare.
The mission promotes long-term thinking, encouraging all stakeholders to consider the wider impact of their actions. By promoting mindful travel and supporting community-driven initiatives, RTM27 seeks to create enduring benefits that extend beyond the traveller’s journey. He reflects, “Tourism can be a bridge between conservation and opportunity. Every step we take towards responsible travel builds a legacy of care, respect, and shared prosperity.”
Movement towards collective transformation
The launch of RTM27 at Puri represents more than a new initiative; it represents a new mindset for Indian tourism. It symbolises a nationwide commitment to progress that honours both people and the planet. Through partnerships, training, and shared accountability, IATO aims to position India as a global model for sustainable travel.
The mission calls upon tour operators, hospitality providers, government bodies, and travellers to come together in creating a more conscious and equitable tourism landscape. Its impact lies not just in policies but in the passion and participation of those who believe in purposeful travel.
Debjit invites the industries to join the initiative and says, “RTM27 invites every individual in the travel industry to contribute. Each small act of responsibility leads to a larger transformation, ensuring that our destinations remain vibrant and sustainable for the future.”
“Responsible tourism is the soul of India’s travel future. RTM27 is a collective commitment to safeguarding our heritage, empowering our communities, and ensuring that the joy of travel contributes to a sustainable and inclusive tomorrow.” – Ravi Gosain
