AN EVALUATION OF RESPONSIBLE TOURISM INITIATIVES IN KUMARAKOM

Abstract

Responsible Tourism conceived with three kinds of responsibilities which are termed as the ‘triple bottom-line’ - economic responsibility, social responsibility and environmental responsibility. Responsible Tourism encompasses all forms of tourism and seeks to minimize negative economic, environment and social impacts. It generates greater economic benefits to local people and enhances the well-being of local communities. The concept of responsible tourism show successful developments in social, economic and environmental sphere of tourism in Kerala. Kumarakom was honored by Ministry of Tourism, Govt of India for the best Responsible Tourism initiative in Kerala and it also bagged the national award for rural tourism. Kumarakom became a model for other destinations with their initiatives with strong support from local self-government, kudumbasree groups, farmers and industry partners. The study attempts to evaluate the various initiatives that stimulated the growth of responsible tourism in Kumarakom and the level of satisfaction among the local people as regards various responsible tourism initiatives.