Parliament Question: Impact of Over-Tourism in Vulnerable Areas

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF TOURISM LOK SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO.†4858 ANSWERED ON 23.03.2026 IMPACT OF OVER-TOURISM IN VULNERABLE AREAS †4858. Dr. Anand Kumar: Will the Minister of TOURISM be pleased to state: (a) whether the Government has commissioned any study to assess the environmental and socio-cultural impacts of over-tourism on ecologically sensitive areas including the Himalayas region, if so, the details of its key findings thereof; (b) whether the Government has any proposal to establish a standardized "Carrying Capacity Score" or scientific benchmark for destinations experiencing excessive tourist pressure; (c) whether tourist limits, pre-registration, time-bound entry or other regulatory measures have been implemented or proposed to be implemented to ensure controlled tourism in sensitive areas; and (d) the details of time-bound action plan to incorporate these measures into the National Tourism Policy to promote sustainable tourism and conserve natural and cultural heritage? ANSWER THE MINISTER OF TOURISM (SHRI GAJENDRA SINGH SHEKHAWAT) (a) to (d): Development and promotion of tourist destinations including assessment of the environmental and socio-cultural impacts of over- tourism, carrying capacity, entry regulations etc. is primarily undertaken by the concerned State Government (SG)/UT Administration (UTA). However, Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme of the Ministry of Tourism encourages adoption of principles of sustainable tourism including environmental sustainability, socio-cultural sustainability and economicsustainability. The Ministry of Tourism is also encouraging the State Governments /UTAs to undertake carrying capacity assessment while submitting their project proposals for consideration. The Ministry had formulated a draft National Tourism Policy, however, in due course of time most of the key strategic objectives and action areas highlighted in the draft policy document have been suitably incorporated in the Ministry’s existing initiatives, strategies and related documents. The Ministry has released ‘National Strategy for Sustainable Tourism’ which acts as a guiding document for all stakeholders including State Governments/UT Administrations, with an aim to mainstream sustainability in Indian tourism sector and ensure a more resilient, inclusive, carbon neutral and resource efficient tourism while safeguarding natural and cultural resources. It also focuses on effective visitor management including spreading and deflecting demand, physical site management, engaging local community in the development of tourism policies and plans, getting the balance right in the volume, timing and location of visits. ********