Berhampur University Hosts 1st National Conference On Sustainable Tourism Development

Berhampur: The postgraduate department of Berhampur University’s Tourism & Travel Studies is organising the maiden two-day national conference on ‘Sustainable Coastal and Marine Tourism Practices’.

The conference aims to explore pioneering approaches, research findings and best practices that champion sustainability in coastal and marine tourism. By fostering collaboration among stakeholders, the conference looks to catalyse positive change and contribute significantly to the global discourse on sustainable tourism development.

India government’s Ministry of Tourism and Odisha government have extended support to the university to draw academic attention as well as industry challenges to the problem of coastal and marine tourism practices.

Sustainable coastal and marine tourism practices not only contribute to the long-term health of ecosystems but also enhance overall visitor experience.

The conference will provide a platform for experts and scholars to share insights, research findings, and practical solutions, fostering a collaborative approach to address the complex issues associated with coastal and marine tourism.

The theme of ‘Sustainable Coastal and Marine Tourism Practices’ underscores the critical importance of balancing tourism development with preservation and conservation of our coastal and marine ecosystems.

Coastal regions, considered one of the prime destinations for tourists, face unique challenges due to the delicate balance required to ensure economic benefits while safeguarding the environment.

Some of the key topics of discussion span ocean-based tourism, the blue economy, coastal area management, responsible tourism management, community-based tourism, crisis management, green management tools and practices, and various allied themes.

Distinguished personalities from academia, industry and government are gracing the conference.

Dr Ratikanta Pattanayak, Retd Assistant Director, Odisha’s Department of Tourism, addressed the audience on sustainability dimensions of marine and coastal tourism practices.

Prof. Nimit Ranjan Chowdhary, Tourism & Hospitality department head of Jamia Milia Islamia University discussed post-COVID tourism and cited examples of different sustainable tourism practices across the globe.

SOA Pro Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sitikantha Mishra highlighted the importance of marine and coastal tourism from the perspective of spiritual dimensions focusing on Indian ethos on spirituality and religious dimensions on nature conservation.

Berhampur University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Geetanjali Dash highlighted the importance of sustainable development for coastal and marine tourism by giving examples from India in general and southern Odisha in particular.

The conference comprised three technical sessions, where dignitaries from all over India presented their research articles and findings on the theme.