Dhudhmaras, a village in Bastar district of Chhattisgarh, has been selected by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) to participate in the Best Tourism Village Upgradation Programme (BTVUP) under the United Nations Tourism Programme for Rural Development (UNTRDP). This recognition reflects its potential as a hub for ecotourism and sustainable development.
Key Facts about Dhudmaras Village
- Location: Located in Kanger Valley National Park (KVNP), Dhudmaras is surrounded by dense forests, Kanger River and rich biodiversity, making it a major ecotourism destination.
- KVNP is named after the Kanger River, which flows through it. It was declared a national park in 1982.
- KVNP has three notable caves – Kutumbasar, Kailash and Dandak, which are famous for their stalagmites (mineral formations that grow out of the cave floor) and stalactites (mineral formations that hang from the cave ceiling).
- The park has an abundance of sal, teak and bamboo, which form a moist deciduous forest.
- Cultural significance: Dhudmarsh is home to the Dhruva tribe, which offers visitors an opportunity to experience authentic tribal life through accommodation, traditional food and guided tours.
- The Dhruva tribe, part of the Gond tribe, speaks the Gond dialect Parji. Their lifestyle is very much connected to nature, they depend on forests and natural resources for their livelihood.
- Recognition and support: As part of UNWTO’s initiative under BTVUP, Dhudhamars will now receive assistance to enhance areas such as economic sustainability, environmental sustainability and tourism development, ensuring long-term development.
United Nations Tourism Programme for Rural Development
- Introduction: UNTRDP promotes development, inclusion and innovation in rural areas through tourism, with the aim of combating depopulation and promoting sustainable practices.
- Assessment criteria: Villages participating in the programme are evaluated under nine key areas, including cultural and natural resources, economic and social sustainability, tourism development and infrastructure, etc.
- This assessment ensures that the selected villages meet the standards of sustainability, inclusiveness and governance.
The three pillars of UNTRDP
- Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism: Rural tourism destinations are recognized for their cultural and natural assets, community values and commitment to innovation and sustainability.
- BTVUP: Assists villages in improving weak areas to expedite the process of applications for Best Tourism Village recognition.
- Best Tourism Village Network: Provides a platform for sharing experiences and collaborating on best practices in rural tourism, connecting experts, communities and stakeholders.
United Nations World Tourism Organisation
- Established in 1975 and headquartered in Madrid, Spain, UNWTO promotes responsible, sustainable and accessible tourism.
- With 159 member countries including India, it serves as a global forum for tourism policy, advocates a global code of conduct for tourism, and aligns tourism with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
- Goal 8.9 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) focuses on promoting sustainable tourism that creates jobs and preserves local culture and products.