December 5, 2023:  TOFTigers, in collaboration with the esteemed Sanctuary Nature Foundation, organized the 6th TOFTigers Wildlife Tourism Awards at Bikaner House, New Delhi. The awards ceremony, theme “Recognizing and Rewarding the Good Work,” served as a platform to honour outstanding contributions to sustainable and responsible tourism in the Indian subcontinent. The event brought together state tourism officials, businesses, service providers, photographers, community enterprises, wildlife enthusiasts that have demonstrated a profound commitment to conservation through exceptional wildlife tourism initiatives.

The TOFTigers Wildlife Tourism Awards, were established in 2010 to champion responsible tourism in India, has grown in prominence and significance, with past winners enjoying increased recognition and exposure for their dedication to sustainable tourism practices. By recognizing and rewarding committed performers in the industry, TOFTigers aim is to inspire others to adopt sustainable practices and contribute to the preservation of wildlife, environment and create sustainable ecosystems in India.

The event featured Mr. Praveen Pardeshi, Member Administration at Capacity Building Commission, Government of India, as the keynote speaker. Mr. Praveen Pardeshi, in his address, expressed his appreciation for creating this platform stating, “The TOFTigers Wildlife Tourism Awards play a crucial role in acknowledging the efforts of those dedicated to sustainable and responsible tourism. It is heartening to see the industry come together to celebrate these efforts. Mr. Pardeshi emphasized that  in future awards one of the criteria which must be incorporated is discouragement of fencing around  lodges  boundaries especially if they  within the tiger reserves as it is an hindrance for  corridors for the movement of wildlife species. 

Additionally, Dr. Anish Andheria, President & CEO of Wildlife Conservation Trust, delivered a compelling address on importance of wildlife conservation and its impacts. Dr. Andheria highlighted that “Tiger conservation serves as a flagship for conservation tourism, which communicates the message that this landscape is not only for one species but shared by all the creatures, big and small. He further emphasised that numerous natural places have come to life due to tiger conservation projects and initiatives.

Mr. Prakhar Mishra, IFS, Director, Uttar Pradesh Tourism, Mr. Yuvraj Padole, Deputy Director Events, Marketing & Film Tourism,  Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board , Mr. Sandeep Fellows, Deputy Director, Satpura Tiger Reserve & Mr. Naveen Khandelwal, Deputy Director Pilibhit Tiger Reserve graced the event with their presence as well.

View All the Winners and Runners Up here