TOFTigers Award Sponsors and Supporters for 2024

We Extend Our Heartfelt Thanks to all our Sponsors and Partners for Their Invaluable Support in Creating the Momentum for Celebrating Those Making a Difference in Wildlife Tourism.

Uttar Pradesh  Ecotourism Development Board, as the official state partner for the 7th TOFTigers Wildlife Tourism Awards 2024, plays a vital role in advancing responsible and sustainable tourism. The state is home to several remarkable tiger reserves, notably Dudhwa, Pilibhit, Ranipur and Amangarh, each taking steps towards the conservation of biodiversity and  rich flora and fauna. These reserves are not only vital habitats for tigers but also support a range of other species, including elephants, leopards, and diverse birdlife. Efforts in these reserves focus on safeguarding wildlife, promoting biodiversity, and involving local communities in conservation and ecotourism initiatives.

The Uttar Pradesh Ecotourism Development Board recently unveiled a new logo that represents the state’s commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism. The logo combines the image of a majestic tiger and other wildlife with natural elements like trees and water, symbolizing harmony between wildlife and nature-based tourism. This design emphasizes the board’s mission to foster eco-friendly tourism experiences while protecting the state’s invaluable natural resources and raising awareness about conservation among tourists and communities alike.

For more information about UP Tourism, visit: www.uptourism.gov.in

Abercrombie & Kent, a leader in luxury travel for over 60 years, is renowned for creating inspiring and unique experiences, from grand palaces and wildlife sanctuaries to pristine beaches. Their global team is dedicated to environmental stewardship and empowers local communities through philanthropic initiatives and sustainable tourism practices. This year, we proudly welcome Abercrombie & Kent as the sponsor of the Wildlife Tourism Community Initiative of the Year Award at the 7th TOFTigers’ Wildlife Tourism Awards 2024. Their commitment to responsible wildlife tourism aligns seamlessly with TOFTigers’ mission and has earned them global recognition, including accolades as one of the world’s top Tour Operators from Condé Nast Traveller and the title of Europe’s Leading Luxury Tour Operator at the World Travel Awards.

To learn more about Abercrombie & Kent, visit: https://www.toftigers.org/dmc/abercrombie/

Pugdundee Safaris is one of India’s leading responsible safari companies, renowned for its commitment to eco-tourism and conservation. With seven award-winning jungle lodges in Central India, Pugdundee offers immersive wildlife experiences while promoting sustainability and community development. Their focus on balancing tourism with habitat preservation and supporting local livelihoods aligns with their responsible travel mission.

Guides are the frontline defenders of our national parks, who play a pivotal role in fostering conservation through guest education and by inspiring guests to practice responsible tourism that protects our natural heritage. In honoring the legacy of Kunwar “Billy” Arjan Singh, a legendary conservationist and one of the pioneers of India’s wildlife conservation movement, playing a pivotal role in banning sport hunting and revitalizing Dudhwa’s tiger population, the Billy Arjan Singh Memorial Award for the Best Wildlife Guides of the Year 2024 recognizes guides who embody his dedication to wildlife protection.

Pugdundee Safaris sponsors The Billy Arjan Singh Memorial Award for the Best Wildlife Guide of the Year 2024, for North, East, West and South regions , celebrating guides who share Billy’s passion for wildlife conservation.

For more information about them, visit: https://www.pugdundeesafaris.com/about-pugdundee-safaris

We are pleased to introduce Sampat Wildlife Foundation, an initiative by Utsav Camp Sariska, as the sponsor of the Lodge Naturalist of the Year Award at the 7th TOFTigers’ Wildlife Tourism Awards 2024. Lodge naturalists enhance guest experiences and support responsible tourism by sharing knowledge of local ecosystems and promoting environmental awareness. Dedicated to preserving Rajasthan’s unique wildlife and natural habitats, Sampat Wildlife Foundation fosters a harmonious coexistence between nature and the local community by promoting sustainable tourism, wildlife conservation, and environmental education. The Foundation’s work is rooted in the pioneering vision of Sampat Singh Shekhawat, a forest officer among the last generation trained by British officials. His groundbreaking efforts laid the foundation for the renowned Ranthambore, Bharatpur, and Sariska forest training schools—institutions that have played a critical role in shaping India’s wildlife conservation landscape.

Through various programs and initiatives, Sampat Foundation strive to raise awareness about the importance of protecting endangered species like the Bengal tiger, while supporting local conservation efforts. By working with experts and volunteers, Sampat Wildlife Foundation is committed to safeguarding the future of Rajasthan’s rich biodiversity for generations to come.

To know more about them, visit: https://www.utsavcampsariska.com/sampat-wildlife-foundation.html

The Wander Plan is committed to crafting sustainable travel experiences that focus on taking their guests off the beaten track, allowing them to discover the remarkable natural history of our planet and explore the connection it has to our daily lives. Their itineraries are designed to be eco-friendly while focussing on connecting travelers with nature, wildlife and authentic cultural experiences.

This year, we are excited to have The Wander Plan as the sponsor of the Wildlife and Tourism Initiative of the Year Award at the 7th TOFTigers’ Wildlife Tourism Awards 2024. Their dedication to promoting eco-friendly travel practices aligns perfectly with TOFTigers’ mission, highlighting their role as a forward-thinking leader in the travel industry.

To explore more about The Wander Plan and their commitment to sustainable tourism, reach out to email id: https://www.thewanderplan.com/

TOFTigers extends its heartfelt appreciation to Tiger Resorts for their sponsorship of the prestigious Kailash Sankhala Visitor-Friendly Wildlife National Park of the Year Award. Late Sh. Kailash Sankhala, widely known as Tiger Man of India, was the first conservationist who raised a voice in favor of protecting the tiger as early as 1956. He spread the message to help tigers from the brink of extinction in an age when hunting tigers was practiced. He carried this mission throughout his life, even at the risk of his professional career and death threats.His extensive study on tigers and his research lead into the launch of Project Tiger in 1973. He won many awards for his efforts, including the National Honor of Padamshri in 1992.

Inheriting the spirit of their ancestors, Tiger Resorts, is  a pioneer in India’s eco-tourism landscape, brings an extraordinary legacy to this collaboration. Established in 1984, Tiger Resorts was among the first to champion sustainable tourism through immersive wildlife experiences. Their flagship properties, Bandhavgarh Jungle Lodge and Kanha Junge Lodge, stand as a beacon of eco-conscious hospitality, located on the edge of Bandhavgarh National Park and Kanha National Park. These lodge blend environmental sensitivity with unparalleled service, setting a standard for responsible tourism. Every aspect, from their design to their activities, reflects a deep respect for nature, allowing guests to connect with India’s unique wildlife in an ethical, low-impact manner.

To know more about them, visit:  https://www.tiger-resorts.com/

We are happy  to announce that Nature inFocus, one of the largest and most dynamic communities of wildlife photographers, filmmakers, conservationists, and nature travel enthusiasts, has joined us as a supporting partner for the 7th TOFTigers Wildlife Tourism Awards 2024!

Their incredible platform empowers storytellers to share visual narratives that showcase the beauty of the natural world. Through these stories, NiF not only highlights the intricacies of the natural world but also sheds light on the pressing environmental crises we face today.

WeNaturalists, a pioneering platform dedicated to driving Climate Action and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at scale through Education & Awareness, Digital Transformation, and Sustainability Solutions.

WeNaturalists is an innovative community that empowers individuals and organizations committed to sustainability to connect, collaborate, and inspire action. By providing tools and solutions for those working towards a sustainable future, WeNaturalists amplifies efforts that contribute to the protection of our planet.

With this collaboration, we aim to further promote responsible tourism, environmental conservation, and sustainable practices through the 7th TOFTigers Wildlife Tourism Awards 2024.

We are delighted to have the esteemed media partners supporting the 7th TOFTigers Wildlife Tourism Awards 2024. They partner with us raising awareness towards driving a change towards a better future in  tourism and wildlife conservation. Through their coverage, these partners will spotlight the inspiring work of award winners, sponsors, and nominees, ensuring that the message of responsible tourism reaches a broad audience. Together, they will help amplify the impact of the awards and promote best practices in conservation and community-driven tourism.

For any sponsorship opportunities or inquiries regarding the TOFTigers Wildlife Tourism Awards, please contact us at admin@toftindia.org/ toftigers@toftindia.org