- As part of World Tourism Week, IGNTU students experienced trekking through forests, along the Amravati Ganga, and up to ‘Mai Ka Mandap’
- Gained firsthand insight into the community-based tourism model
To mark World Tourism Week (September 21–27), a ‘Rural and Tribal Tourism Workshop and Field Visit’ was organized at the Mudhouse complex in Gram Panchayat Thadpathra. The event aimed to help students understand the potential of rural and tribal tourism and familiarize them with local culture. Ninety students from the Department of Tourism Management at Indira Gandhi National Tribal University (IGNTU), Amarkantak, participated in the program.
- Students Discover a New Tourism Experience Amidst Nature
During the program, students did more than just visit tourist spots; they gained firsthand insight into the natural and cultural environment of Thadpathra. They trekked from the Mudhouse complex—traversing dense forests and the natural surroundings of the Amravati Ganga river—via the Kamrapathra route to reach ‘Mai Ka Mandap.’
The lush greenery, the serene forest atmosphere, and the local natural setting served as a medium for students to develop a practical understanding of rural and tribal tourism. During the field visit, they learned how tourism activities can be developed while preserving natural resources and local culture.
- Gaining Insight into Baiga Culture and Traditions
During the field visit, students gained a close understanding of the Baiga tribe’s traditional lifestyle, living habits, cuisine, and the tradition of Godna (traditional tattooing). The Baiga community’s harmonious relationship with nature and their traditional knowledge offered students an opportunity to appreciate the uniqueness of tribal culture. Through interactions with the local community, students realized that tourism in tribal areas need not be limited to natural sites; instead, it can be developed into a richer experience by integrating local traditions, folk lifestyles, cuisine, art, and cultural heritage.
- Introduction to Local Cuisine
The Thadpathra Tourism Committee extended a warm welcome to the IGNTU students. Committee members introduced the students to traditional local dishes, allowing them to gain insight into the nuances of local cuisine and rural lifestyles.
The active participation of the local community demonstrated to the students that the role of locals in tourism extends beyond mere hospitality; they play a crucial part in enhancing the tourism experience by helping to preserve local culture, food, traditions, and natural resources.
- Insights into the Community-Based Tourism Model
During the event, Tourism Nodal Officer Dr. Rahul Gautam, Block Mission Manager (Rural Livelihood Mission) Mr. Abhishek Jaiswal, and Tourism Coordinator Mr. Harsh Soni briefed the students on the community-based tourism model.
The officials emphasized that active community participation is vital for tourism development in rural and tribal areas. Such involvement not only aids in preserving local culture and natural heritage but also strengthens the rural economy and creates opportunities for local employment and livelihoods.
Students were apprised of the potential for tourism development in rural and tribal regions, the optimal use of local resources, the importance of community participation, and various aspects of responsible tourism.
- A Practical Dimension to Tourism Education
Organized to mark World Tourism Week, this field visit provided students with an opportunity to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge of tourism management and real-world scenarios. Through direct interaction with the natural environment, tribal culture, and the local community, students gained a practical understanding of the potential inherent in rural and tribal tourism.
The program was conducted under the guidance of Dr. Prashant Singh (Head of the Tourism Management Department), Dr. Rohit Ravindra Borlikar, Dr. Jaiprakash Narayana, and Dr. Dinesh Kumar Paraste. Members of the Thadpathra Tourism Committee actively participated in the event. Thadpathra Emerges as a Hub for Learning and Experience
Organized as part of World Tourism Week, this event in Thadpathra served as an initiative that brought together tourism education, nature, tribal culture, and the local community on a single platform. Ninety students gained firsthand insight into the uniqueness of Baiga culture, the beauty of the natural surroundings, and the concept of community-based tourism.
Such events can prove valuable in identifying the tourism potential of rural and tribal areas while respectfully integrating local culture and traditions with tourism.