Community based Sustainable Tourism Development - A tool for fostering and promoting peace: A case study of Odisha, India.

Abstract

Much has been analyzed, discussed and written about tourism, its interdisciplinary approach and multidimensional concepts, but one of the most significant roles that the tourism has been playing for a while now and which has not come into the limelight is the fostering and promotion of peace. Tourism is regarded as one of the most pioneering sectors, and has not only made socio economic contributions but also created a harmonious platform for all to exchange, share, and understand each other better in order to gain co-operation, mutual understanding, a sense of belonging, and integrity. In the backdrop of a peaceful society where justice, equality, human rights and prosperity stand firm, this is in part due to the remarkable contributions of tourism in assimilating people into a common platform of thought. Society and its people have witnessed socio economic development, the creation of equal opportunities for everyone to live in, and sustainability which to a greater extent has been achieved due to the catalytic nature of tourism which in turn fosters and promotes a peaceful existence. This paper emphasizes and explores the role of tourism in enhancing peace through community based sustainable tourism development by interconnecting the environment, the local community, the tourists, and other important aspects .The paper cites some of the key examples of Odisha in terms of its community participation and their involvement in sustainable development initiatives leading to the harmonious inter-existence between locals and visitors.

Keywords

• Harmony
• community participation
• sustainability
• development
• India