Responsible tourism is shaped by individuals whose work creates meaningful, long-term impact for communities and the environment. At RTSOI, we believe that recognising such leadership is essential to encouraging a more sustainable future for tourism across India.
It is with great pride that RTSOI celebrates the recognition of Mr. Peerzada Faiyaz Ahmad, National Convenor of RTSOI, who was recently conferred the Distinguished Environmental Stewardship Award. The honour was presented during the inauguration of a Herbal Park and Aromatic, Herbal & Medicinal Plantation Drive at Khimber, Srinagar, jointly organised by the Nigeen Lake Conservation Organisation (NLCO) and Bilaliya Educational Institute (BEI).
Recognising Leadership That Drives Change
The award acknowledges Mr. Ahmad’s consistent contribution towards environmental conservation, community engagement, and responsible tourism in Kashmir. His work reflects the values that lie at the heart of RTSOI’s mission promoting tourism that protects natural ecosystems while creating positive social and economic impact for local communities.
While this recognition celebrates an individual’s efforts, it also reinforces the growing importance of sustainability as a guiding principle for the tourism industry.
A Collective Commitment to Sustainability
The event brought together environmentalists, educators, government officials, tourism stakeholders, and students with a shared vision of promoting environmental awareness through practical action.
The inauguration of the Herbal Park and plantation drive created a living space dedicated to biodiversity conservation, environmental education, and the preservation of indigenous medicinal and aromatic plants. Initiatives like these demonstrate how collaboration between institutions, communities, and tourism professionals can create lasting environmental value.
Advancing the Vision of Responsible Tourism
As National Convenor of RTSOI, Mr. Peerzada Faiyaz Ahmad has consistently championed responsible tourism practices that balance destination growth with environmental protection and community participation.
His leadership reflects the broader vision that RTSOI advocates across the country, one where tourism becomes a force for conservation, cultural preservation, and inclusive development. Through awareness initiatives, stakeholder engagement, and sustainable tourism advocacy, he has helped strengthen conversations around responsible travel within the industry.
Inspiring the Next Generation
One of the most encouraging aspects of the event was the active participation of students and young environmental enthusiasts. Their involvement highlighted the importance of nurturing environmental consciousness from an early stage and encouraging future leaders to actively contribute towards conservation.
For RTSOI, inspiring future generations remains a key pillar of responsible tourism, ensuring sustainability becomes a shared responsibility rather than an individual effort.
Celebrating Responsible Tourism Leadership
Recognition such as the Distinguished Environmental Stewardship Award reminds us that responsible tourism is driven by people who lead with purpose and inspire meaningful change.
RTSOI congratulates Mr. Peerzada Faiyaz Ahmad on this well-deserved honour. His achievement reflects the values that continue to strengthen the responsible tourism movement in India and serves as an inspiration for tourism professionals committed to building destinations that benefit both people and the planet.