Lighthouse Tourism in India

Syllabus :GS 3/Economy  

In News

India has 204 lighthouses, many of which are being reimagined as tourist destinations.

Lighthouse Tourism

• Lighthouse tourism involves transforming lighthouses and their surrounding areas into vibrant tourist attractions.
•  These structures, often located in scenic coastal or island settings, offer visitors a unique combination of natural beauty, maritime history, and recreational opportunities.

The Potential of Lighthouse Tourism in India

• Strategic Locations: Many lighthouses are situated in breathtaking locations along India’s coastline or remote islands, offering panoramic sea views.
• Cultural Importance: Some lighthouses date back centuries and are near UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Mahabalipuram in Tamil Nadu or other prominent cultural landmarks.
• Adventure and Leisure: These sites can host activities such as trekking, boating, and water sports, appealing to adventure seekers.
• Economic Impact: Developing lighthouse tourism can generate hospitality, transportation, and handicraft employment while boosting local economies.

Steps Taken By The Indian Government To Boost Lighthouse Tourism

• The Central Government is actively promoting lighthouse tourism as a part of its broader Maritime India Vision (MIV) 2030 and Amrit Kaal vision 2047 to enhance India’s cultural heritage and maritime legacy.
• Indian Lighthouse Festival Series:  The 1st Indian Lighthouse Festival, “Bharatiya Prakash Stambh Utsav”, was inaugurated in September, 2023 by the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways in Goa.
  • It has been held annually since then, serving as a key platform to celebrate and promote lighthouse tourism.
• Sagarmala Programme: The government’s commitment to lighthouse tourism is also evident from its efforts under the Sagarmala Programme and its focus on fostering partnerships with private stakeholders.
  • It exemplifies integrated development, blending infrastructure growth, sustainability, and community welfare to drive India’s maritime and economic progress.

Recent Developments:

• In February 2024, PM Modi dedicated 75 lighthouses with tourist facilities across 10 states and UTs.
• ₹60 crore invested in the development of these sites, which now include museums, amphitheaters, parks, etc.
• Over 16 lakh visitors in 2023-24, up by 400% from 2014, with 10 lakh visitors already in 2024-25.

Forward-looking strategies:

• Sustainable Development: Emphasis on eco-friendly practices to protect fragile coastal ecosystems while promoting responsible tourism.
• Integration with Coastal Circuits: Lighthouses are incorporated into broader coastal tourism itineraries to enhance their appeal.
• Awareness Campaigns: Digital initiatives are being launched to showcase lighthouse destinations to domestic and international audiences.
• Skill Development: Training programs are being introduced to equip local communities with skills required for employment in hospitality and tourism-related sectors.

Conclusion:

• Lighthouse tourism blends heritage conservation with modern tourism, offering a unique visitor experience while contributing to local economies and community empowerment.
• Continued efforts under the Sagarmala Programme and with private stakeholder participation will further strengthen lighthouse tourism as a cornerstone of India’s tourism industry.

Source: PIB