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Context

• Despite multiple calls from the Union Tourism Ministry, the Swachhata Green Leaf Rating system scheme has only seen a pilot project in Jammu and Kashmir, with no other states opting for it.

Swachhata Green Leaf Rating System

• The Swachhata Green Leaf Rating system is a government initiative to ensure world-class hygiene and sanitation in the hospitality sector.
• Despite multiple calls from the Union Tourism Ministry, the scheme has only seen a pilot project in Jammu and Kashmir, with no other states opting for it.

Collaboration and Objectives:

• Launched in collaboration with the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation, the system aims to promote safe sanitation practices and prevent pollution in water bodies.
• It is designed to be implemented in all hospitality facilities, including hotels, lodges, homestays, 'Dharamshalas', and camps, based on compliance with guidelines.

Promotion of Good Practices:

• The initiative encourages hotels, resorts, and homestays to adopt good practices for improved sanitation facilities.
• This includes guidelines for feacal sludge management, solid waste segregation, and alternatives to single-use plastic.

Incentivizing Participation for Cleaner and More Sustainable Tourism:

• Due to the lack of participation, the government is considering incentivizing the scheme to encourage more states to adopt it.
• The focus is on rural areas for cleaner and more sustainable tourism practices.

Current Status and Future Prospects:

• As of February 13, 2024, the Swachhata Green Leaf Rating system has not been widely adopted.
• It has the potential to significantly improve hygiene and sanitation standards in the hospitality sector if implemented nationwide.

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