By Ritu Makhija
The Travel Operators for Tigers (TOFT) 2024 awards night was unforgettable! What made it particularly touching was the participation of Pardi village girls. Hearing their stories was nothing short of powerful. As part of Wildpines, they shared how their involvement had transformed their lives – from feeling helpless living in the Panna Tiger Reserve to discovering a newfound sense of empowerment.
This was the Pardi girls’ first time at an event of this scale, and their courage was evident. When they spoke, their voices resonated with such strength that they left the entire audience in awe. It was a moment that reminded us all of the profound impact of conservation action, not just on the environment, but on the lives of the people who live alongside it.
Winners and Runners up of the 7th TOFTigers Wildlife Tourism Awards 2024. Photo Courtesy: TOFT.
As part of TOFT’s commitment to recognising excellence in wildlife tourism, it hosted the 7th TOFTigers Wildlife Tourism Awards on December 6, 2024. This event celebrated innovation and collaboration in sustainable wildlife tourism and featured thought-provoking discussions on the future of nature-based tourism.
A compelling keynote address by Jose Louise, CEO of the Wildlife Trust of India, captivated the audience. He emphasised the crucial link between wildlife conservation and the future of tourism, illustrating his point with a powerful anecdote. Recalling a local woman’s remark, “What is Kanha without tigers?” he left the audience reflecting deeply on the intrinsic value of conservation.
TOFT is more than just an organisation; it’s a global alliance committed to saving nature through the collective efforts of governments, communities, and visitors. Founded by Julian Matthews (Founder and Ambassador) and Vishal Singh (Co-Founder and Director), it has become a changemaker in the tourism and conservation space. By working with governments, the private sector, and local communities, it advocates for, plans, supports, and funds the protection and rewilding of natural wilderness, especially tiger habitats, to create sustainable, positive outcomes for all.
It began as a campaign to curb unchecked, profit-driven tourism that was harming ecosystems. With a mission to balance tourism and conservation, it has since grown into a powerful force for sustainable travel that empowers local communities and champions conservation. While the journey was challenging initially, its unwavering commitment and strategic initiatives have positioned it as a leader in transforming tourism in ecologically sensitive areas.
One of its core goals is to reform tourism in fragile ecosystems. To achieve this, it has partnered with accommodation providers, tour operators, and conservationists to establish best practices for responsible tourism. The Best Practices Toolkit (https://www.toftigers.org/best-practice/introduction/) was created to provide businesses with easy-to-follow strategies and real-world case studies, all aimed at enhancing sustainability in tourism.
In 2024, TOFT took a major step forward with a large-scale training programme in Kaziranga, collaborating with the Assam Forest Department, the Kaziranga Tiger Reserve, The Corbett Foundation, Aranyak, the Assam Skill Development Mission, and the Wildlife Institute of India. The programme aimed to upskill guides, safari drivers, and mahouts, enhancing their ability to deliver superior wildlife experiences while prioritising conservation ethics.
Focused on key areas such as wildlife guide responsibilities, visitor safety, hygiene, grooming, and safari management, the sessions provided participants with the necessary skills to enrich visitor experiences without compromising conservation values. The programme was led by Ratna Singh, a seasoned wilderness hospitality expert.
TOFT has also expanded Travelife’s reach in India. This European certification for tour operators offers sustainability management tools to help businesses meet stringent environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria, promoting more sustainable practices across the industry. TOFT’s commitment extends beyond wildlife conservation to community well-being. In February 2025, they organised the Kanha Eye Camp, in partnership with the Kanha Tiger Reserve and MGM Eye Institute, offering free eye care services to underserved rural communities.
Pardhi girls taking the centre stage at the 7th TOFTigers Wildlife Tourism Awards 2024, sharing their story and experiences. Photo Courtesy: TOFT.
The TOFT Awards also featured two insightful panel discussions – one on how wildlife tourism can drive conservation, and another on the future of nature-based tourism, sparking important conversations and providing actionable insights for the industry.
Looking ahead, TOFT’s mission is clear: drive transformative change in wildlife and nature tourism. With 20 years of success behind it, it envisions a future where tourism is a force for good – preserving nature, empowering communities, and ensuring that the wonders of the wild endure for future generations.
