14/09/2026
World Tourism Awards 2026
IITTM Bhubaneswar
The annual World Tourism Awards launched by IITTM Bhubaneswar provide an opportunity to showcase and promote, encourage and reward tourism excellence. It also recognizes outstanding contributions in different areas to community and society. Contributions emphasize the awardee's concern for the common good, willingness to give time and comfort, and the ability to draw together varied resources to solve problems, rather than only technical competence.
Extremely privileged to congratulate the awardee in the Field of Tourism for 2026:
Smt. Anshu Pragyan Das
DFO, Hirakud Wildlife Division
Dept. of Forest, Environment & Climate Change
Govt. of Odisha
Heartiest Congratulations!
Smt. Anshu Pragyan Das has been spearheading a progressive model of community-led conservation and responsible ecotourism, particularly in Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary. Her initiatives have brought local communities into the heart of conservation by creating livelihoods as nature guides, safari drivers, boat operators and hospitality providers, while placing a strong emphasis on women’s participation and empowerment. Initiatives such as the community-managed homestays at Dhodrokusum, the women’s anti-poaching squad, zero-plastic practices, nature trails, birding and experiential tourism have strengthened both conservation and visitor engagement. Her approach beautifully demonstrates how wildlife protection, sustainable tourism and community livelihoods can work together, making Debrigarh an inspiring model for responsible ecotourism in Odisha.
The awards ceremony will be organized on 25th September 2026 at Indian Institute of Tourism & Travel Management Bhubaneswar campus.