Ecotourism for Sustainable Development and Community Support in Manipur

This study examines the role of ecotourism in fostering sustainable economic development and inclusive community support in Manipur, a region known for its ecological diversity and indigenous cultural heritage. The primary objective is to assess how ecotourism can contribute to both environmental conservation and socio-economic upliftment of local communities. This paper emphasizes ecotourism as a strategic tool for achieving long-term sustainability. The research is based entirely on secondary data sources using existing literature, including academic literature, policy documents, tourism reports, government publications, and case studies. These sources are critically reviewed to identify patterns and trends associated with ecotourism in Manipur. Findings suggest that ecotourism holds significant potential to generate employment, support small-scale local enterprises, and promote the conservation of natural and cultural resources. However, structural challenges remain, including poor infrastructure, lack of community training, and limited policy coordination. The uneven distribution of benefits also poses a risk to equitable development. The study concludes that ecotourism, if properly planned and managed, can serve as a viable pathway toward sustainable transformation in Manipur. Policy recommendations include strengthening community participation, enhancing infrastructure, and promoting locally driven ecotourism models to ensure inclusive and resilient development.