Sustainable tourism is evolving as a key approach to balancing economic growth, environmental conservation, and community well-being. Over the last ten years, eco-certifications have significantly advanced the field. This includes responsible tourism policies and community-led initiatives that promote cultural preservation and economic inclusivity. Advances in green technology, such as renewable energy use in hotels and low-impact transportation, further support sustainability efforts. However, several challenges hinder widespread adoption. Overtourism strains natural and cultural resources, while inconsistent policy enforcement and limited stakeholder cooperation result in slow progress. India can highlight its intangible cultural assets, such as dance, music, festivals, and culinary diversity, attracting global tourists interested in meaningful engagement. Simultaneously, digitalisation is greatly helping to improve the sustainability and accessibility of travel experiences. Emerging digital technologies – such as virtual reality, augmented reality, and online historic tours – allow the travel industry to lower environmental effects while aiding sustainable development. Furthermore, enabled by AI-powered recommendation systems and the Internet of Things (IoT), are tailored visitor experiences matching with environmental preservation. Emphasising how the combination of cultural tourism and sustainable digital techniques might drive change in the area, this study investigates the present trends, difficulties, and prospects in Jhargram’s tourism industry. The study employs analytical instruments like cluster analysis, the weighted sum method (WSM), and the tourism potential index to gain a deeper understanding. Ultimately, the study proposes a strategy to position Jhargram District as a leader in sustainable and cultural tourism, thereby fostering economic growth while preserving cultural heritage and significantly minimising environmental impact.
Hatial et al. (Sat,) studied this question.