Coca-Cola India Foundation Felicitated by Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board for Driving Clean Tourism

~Shri Mohan Yadav honours the Foundation for its contribution to sustainable waste management and community-led tourism across national parks in Madhya Pradesh~

Bhopal, June 23^rd 2025: Reinforcing a shared commitment to sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship, Anandana – The Coca-Cola India Foundation has been honoured by the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board as a CSR Partner for its pivotal role in the successful implementation of Project Clean Destination. The felicitation took place during the ‘Gramin Rang Paryatan Sang’ programme, held at Kushabhau Thakre auditorium, Bhopal, in the esteemed presence of the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Shri Mohan Yadav, senior officials from the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board and the members of the state government.

The Hon’ble Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh felicitated the Foundation for its sustained efforts in advancing responsible waste management and promoting clean tourism practices across ecologically sensitive regions in the state’s national parks. The award recognises Anandana’s continued support in building structured, community-led waste management systems that contribute to long-term environmental impact and enhance the visitor experience.

Recognizing the project, Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla IAS, Principal Secretary, Tourism Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, said, “Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board remains steadfast in its commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism. With the growing number of visitors, ensuring clean, green, and safe destinations has become more crucial than ever. Through the ‘Project Clean Destination’ initiative-launched under the Responsible Tourism Mission, we are working closely with local communities, private partners and local stakeholders to promote sustainable waste management, improve sanitation and foster a culture of environmental stewardship. This collaborative effort not only protects our natural heritage but also strengthens Madhya Pradesh’s identity as a model for cleanest state and pioneer in responsible tourism in India.”

Speaking on the occasion, Rajiv Gupta, Director, The Coca-Cola India Foundation, said, “This recognition marks a proud milestone in our journey with the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, which began three years ago with a shared vision for cleaner, and more sustainable national parks. Project Clean Destination exemplifies the long-term vision to create structured waste management systems that protect ecologically sensitive areas while uplifting local communities. As we scale these efforts across key tourist destinations, such acknowledgment reinforces our resolve to build replicable community-led models for sustainable tourism across India.”

Launched in 2022 under the Responsible Tourism Mission, Project Clean Destination is an initiative by the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board to advance sustainable tourism across the state. Implemented with technical expertise from our NGO partner, Society For Advancement In Agriculture, Horticulture and Allied Sectors (SAAHAS), the initiative promotes environmental sustainability at key tourist destinations through close collaboration with local communities, administrative bodies, and private partners.

As part of this initiative, significant efforts have been made at sites such as Panna and Bandhavgarh National Parks, including the setup of Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs), promotion of source segregation, and training of Swachh Mitras (waste workers). Integrated into Coca-Cola India’s flagship campaign, Maidaan Saaf, the initiative also raises awareness about responsible waste practices and fosters long-term community participation.