On Tuesday 16, 2025 the Centre for Sustainable Tourism for the North Eastern Region (NER) was inaugurated at Assam Don Bosco University (ADBU), Sonapur, Guwahati. The centre has been launched under the Business Collaborative Initiative on Sustainable Development, Climate Action and Inclusivity project, in collaboration with the Centre for Responsible Business (CRB), and French hospitality group Accor-Novotel Guwahati. As part of a broader initiative to promote inclusive growth, sustainability, and climate action in the Northeast region, the establishment of this centre is considered a significant step toward strengthening collaboration with businesses on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This initiative is seen as a notable move towards reinforcing partnerships with businesses on the SDGs, while simultaneously advancing inclusive growth, sustainability, and climate action in the Northeast region.

The Northeast, one of India’s most diverse regions in terms of biodiversity and cultural heritage, holds immense potential for responsible tourism and livelihood generation. However, the region continues to face challenges in infrastructure, skills development, and market access.

Earlier this year, during a consultation organized by CRB in Guwahati, emphasis was laid on the need for community-led, sustainable business models in sectors like tourism, textiles, and agri-biodiversity.

The newly established centre will serve as a hub for research, training, capacity building, and business-community engagement. Its goal is to integrate local custodians of biodiversity and culture with global sustainability frameworks, ensuring tourism development that is inclusive, equitable, and environmentally responsible.