The Maharashtra Leopard Management Plan (2018) was formulated by the Maharashtra Forest Department to address rising human-leopard conflicts, habitat loss, and declining prey populations. Using secondary data from official reports, scientific studies, and wildlife organizations, this paper analyzes the objectives, strategies, and outcomes of the plan. Results show improvements in rescue operations, awareness campaigns, and population monitoring. However, persistent challenges include habitat fragmentation, delayed compensation, and insufficient field-level training. The study concludes that integrating community-based approaches, GIS technology, and sustainable land management is essential for effective leopard conservation and coexistence in Maharashtra.

Agrotourism has become one of the most dynamic areas of rural development, merging agriculture, culture, and tourism into a unified experience that benefits both farmers and visitors. In India, where agriculture continues to support a majority of the population, agrotourism presents an important opportunity for income diversification, cultural preservation, and rural revitalization. This paper uses a narrative review approach to synthesize existing scholarship and explore how human stories, lived experiences, and community interaction shape agrotourism practices. The review reveals that agrotourism has evolved from simple farm visits to immersive, educational, and community-centered models that promote sustainability, entrepreneurship, and social cohesion. Furthermore, it identifies major challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, lack of training, limited digital presence, and insufficient policy alignment. The paper proposes a forward-looking agenda emphasizing institutional support, technological integration, environmental safeguards, and community empowerment. By placing narratives at the center of analysis, this review contributes to academic discourse by highlighting the human and cultural dimensions of agrotourism, areas often overlooked in economics-centered studies. The concluding section outlines practical strategies and future research directions to strengthen India’s agrotourism ecosystem and enhance its contribution to sustainable rural development.

The historical, religious, and cultural importance of the Nashik district is unique, particularly in the context of Maharashtra's tourism. Most of the forts in Maharashtra, located in Nashik district in the northern part of the district, have been studied in this research article. The research article aims to examine the forts in the northern part of the Nashik district. These historical tourist spots have the potential to attract a large number of tourists. Though the road connectivity is comparatively good, other elements like quantity and distribution of hotels, awareness among the administrators and host community, lack of publicity and marketing are responsible for fewer tourism activities in this part. This paper is based on both secondary and primary sources, including field visits, surveys, and interview questionnaires. Efforts are taken to identify the challenges faced by tourists arriving from the Forts of the Study area. The main objective of the paper is to highlight the historical tourism potential of Nashik & its Challenges

This study presents a year-long assessment (January–December 2024) of the water quality of the Mula River in Pune District, Maharashtra. Building upon previous findings from 2023, the research evaluates seasonal variations and spatial differences in key physicochemical parameters—Temperature, pH, Electrical Conductivity (EC), Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Dissolved Oxygen (DO), and Total Hardness—across five sampling sites: Mulshi Dam, Balewadi, MES, Vishrantwadi, and Sangamwadi Bridge. The results reveal continued organic pollution, particularly in the urban and downstream sections of the river. While Mulshi Dam water remained within acceptable limits, significant deterioration was observed at Sangamwadi, where BOD and COD values exceeded permissible standards. Comparatively, the 2024 results show marginal increases in BOD and COD levels at most sites relative to 2023, indicating rising anthropogenic pressure and insufficient wastewater treatment. The findings underscore the urgent need for stricter pollution control measures, regular monitoring, and community participation in river conservation.

The mismanagement of urban water resources presents a serious challenge, particularly in densely populated cities with high individual water consumption and substantial waste production. Urban water sources—such as rivers, lakes, tanks, and groundwater—are frequently depleted, polluted, or damaged. Rapid urbanisation and industrial development have intensified this problem, resulting in a significant decline in the water resources of Pune city. The growing urban population, along with increased demand for domestic and industrial water use, has led to reduced water availability and deteriorating water quality. One of the key water bodies, the Mula River, which flows through Pune, is severely polluted with untreated sewage and industrial waste. This study aims to evaluate the level of organic pollution in the Mula River. Over a six-month period, water samples were collected and analysed for various parameters, including dissolved oxygen, total hardness, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), and chemical oxygen demand (COD). Additional factors such as pH, temperature, and electrical conductivity (EC) were also examined. The results reveal high concentrations of organic pollutants in the river, with notably elevated BOD and COD levels at four of the five sampling locations. Moreover, increased values of dissolved oxygen, total hardness, and EC were also recorded at these sites.

Ecotourism has emerged as a vital tool for promoting biodiversity conservation while supporting sustainable livelihoods among local communities. This study explores the interrelationship between ecotourism development and biodiversity conservation, emphasizing how responsible tourism practices contribute to the protection of natural habitats and species. Using data from [insert study area or years if available, e.g., 2019–2025], the research examines trends in tourist inflow, revenue generation, and conservation investment to assess the ecological and socio-economic impacts of ecotourism initiatives. The findings reveal that well-managed ecotourism fosters environmental awareness, generates financial resources for conservation programs, and creates livelihood opportunities that reduce pressure on natural resources. However, challenges such as inadequate regulation, over-tourism, and lack of local participation can undermine these benefits. The paper concludes that integrating community-based approaches, conservation education, and sustainable planning is essential for maximizing ecotourism’s potential to conserve biodiversity while ensuring long-term socio-economic resilience.

Coastal tourism has emerged as a major driver of economic growth in Sindhudurg district, Maharashtra, owing to its rich natural resources, cultural heritage, and recreational attractions. Despite its vast tourism potential, the district faces various challenges, including infrastructural limitations, environmental degradation, seasonal fluctuations, and inadequate policy implementation. This study examines the challenges and opportunities of coastal tourism development in Sindhudurg through a mixed-methods research design comprising field surveys, interviews, secondary data analysis, and spatial assessment. Primary data were collected from residents, tourism stakeholders, tourists, and government officials using structured questionnaires and interviews. Secondary data on tourist inflow from 2015–2025 reveal fluctuations caused by economic changes, limited connectivity, and major disruptions such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The study evaluates the influence of government interventions including Sindhudurg’s designation as a tourism district, Chipi Airport development, and coastal regulation policies on tourism prospects. Findings indicate that sustainable tourism avenues such as marine ecotourism, community-based tourism, cultural tourism, and adventure activities hold strong potential for long-term development. However, infrastructural gaps, uneven economic benefits, and environmental pressures continue to hinder sustainable growth. The study highlights the need for integrated planning, enhanced community participation, and stronger policy implementation to promote balanced and sustainable coastal tourism in Sindhudurg.

Maharashtra is one of India’s richest cultural regions, and its Buddhist heritage forms a particularly significant part of this legacy. The state has the highest number of ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves in India, reflecting a vibrant monastic and artistic tradition that flourished from the 3rd century BCE to the 7th century CE. Iconic sites such as Ajanta, Ellora, Karla, Bhaja, Kanheri and Junnar illustrate the development of chaityas, viharas, stupas and murals, and highlight Maharashtra’s historical role along major trade routes linking the coast with the Deccan. These cave complexes attract international visitors, especially from East and Southeast Asia, as well as large numbers of domestic tourists and academic groups. Despite their importance, issues like overcrowding, limited connectivity and conservation challenges persist. With improved infrastructure, heritage interpretation and sustainable tourism planning, Maharashtra has the potential to become a leading global centre for Buddhist tourism and cultural appreciation.

Maharashtra, India’s second-most populous state, is emerging as a significant center for medical tourism—extending beyond clinical care into nature-based wellness tourism. This research examines the state’s major ecological and geographical regions—hill stations, coastal zones, forested landscapes, and thermal spring areas—and their potential contribution to recuperative medical stays, eco-therapeutic services, and wellness tourism. Drawing on government tourism policy, ecotourism literature, and institutional case studies (e.g., Kaivalyadhama, Malvan–Achara), the study identifies key opportunities, infrastructural and regulatory challenges, and strategic directions for integrating health tourism with natural environments. A sustainable development framework is proposed for promoting and accrediting nature-based medical tourism destinations in Maharashtra.

Health tourism involves the movement of individuals across borders to seek medical treatment or wellness therapies. India has emerged as a leading destination in this field due to its affordable healthcare services, skilled medical professionals, advanced hospitals, and rich traditional systems including Ayurveda, Yoga and other AYUSH branches. This paper analyses the evolution, market drivers, economic impact, policy framework, challenges, and futuristic opportunities of health tourism in India. A qualitative methodology based on secondary data sources such as government reports, academic literature and industry publications is used. The findings highlight India’s competitive strengths and emerging prospects, while addressing issues related to regulation, ethics, quality assurance and infrastructure. The study concludes with recommendations to strengthen India’s position as a sustainable and holistic global health hub.

Groundwater is the primary source of domestic and irrigation supply in the semi-arid, basalt-dominated landscape of Ahilyanagar (Ahmednagar) district, Maharashtra. Increasing abstraction, expansion of borewells, and irregular monsoon patterns have intensified groundwater stress across several administrative blocks. This study provides a hydrogeological assessment of the district using secondary data from the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB), including long-term water level records, aquifer characteristics, and recharge–discharge estimates. The analysis indicates persistent decline in both pre- and post-monsoon groundwater levels, particularly in over-exploited and critical blocks where extraction exceeds annual recharge. Variations in aquifer properties, controlled by the weathered and fractured Deccan basalt, further influence storage potential and recharge efficiency. The findings highlight the growing imbalance between groundwater demand and availability, underscoring the need for aquifer-based management, demand-side regulation, and enhanced recharge interventions. This study demonstrates the utility of CGWB datasets for assessing groundwater sustainability in semi-arid hard-rock regions.

This study examines the impact of cultural heritage tourism on community livelihoods in Pune city. It examines how cultural heritage sites and traditional practices contribute to the economic and social well-being of local communities. The study adopts a qualitative and survey-based approach to gain in-depth insights from those directly involved in the cultural heritage tourism sector. The researcher has visited 15 cultural heritage sites and conducted interviews of the respondents accordingly. Participants, including local artisans, small business owners, tour guides, and heritage workers, responded structured questionnaires. In addition, further data were supported by participant responses and document analysis, which added significance to the depth of understanding of how cultural heritage tourism has impacted community livelihoods in Pune city. The findings revealed that cultural heritage tourism strengthened livelihoods through cultural empowerment and employment generation in handicrafts, hospitality, and guiding services. On the other hand, if it is not managed properly, this type of tourism certainly reflect negative consequences such as neglecting, degrading, and interfering with community values and social relations, leading to the destruction of cultural heritage.

I studied the linear morphometric characteristics of the Mula–Pavana River basin to understand how its drainage network is organized and what that means for runoff and erosion. Using Strahler’s method and ArcGIS, I mapped 93 stream segments from 1st to 4th order and measured stream number, stream length, mean stream length, bifurcation ratio, drainage density, and length of overland flow. The basin area is 1297.71 km² with elevations ranging from 534 to 1241 m. Total stream length is 422.65 km and mean stream length is 105.66 km. The average bifurcation ratio is 4.87, suggesting limited structural control, while a low drainage density (0.32 km/km²) and short overland flow (0.16 km/km²) point to gentle slopes and higher infiltration. Overall, the dominance of 1st‑order streams indicates a relatively youthful drainage network with potential for rapid runoff concentration. These results provide a basic framework for future watershed management and more detailed hydrological studies

This research paper examines the newly opened Napne Waterfall Glass Bridge in Sindhudurg, Maharashtra. The study reviews its socio-economic benefits, environmental and safety challenges, and necessary management recommendations. The Napne Waterfall has the potential to become an important tourism attraction in the future. For this study, secondary sources such as media reports and site-descriptive information were used, along with the researcher’s own field visit to observe visitor management, safety, environmental impacts, and access infrastructure. Practical measures have been suggested to support sustainable tourism and local livelihoods.

Tourism constitutes one of India’s most dynamic and multidimensional economic sectors, contributing substantially to employment generation, regional development, and foreign-exchange earnings. Using official statistics from the India Tourism Data Compendium 2025 (Ministry of Tourism, Government of India), this paper analyzes the comprehensive performance of India’s tourism industry with a focus on inbound, outbound, and domestic segments during the post-pandemic period (2019–2024). Quantitative comparison and descriptive statistics reveal India’s robust recovery trajectory: inbound arrivals reached 20.57 million international tourists, outbound departures 30.89 million, and domestic tourist visits nearly 2.95 billion in 2024. Foreign-exchange earnings climbed to US $ 35.02 billion, underscoring tourism’s pivotal macro-economic role. The findings demonstrate that India has re-emerged as a globally competitive destination supported by strong domestic mobility, expanding air infrastructure, and policy reforms. The study concludes with recommendations for sustainable and inclusive tourism growth aligned with India’s long-term developmental goals.

The global tourism sector is undergoing a profound paradigm shift driven by systemic crises, accelerated digitalization, and intensifying socio-ecological pressures. Traditional linear development models—such as Butler’s Tourism Area Life Cycle—prove insufficient in addressing contemporary challenges related to equity, governance failures, environmental degradation, and technological disruptions. This paper proposes the Integrated Framework for Resilient and Responsible Tourism Development (R2D), synthesizing critical theory, smart technology adoption, and adaptive socio-ecological governance. Drawing upon foundational and critical tourism theories, the paper identifies structural limitations in current sustainability approaches, especially the insufficient integration of community empowerment, digital accountability, and regenerative principles. The role of digital transformation, including AI, IoT, XR/Metaverse applications, and smart heritage systems, is examined as a driver of resilience and operational transparency. An empirical illustration from Maharashtra, India, highlights the tensions between rapid economic aspirations, ecological fragility, and marginalized community impacts in the Western Ghats. Building on these insights, the R2D framework mandates equity-centric governance, technology-enabled monitoring, and regenerative development principles. Methodologically, the paper advocates for Sequential Mixed Methods Research and advanced modeling (e.g., SEM, TAM3) to validate complex socio-technical relationships. The study contributes a holistic and actionable framework to guide policymakers, researchers, and practitioners toward accountable, inclusive, and technologically empowered tourism futures.

Tourism is a broad field that encompasses a variety of factors, primarily considering the geographical location of different places, the local environment, cultural factors, and the preferences of tourists. Tourism is one of the rapidly growing sectors contributing to regional development, employment generation. Kolhapur district of Maharashtra possesses a rich combination of natural, religious, cultural, and historical resources, many of tourist places are neglected. This study aims to assess the potential tourist places of Kolhapur district, highlighting their current status, infrastructural facilities, and future prospects. The study is based on primary and secondary data. The study identifies key opportunities and challenges in transforming Kolhapur district into a diversified tourism destination. The findings indicate that while Kolhapur district has a well-developed core tourism circuit, significant potential exists in the district, if adequate infrastructure, promotion, and sustainable management strategies are implemented.

Agritourism in Maharashtra has emerged as a significant livelihood diversification strategy for farming communities, offering supplementary income and fostering rural development. While the sector contributes positively to sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation, it also poses potential ecological risks when implemented without adequate regulatory oversight. Effective tourism strategies of a developing country can create revenue generating opportunities and provide sustainable employment for semi-skilled or unskilled workers. Effective tourism development demands a holistic mindset and a diverse investment strategy that spans the entire industry. Within this framework, this paper scrutinizes the double-edged impacts of agritourism simultaneously stimulates rural economic vitality, safeguards invaluable cultural patrimony, and enhances visitor literacy regarding agricultural practices. On the other hand, challenges such as increased environmental tracks, over tourism, and potential interruption of local traditions are discussed as well. This article reviews recent empirical studies, regional assessments, and sectoral analyses to highlight the environmental risks associated with agritourism across different Indian contexts, and argues for policy, planning, and regulatory reforms to minimize ecological damage.

Narsobawadi, located in the western region of Maharashtra, is a prominent religious destination known for its spiritual significance and cultural heritage. The continuous influx of pilgrims and tourists has led to increasing environmental pressures, including waste generation, water pollution, and strain on local resources. This study aims to explore and promote environmentally sustainable tourism practices at Narsoba Wadi by assessing current tourism patterns, community involvement, and ecological challenges. Using a mixed-method approach that includes field observations, surveys, and stakeholder interviews, the research identifies key areas where sustainable strategies can be implemented. These include waste management systems, eco-friendly infrastructure development, renewable energy use, and community-based tourism initiatives. The findings highlight the importance of integrating local participation and traditional ecological knowledge in planning and management to achieve long-term sustainability. The study concludes that adopting an environmentally sustainable tourism model not only preserves the ecological integrity of Narsoba Wadi but also enhances visitor experiences and supports the socio-economic well-being of the local community.

Eco-tourism and community-based tourism (CBT) have emerged as powerful tools for sustainable tourism development in India. The Government of India and various state governments have introduced policies, schemes, and institutional mechanisms to promote environmentally responsible tourism and empower local communities. This research paper examines key policies, evaluates their impact, and highlights the geographical dimensions of eco-tourism and CBT. Using secondary data, policy documents, and regional case studies, this paper analyses the effectiveness of initiatives such as the Swadesh Darshan Scheme, PRASHAD, Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) regulations, Wildlife Tourism policies, and State Eco-tourism Boards. Findings reveal that while government interventions have significantly improved infrastructure, conservation efforts, and livelihood opportunities, challenges remain in policy implementation, community participation, and monitoring. The paper concludes with suggestions for strengthening sustainable tourism through inclusive governance, capacity building, and geospatial monitoring.

Population distribution is the pattern of where people live on Earth's surface, and it is highly uneven, with a majority living in a small percentage of the land area. Factors like climate, resources, and economic opportunities cause some areas to be densely populated, while others are sparsely populated. The concentration of people is influenced by geographic, economic, and social factors, resulting in a pattern where more people live in the Northern Hemisphere, especially in mid-latitudes and low-elevation areas. Present paper reveals the analysis of distribution as well as density of total population in Beed district.

Tourism in Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani has grown steadily because of their scenic beauty, pleasant climate, and cultural importance. This paper examines how seasonal peaks such as summer holidays, winter festivals, and the strawberry season influence tourist inflow. The study is based only on secondary data from government reports, municipal records, and tourism publications. Results show that summer and winter are the busiest seasons, while the monsoon attracts a smaller but unique group of eco‑tourists. Seasonal peaks generate employment and revenue for local businesses but also create challenges like traffic congestion, sanitation issues, and shortages of accommodation. The discussion highlights the need for better planning, eco‑friendly tourism, and improved facilities to balance growth with sustainability.

Shaniwar Wada mostly attracts local people — about 1,260,800 visits in 2024, with roughly 60% from Pune district, 30% from other parts of Maharashtra, 8% from other Indian states, and only 2% foreign tourists. This pattern shows the site acts more like a city landmark and recreational spot than an international tourist draw, which fits with lower foreign visitation in the Mumbai ASI Circle and the popularity of nearby UNESCO coastal sites. The numbers come from standard tourism methods (ticket categories, exit surveys, accommodation sampling) adapted from Ministry of Tourism and IITTM guidance. Overall, the findings suggest managers should focus on local engagement, repeat‑visitor programming, and infrastructure for peak local use, while still keeping services suitable for occasional out‑of‑state and foreign visitors.

Maval Tahsil, located in the Pune district of Maharashtra, is a region rich in historical and cultural heritage, with numerous forts such as Lohagad, Visapur, Tikona, and Tung that stand as symbols of the Maratha era. The growing interest in historical tourism has significantly influenced the socio-economic landscape of rural areas within Maval. This study examines how heritage-based tourism contributes to rural development through employment generation, infrastructure improvement, and the promotion of local arts and culture. It also explores challenges such as environmental degradation, commercialization, and inadequate tourism management. The findings highlight that sustainable historical tourism can serve as a powerful tool for inclusive rural growth if supported by proper planning, community participation, and government initiatives. Thus, preserving historical sites while enhancing tourism infrastructure can ensure balanced development and long-term benefits for the rural population of Maval Tahsil.

The researcher will understand how agro tourism is considered as a way of sustainable development. A continual Social and Economic deterioration has impacted rural communities. This paradigm of growth has become unsustainable from a social, cultural and economic point of view. Modern rural development trends underline that rational and organized utilization of agricultural resources, along with the enhancement of rural, cultural and naturalistic heritage. In this paper views the researcher investigates the studies on the status of Agro-tourism, studies on cash flow in agro-tourism and studies on problems and prospects of agro-tourism, the possibility of agro tourism as a driver of sustainable rural development. Researcher examined the prospect for sustainable development of Agro tourism in western Maharashtra.

The Solapur district in south-central Maharashtra is a region of significant religious, cultural, ecological, and industrial importance. It is home to heritage forts and temples, traditional textile crafts such as the Solapuri chaddar, major wetlands like Ujani/Bhigwan, and the prominent pilgrimage hub of Pandharpur. Rapid pilgrimage flows, seasonal tourism peaks, expanding leisure travel, and local development pressures have created both opportunities and sustainability challenges for the district. These include water pollution, waste generation, habitat disturbance, and infrastructure strain. This study evaluates key environmental and socio-economic issues related to tourism, synthesizes existing knowledge, and proposes evidence-based planning, governance, community participation, and technological strategies to promote sustainable tourism in Solapur district.

The present research focuses on the role of India’s tourism sector as a major source of foreign exchange earnings. The analysis reveals a consistent increase in foreign tourist arrivals and foreign exchange earnings between 2001 and 2019. However, the COVID-19 pandemic severely disrupted this growth trajectory, leading to a drastic fall in both tourist arrivals and earnings during 2020–2022. Foreign exchange earnings represent a significant component of a country’s economic strength and contribute directly to national development. Tourism, being one of the largest service industries in India, has been a crucial driver of this economic power. Before the pandemic, India recorded ₹6,61,21,166 crore in foreign exchange earnings in 2019. However, during the pandemic, foreign tourist arrivals declined sharply to 2.74 lakh in 2020, reducing earnings to just ₹50,136 crore. Despite these setbacks, India’s tourism sector still contributed around 5.8% to the national GDP in 2021, amounting to over ₹13 billion. This study highlights both the economic importance of tourism and the vulnerabilities exposed by the global pandemic.

Transportation networks play a crucial role in the spatial organisation and development of tourism. Connectivity, accessibility, and mobility directly influence tourist flows, the attractiveness of destinations, and the economic growth of emerging urban centres. Hinjawadi, located in western Pune, has transformed rapidly from a rural fringe village into a major technology corridor due to the establishment of the Rajiv Gandhi Infotech Park. This growth has given rise to business tourism, commercial activities, hospitality expansion, and increased intra-city travel. The present study analyses the transportation network of Hinjawadi and investigates its role in shaping tourism development within and around the region. Primary data from field surveys, GPS-based travel time tracking, and traffic volume counts were combined with secondary data from PMRDA, PCMC, and tourism reports. Network indices—Beta, Gamma, and Alpha—were used to assess connectivity, while accessibility was examined using time–distance analysis. Results indicate that Hinjawadi enjoys high regional connectivity through NH-48, the upcoming Pune Metro Line 3, and major road corridors, although internal congestion remains a major challenge. Improved transport facilities have strengthened business tourism, short-stay tourism, and recreational opportunities. The study concludes with recommendations for sustainable transport planning to enhance tourism potential and regional mobility.

Urban riverfront development has become a strategic component of sustainable urban planning and tourism enhancement in many rapidly growing cities across the world. Pune, one of Maharashtra’s leading metropolitan regions, is currently implementing the Mula–Mutha Riverfront Development Project (RFD) aimed at ecological rejuvenation, enhanced public spaces, tourism growth, and improved urban resilience. This research paper examines the significance of riverfront development along the Mula–Mutha rivers and evaluates its potential impacts on tourism in Pune. Using secondary data, policy documents, stakeholder reports, and academic studies, the paper analyzes existing conditions, ongoing interventions, socio-economic implications, and tourism prospects. The findings suggest that the project can significantly transform Pune’s tourism landscape by improving accessibility, recreation opportunities, cultural activity zones, and aesthetic value. However, ecological, governance, and sustainability concerns remain critical. Recommendations emphasize inclusive planning, ecological restoration, heritage conservation, and eco-tourism integration.

The climate of Pune is very healthy. There is three main season, namely summer, winter and rainy season. The temperature ranges from 15°C to 35°C. The high temperature occurs during 15th April to 20th May, and lowest temperature occurs in the month of January. The average rainfall is 70cm with more rain during monsoon period. Below give the monthly average temperature and rainfall information about Pune. Large scales of migration to Pune city create problems of enough water. Each person cannot get enough water for every day to their domestic use as per their need. In monsoon season, due to discharge of dirty and contaminated water, there are chances of spreading of epidemics. As per study there is total 551957 and 514663, households and tap connections respectively (Census 2011). There is shortage of 37294 tap connections, if determine to provide a tap connection to each household. The low economic class residential people could not get enough water because such areas mainly have public tap connections. High altitude part of the city does not get water, as low pressure of water.

The Maval Tahsil of Pune district, located in the western part of Maharashtra, is endowed with a rich spiritual, historical, and cultural heritage. The region is home to several important pilgrimage centers such as the Pratishirdi Shirgaon, Ekvira Devi Temple near Karla Caves, Bhaje and Bedse Buddhist caves, and various local shrines and temples that attract thousands of devotees and tourists every year. These sites not only reflect the religious diversity of the region but also serve as vital contributors to its socio-economic development. This study aims to assess the current status and potential of pilgrimage tourism in Maval Tahsil. It focuses on understanding how religious sites influence local livelihoods, infrastructure development, and cultural preservation. The research identifies key challenges such as inadequate facilities, waste management issues, and lack of sustainable tourism planning that limit the full potential of this sector. With proper infrastructure development, eco-friendly management practices, and community participation, Maval Tahsil can be developed as a model destination for sustainable religious tourism. Enhancing accessibility, promoting local art and culture, and conserving heritage structures can significantly boost both tourism and the regional economy. The study highlights that pilgrimage tourism in Maval holds immense potential to strengthen socio-economic growth while preserving its spiritual and cultural identity.

Tourism holds significant potential to drive economic growth, job creation, cultural exchange, and urban development in rapidly urbanizing Indian cities. This paper examines the current state of tourism development in PCMC (Pimpri-Chinchwad) and Pune city, identifies key challenges hindering its growth, and highlights emerging opportunities, especially under recent policy plans by district authorities. Through reviewing scholarly research, municipal reports and recent tourism-development initiatives, outline of a roadmap for sustainable and inclusive tourism that leverages both heritage and adventure assets, while addressing infrastructural, social, and institutional constraints. This study examines the current status of tourism and hospitality in PCMC and Pune, highlights challenges such as environmental sustainability and infrastructure gaps, and identifies opportunities for growth, including the promotion of offbeat destinations by fostering sustainable practices and leveraging technology.

The furniture industry in the Mumbai–Palghar region (including Vasai, Boisar, Tarapur areas) has emerged as an important hub for both organized and unorganized micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). It has exhibited strong growth potential due to its strategic location, access to skilled labor, and proximity to one of India’s largest consumer markets. This paper examines the current structure, strengths, challenges, and future prospects of the furniture manufacturing sector in this region.

This study examines the role of naturopathy centers in rural development in Purandar Tehsil, Pune District, Maharashtra. The study has of naturopathy centre Narayanpur, Saswad in view of health tourism. Naturopathy - a system of preventive and primitive health care based on natural therapies - has seen renewed interest in rural India for its low-cost, locally adaptable interventions. Using a mixed-methods case-study approach, the research combined structured household surveys, semi structured interviews with naturopathy practitioners and local stakeholders, participant observation at multiple centers and analysis of secondary health and development records. All the findings show that naturopathy center contribute positively to primary health care as well as rural development. It supports local livelihoods through employment of local staff, use of herbs, vegetables, fruits from local farmers and small scale health tourism. Narayndham Naturopathy Centre is located in Purandar tehsil; climate is calm, green landscape, serene natural beauty best location for relaxation from busy life. This helps to improve human health. Their road connectivity is good and nearby from all the cities. Most patients’ reported satisfaction with reasonable casts, experienced staff & supportive environment.

Agro-tourism has emerged as an important alternative form of tourism that integrates agricultural activities with tourism experiences to promote rural development and livelihood diversification. In agrarian regions like Maharashtra, agro-tourism provides an effective strategy for enhancing farmers’ income, generating rural employment, and conserving cultural and environmental resources. Chandgad Taluka of Kolhapur District, located in the Western Ghats region, possesses rich agricultural diversity, high rainfall, forest resources, and cultural heritage, which together create favourable conditions for agro-tourism development. The present study examines the potential and prospects of agro-tourism development in Chandgad Taluka using both secondary and primary data. Primary data were collected through a structured questionnaire administered to 80 respondents selected using stratified random sampling. The study analyses agricultural resources, awareness levels, willingness of farmers, perceived benefits, and challenges related to agro-tourism development. The findings reveal that Chandgad Taluka has significant potential for agro-tourism, particularly through farm-based activities, eco-agro tourism, and cultural tourism. However, issues such as lack of infrastructure, financial constraints, and limited training remain major obstacles. The study suggests sustainable strategies involving community participation, capacity building, infrastructural development, and policy support to promote agro-tourism as a tool for inclusive rural development

Kaygaon-Toka, located in the Ahilyanagar district of Maharashtra, is a culturally significant and naturally scenic rural region situated at the confluence of the Pravara and Godavari rivers. Known for its Siddheshwar Temple complex and serene agrarian surroundings, Kaygaon-Toka exhibits strong potential for developing religious, eco-tourism, river-based tourism, agro-tourism, and community-led village tourism. Despite these strengths, the region faces challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, limited marketing, seasonal river fluctuations, and low institutional support. This research paper examines the location’s existing tourism assets, socio-cultural dynamics, environmental conditions, constraints, and development opportunities. It proposes a sustainable tourism development model based on community participation, soft infrastructure development, heritage conservation, institutional coordination, and long-term ecotourism planning. The study concludes that Kaygaon-Toka can become a model rural-religious tourism destination if supported by integrated planning, government initiatives, and grassroots involvement