The Socio-Cultural Impact of Rural Tourism in India: A Regional Analysis with Special Reference to Kerala in the Context of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Objective: The objective of this study is to explore the potential of ecotourism as a strategic tool for transforming coastal slum areas in developing regions, with a focus on alleviating poverty, improving living conditions, and fostering sustainable development. Theoretical Framework: The research draws on theories of sustainable development, ecotourism, and community-based tourism. The study builds on frameworks that emphasize the role of local community involvement, environmental conservation, and socio-economic improvement in developing effective strategies for slum transformation. Method: This research adopts a quantitative approach, utilizing Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) using R Studio to analyze relationships between ecotourism development, infrastructure investment, community participation, and sustainable tourism outcomes. Data were collected through surveys of 160 residents in a coastal slum area, complemented by direct observations of the region’s environmental and infrastructural conditions. Results and Discussion: The findings reveal that investments in ecotourism infrastructure and active community engagement significantly improve the economic conditions and environmental sustainability of coastal slum areas. However, gaps in policy support and sustainable tourism principles were identified, which limit the full realization of ecotourism’s potential in alleviating slum conditions. Research Implications: This study highlights ecotourism's potential to alleviate poverty and transform coastal slum areas through infrastructure investment and community participation. It offers practical insights for policymakers and developers in sustainable tourism, emphasizing improved economic, social, and environmental outcomes. Theoretically, it enriches sustainable development literature by linking local governance with ecotourism-driven regional transformation. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the existing literature by presenting a comprehensive framework that integrates ecotourism with poverty alleviation strategies, focusing on the transformation of coastal slums into sustainable tourism hubs. The findings provide actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners working on sustainable development initiatives in coastal regions.