UNVEILING THE TRANSFORMATIVE IMPACT OF WETLAND TOURISM ON LOCAL LIVELIHOODS: A CAPTIVATING STUDY OF MAGURI BEEL, TINSUKIA DISTRICT, ASSAM.
 https://doi.org/10.65725/IJHLT/1/2/002

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HUMANITIES AND LEARNING TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION (IJHLT)
Volume 1, Issue 2, July – September 2026

Abstract:
Wetlands support incredible biodiversity, hosting migratory birds, fish, and other wildlife. These “kidneys of the earth” filter pollutants and maintain water quality. Maguri Beel, a vital wetland ecosystem in Assam, India, is a haven for biodiversity and a lifeline for local communities, supporting fishing, agriculture, and emerging tourism activities. However, the increasing influx of tourists, drawn by its scenic beauty and rich avifauna, poses threats to its ecological balance. Set amidst lush wetlands, grasslands, and tropical forests, the area’s tourism potential necessitates sustainable management to prevent environmental degradation and cultural disruption. This study examines the interplay between social and economic impacts of tourism in Maguri Beel using a mixed-methods approach. Data were collected through household surveys in Maguri Motapung Village (N=150), stakeholder interviews, and field observations, focusing on community engagement, income generation, and perceptions of conservation. Correlation analysis revealed a strong positive correlation (r = 0.954***) between social engagement and economic benefits, highlighting synergies between community involvement and tourism gains. The findings underscore the need for sustainable strategies prioritising eco-friendly practices, community-led tourism, and conservation efforts. Proposed measures include promoting nature-based activities, enhancing local capacities, ensuring responsible tourism practices, and strengthening wetland conservation initiatives. Implementing these strategies can conserve Maguri Beel’s ecological integrity while enhancing local benefits, offering a replicable model for balancing tourism growth with environmental stewardship in sensitive wetland ecosystems.

Authors: Dr. Krishnamoni Saikia

Keywords: Wetland Tourism, Maguri Beel, Assam Tourism, Socio-economic impact.