JAMMU: SAGG Eco Village, an enterprise from Kashmir, has made history by becoming the first from the region to win two accolades at the Outlook Responsible Tourism Summit and Awards (IRTA) 2025. The event, held in Bhuj, Gujarat, saw SAGG Eco Village honoured with the Silver Award in the Sustainable Leadership: BnBs and Guesthouses category, while its founder, Fayaz Ahmad Dar, received the Gold Award in the Sustainability Champions: Grassroots Heroes category.
The Outlook India Responsible Tourism Awards (IRTA), established in 2016, celebrate pioneers in tourism. Known for their selection process, these awards highlight models that inspire transformation.
SAGG Eco Village was recognised for its commitment to preservation, community engagement, and cultural revival, which set it apart in the Sustainable Leadership category. Meanwhile, Fayaz Ahmad Dar was celebrated as a champion for his dedication to entrepreneurship, conservation, and empowerment, positioning SAGG Eco Village as a model for tourism.
The IRTA 2025 summit, organised by Outlook Traveller in partnership with UN Tourism and industry leaders, provided a platform for experts, policymakers, and innovators to share ideas on travel.
Expressing gratitude at the event, Fayaz Ahmad Dar dedicated the awards to his team and supporters, stating, “These awards are a recognition of not just my efforts but of the work of everyone who believes in a world. Our journey at SAGG Eco Village is proof that entrepreneurship can thrive while restoring communities and nature.”
With this recognition, SAGG Eco Village has reinforced its commitment to blending business, tourism, and sustainability, setting standards for entrepreneurship and travel.
