Himachal Pradesh’s Eco-Tourism Initiative
Introduction
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu of Himachal Pradesh announced new measures to boost eco-tourism in the state. The goal is to offer tourists a closer look at the wilderness while conserving natural resources.
Community Involvement
The initiative will involve local communities, creating jobs and raising awareness about ecosystem conservation. The state government has aligned with the Forest Conservation Act, 2023, to support these efforts.
Revised Eco-Tourism Policy
The Eco-Tourism Policy, first established in 2017, has been updated to promote community-based models. These models aim to maximize community benefits and encourage sustainable practices.
Centralized Coordination
The state government is centralizing eco-tourism activities to ensure uniformity and synergy. A new mechanism for coordinated planning and execution is being developed.
Tourism’s Economic Impact
Tourism is vital to the state’s economy, attracting around 2 crore visitors annually. Eco-friendly tourism is seen as a key driver for sustainable development and environmental conservation.
Enhancing Visitor Experience
The government is working to remove barriers so visitors can fully enjoy the state’s bio-cultural diversity. New eco-tourism sites and trekking routes are being approved to meet tourists’ preferences and safety.
Conclusion
The primary aim is to boost the economy, preserve forest resources, create jobs, and promote eco-friendly tourism. The state is committed to sustainable development and enriching tourism experiences.
Doubts Revealed
Himachal Pradesh -: Himachal Pradesh is a state in northern India, known for its beautiful mountains and natural scenery. It is a popular destination for tourists who love nature and adventure.
CM -: CM stands for Chief Minister, who is the head of the government in an Indian state. Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu is the current Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh.
Eco-Tourism -: Eco-tourism is a type of tourism that focuses on visiting natural areas to enjoy and appreciate nature. It aims to be environmentally friendly and help conserve the environment.
Sustainable Development -: Sustainable development means using resources in a way that meets our needs without harming the environment or depleting resources for future generations.
Ecosystem Conservation -: Ecosystem conservation involves protecting and preserving natural environments and the wildlife that live there. It helps maintain the balance of nature.
Community-based models -: Community-based models involve local people in planning and managing tourism activities. This helps create jobs and ensures that the benefits of tourism reach the local community.
2 crore visitors -: 2 crore is a way of saying 20 million in India. It means that 20 million people visit Himachal Pradesh every year, which is a lot of tourists!