Promoting eco-tourism to foster sustainable development

The State Government is proactively promoting eco-tourism to offer tourists closer experiences of the wilderness and untouched ecosystems while safeguarding natural resources. Announcing this, Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu stated that this initiative will involve local communities, creating employment opportunities and raising awareness about the importance of conservation.

The Chief Minister highlighted that the government has aligned with recent amendments to the Forest Conservation Act, 2023, supporting sustainable eco-tourism. The Eco-tourism Policy, originally set up in 2017, has been updated to support these objectives, emphasizing community-based eco-tourism models that encourage sustainable practices and maximize community benefits.

To ensure coordinated development, the State Government is centralizing the management of eco-tourism across the State, providing a unified approach. A new mechanism for planning and implementation is in progress to ensure efficient eco-tourism management. Sukhu added that the tourism sector is a cornerstone of the State’s economy, and the government remains committed to its growth while maintaining environmental integrity.

“Tourism is booming in our State, attracting around 2 crore visitors annually to our stunning mountains, landscapes, rivers, and trekking opportunities,” said the Chief Minister. “Eco-friendly tourism is crucial for sustainable development and environmental conservation, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the State.” He also noted that many tourists miss out on the rich bio-cultural diversity, and the government is working to remove obstacles, ensuring each visitor has a memorable experience.

The State’s eco-tourism offerings include trekking, camping, bird watching, and adventure sports, with new sites and trekking routes being approved to meet tourists’ interests and safety needs. These initiatives aim to boost the State’s economy, protect forest resources, create new jobs for local residents, and foster eco-friendly tourism.

“The State Government is dedicated to sustainable development, conservation, and enhancing the tourism experience for visitors while supporting local communities,” said Chief Minister Sukhu.