Himachal Pradesh Leads Eco-Tourism Transformation

Himachal Pradesh's government, led by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, focuses on enhancing ecotourism to benefit local communities and promote environmental conservation. Initiatives include creating livelihood opportunities, revising policies, and developing new trekking routes, aiming to bolster the economy while preserving the state's natural resources.

Himachal Pradesh is gearing up for an ecotourism revolution under the leadership of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. Addressing the public on Wednesday, the chief minister emphasized his government's commitment to fostering ecotourism, which is set to benefit local communities economically and elevate awareness about environmental preservation.

The state is taking proactive measures to offer tourists immersive experiences within its untouched ecosystems. This strategy aligns with measures to conserve natural resources and strike a balance between tourism and sustainability. The initiative is also expected to generate new economic opportunities for residents and augment eco-awareness.

The government has revised the Ecotourism Policy of 2017 and aligned it with the amendments to the Forest Conservation Act, 2023, to support sustainable tourism practices. Plans are underway to devise a centralized coordination mechanism, ensuring uniformity in managing ecotourism initiatives. These efforts aim to boost tourism's contribution to the state's economy, drawing two crore annual visitors attracted to its stunning landscapes and wealth of biodiversity.

(With inputs from agencies.)