Jharkhandinc Bureau
RANCHI, March 17: Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Tuesday directed officials to identify potential eco-tourism sites across the state and prepare a coordinated action plan for their development.
The directive was issued during the fourth meeting of the governing body of the Jharkhand Eco Tourism Authority (JETA) held at the Jharkhand Assembly.
Soren asked the Forest, Tourism and Water Resources departments to work in coordination to identify suitable locations and ensure planned development of eco-tourism infrastructure.
He said Jharkhand has significant natural potential that can be developed into eco-tourism destinations while ensuring environmental conservation and generating employment for local communities.
Officials made presentations on proposed eco-tourism development at locations including Netarhat, Patratu, Maithon, Chaibasa, Dumka and Ranchi.
According to officials, the development of Patratu on the lines of Masanjore was also discussed during the meeting.
The chief minister directed officials to prepare a comprehensive and time-bound implementation plan with a focus on infrastructure development while maintaining ecological balance.
He said eco-tourism can contribute to economic growth and enhance the state’s visibility at national and international levels.
Soren also asked departments to identify key locations such as forest areas, water bodies, hill regions and religious sites where eco-tourism infrastructure can be developed while maintaining ecological balance.
Officials said the initiative aims to promote sustainable tourism and create livelihood opportunities for local communities.
The meeting was attended by Tourism, Art and Culture, Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Sudivya Kumar, Chief Secretary Avinash Kumar, and senior officials of the Forest, Water Resources and Tourism departments.
