Odisha govt earmarks Rs 30 cr for ecotourism development, takes measures for livelihood

With an aim to develop Odisha's tourism sector, state government approved an action plan of Rs 30 crore on Friday.

Among or development work, allocated sum will be used for development of eco-tourism destinations. tably, eco-tourism has become a great employment alternative for people living in remote areas and is providing m livelihood opportunities. 

Action plan for development of eco-tourism in Odisha

An official has confirmed that Odisha government has allotted Rs 30 crore as a part of an action plan for development, up-gradation and creation of new tourist spots in state.

A discussion on same was held on Friday at a meeting under chairmanship of Chief Secretary SC Mahapatra.

Chief Secretary Mahapatra also provided guidelines to be followed for development of eco-tourism spots.

forest department has been instructed to open up newly developed eco-tourism spots like Nrusinghnath, Pine forest, Patora Dam, Tensa, and Kanjiapani. 

Mahapatra has also recommended creation of eir day tourist spots or night stay camps depending on natural habitat and tourist attraction potential of such areas.

Friday's meeting emphasized development of new eco-destinations, invation and up-scaling of existing spots which need some infrastructural projects to be completed, capacity building, and exposure visits. 

Giving directions, Chief Secretary asked officials to ensure that COVID-19 appropriate behaviour and protocols for checking spread of coronavirus are properly followed. 

Odisha tourism footfall rises by 96%

In past two years, Odisha's eco-tourism has recorded a growth of 96% in terms of tourists visiting and 49% in terms of revenue generation. This growth has been helpful for providing a better alternative for people living in remote areas of state and has boosted ecomic activities for such communities. 

forest and natural habitat conserved in such remote areas have ultimately turned out to become a sustainable treasure for community.

Official sources state that re has been a constant increase in number of visitors in se eco-destinations. tourist numbers to 57,000 in 2020-2021 in comparison to 11,500 in 2017-18.  Similarly, revenues increased to Rs 8.30 crore in 2020-21, an over 50% rise in comparison to Rs 3.40 crore generated in 2017-18. 

(Im Credits: PTI/Ecotourism)