Patna: Tourists are increasingly choosing Bihar over Goa, according to Bihar’s Environment Minister Dr. Sunil Kumar, who cited a recent review of tourism data during a press interaction on Saturday.
Speaking from Bhagalpur, the minister said, “When tourist arrivals were reviewed across the country, it was found that more visitors arrived in Rajgir and Gayaji than in Goa this time. Bihar has been actively improving infrastructure and promoting tourism, and the results are showing.”
The minister emphasised the potential of eco-tourism in the state, pointing out that forest cover in Bihar has nearly doubled since 2004. “Back then, forest cover was just 7.62 percent. Today it stands at 15.05 percent. Our target is to increase it to 17 percent by 2028,” he said, highlighting the role of tree plantation in combating climate change.
He also underlined the state’s flagship Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali campaign aimed at environmental conservation. Encouraging public participation, he appealed to citizens to dedicate one hour every Sunday to the environment and plant at least one tree. “If every individual gives just one hour a day for the environment, Bihar can regain its glorious past,” he added.
Dr. Sunil Kumar announced plans to increase environmental education among school and college students. The government is set to launch dedicated campaigns and curriculum updates in educational institutions to raise awareness about environmental issues.
Addressing development in tourism infrastructure, the minister said the ropeway project at Mandar Parvat in Bounsi will be operational within 15 to 20 days. He claimed a significant role in getting the project sanctioned to ease travel for visitors to the historic site.
