Patna: Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary on Saturday chaired a high-level review meeting on eco-tourism at ‘Samvad’ in the Chief Minister’s Secretariat, directing departments to prepare a comprehensive and time-bound development plan.
Officials from multiple departments, including Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Water Resources, Tourism, Minor Water Resources, Urban Development and Housing, and Panchayati Raj, presented their respective action plans during the meeting.
Push For Integrated Eco-Tourism Strategy
The Chief Minister said Bihar has significant potential for eco-tourism and emphasised the need to integrate historical, cultural and religious sites into a unified tourism framework.
He directed all departments to work with urgency to position Bihar as a major destination for domestic and international tourists, with a focus on spiritual, cultural and eco-tourism.
PPP Model And Tourism Infrastructure
Chaudhary instructed officials to develop tourism-related amenities around state-owned reservoirs under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. He also suggested seeking public feedback while designing these initiatives.
He called for the swift formulation of tourist-friendly packages aimed at improving visitor experience and increasing footfall. In addition, he proposed a two-day tourism package for ministers, legislators and government officials to encourage them to visit and promote destinations within the state.
“Promoting internal visits will help build awareness about facilities and unique features of tourist sites,” he said.
Focus On Environment And Employment
The Chief Minister directed the Department of Environment, Forest and Climate Change to undertake plantation drives and develop tourism amenities around ponds owned by the state government. He said such initiatives would generate local employment, enhance green cover and support water conservation.
He also instructed officials to organise wetland areas in low-lying chaur regions and carry out plantation activities in surrounding areas.
Expansion To Dams And Hill Regions
Eco-tourism infrastructure is also to be developed under the PPP model at dam sites managed by the Water Resources Department. The Chief Minister further directed the construction of helipads in hilly regions to improve access and allow tourists to experience scenic landscapes.
Jain Circuit And Heritage Development
Chaudhary asked officials to prepare plans for developing the state’s Jain Circuit, in consultation with members of the Jain community. He noted that several initiatives have already been undertaken to preserve heritage sites and improve tourism infrastructure.
He added that while the government continues to focus on public welfare, parallel efforts are being made to strengthen the tourism sector.
Officials Present
Senior officials present at the meeting included Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Deepak Kumar, Development Commissioner Mihir Kumar Singh, Additional Chief Secretary Anand Kishor, and Principal Secretary (Water Resources) Santosh Kumar Mall, among others.
