Chirag Gupta
Patna: Bihar holds immense potential for eco-tourism, positioning itself as a leading center in the coming years, stated Nand Kishore, Managing Director of the Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation (BSTDC). His remarks were made during a group discussion titled “Nature and Nurture: Building a Responsible Eco-Tourism Model,” part of the second session of the Travel and Tourism Fair (TTF) 2024, organized by the Tourism Department at Gyan Bhawan.
Kishore highlighted the ongoing efforts of the Tourism Department to promote eco-tourism in Bihar, assuring that all suggestions from the discussion will be carefully considered for future initiatives. Pradeep Gaurav, an officer from the Bhojpur Forest Division, emphasized the significance of eco-tourism in the Rohtas and Kaimur regions, which were previously inaccessible due to Naxal issues. He noted that these areas are now being identified for potential eco-tourism development, which aims to integrate conservation, community benefits, and sustainable travel.
Raj Basu, an advisor to the Tourism Departments of Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh, stressed the need for improved homestay facilities to enhance the rural tourism experience. He argued that tourists should engage with the local environment rather than staying in hotels, which would enrich their experience of Bihar’s historical significance as a tourism hub since ancient times.
Dr. Mohit Sharma, a professor at Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, discussed the potential for agri-tourism, emphasizing the importance of scientific approaches to attract visitors. He mentioned the unique honey produced from Shahi litchi and the launch of a diploma course focused on agri-tourism at the university.
The discussion also included insights from Bashu Dhungana from Chitwan, Nepal, who advocated for joint promotion of the Valmiki Nagar Tiger Reserve, highlighting its diverse wildlife that spans both India and Nepal. The presentation concluded with a showcase of tourist attractions in Maharashtra by Vijay Jadhav, Deputy Director of Maharashtra Tourism, followed by the honoring of panelists with angavastra and mementos. In the evening, the cultural program featured renowned artist Swati Mishra, who captivated the audience with traditional Mithila bhajans, creating a devotional atmosphere.
