Patna: Ensuring cleanliness and enhancing facilities at tourist destinations in Bihar is a top priority for the government, said Tourism Minister Nitish Mishra. Addressing a state-level workshop on the Swachhta Green Leaf Rating System at Hotel Maurya, he emphasized the need for high sanitation standards to attract more tourists. Mishra urged hotel and tour operators to adopt better waste management, cleanliness, and hospitality practices to improve visitor experience.
Tourism Sector to Get Boost with Improved Facilities
The minister stated that Bihar has seen an increase in tourist numbers, and efforts are underway to further develop basic amenities. Widespread promotion of Bihar’s tourism potential will ensure the state is included in travel plans across the country. He stressed that hotel and tour operators must play an active role by maintaining hygiene and upgrading facilities to create a positive impression on tourists.
Green Leaf Rating System for Hotels and Tourism Facilities
Tourism Secretary Lokesh Kumar Singh announced that hotels with good star and Green Leaf ratings will be featured on the Bihar Tourism website. This will allow tourists to book accommodations directly. He encouraged hotel operators to assess their sanitation standards and apply for the best possible rating through their district officers, emphasizing that a high rating would boost business.
Experts Highlight Importance of Sanitation Rating
CEO of Lohia Swachh Bihar Yojana, Himanshu Sharma, provided insights into the Green Leaf Rating system and urged hospitality businesses to participate. Dr. Prabhakar Sinha from UNICEF presented details on the rating criteria and its benefits. As part of the event, Nitish Mishra honored 20 winners from Darbhanga division under the “Mera Prakhand Mera Gaurav” competition, awarding them certificates. The event was opened by Tourism Director Vinay Kumar Rai, while Deputy Secretary Indu Kumari gave the vote of thanks.
What is the Swachhta Green Leaf Rating System?
Launched in November 2023, the Swachhta Green Leaf Rating System (SGLR) is a joint initiative of the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation under the Ministry of Jal Shakti and the Ministry of Tourism. It aims to improve sanitation standards in hospitality facilities and aligns with the Ministry of Tourism’s “Travel for Life” commitment under Mission LIFE of NITI Aayog.
Key Objectives of SGLR
The rating system focuses on improving sanitation facilities, proper waste segregation, faecal sludge management, and solid waste-free environments. It also promotes water conservation through the 3R principles—Reduce, Reuse, and Recharge. Additionally, it restricts the use of single-use plastics and prohibits plastic waste burning.
Voluntary Participation and District-Level Support
The Swachhta Green Leaf Rating system is voluntary, inviting participation from hotels, home-stays, inns, and camps. The evaluation process includes orientation, self-declaration, and verification steps. District-level committees have been established to guide and verify compliance, ensuring a smooth implementation of the initiative.
Enhancing Bihar’s Tourism Potential
With the government’s focus on cleanliness and upgraded facilities, Bihar aims to position itself as a top tourist destination. The introduction of the Green Leaf Rating system is expected to set new standards for hygiene and responsible tourism, ensuring a better experience for visitors and boosting the state’s hospitality sector.
