· Rural tourism to get boost: CM
Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has directed the Rural Development and Panchayati Raj departments to commence work on the two eco-tourism projects worth Rs. 16.67 crore sanctioned for Hareta Gram Panchayat in Nadaun block of Hamirpur district and at Kamyana Hilltop in Mashobra block of district Shimla. Attributing approval of these projects to the relentless efforts of the State Government, he said that these projects will go a long way in generating employment and self employment opportunities to the local youth.
Sh. Sukhu said that under these eco-tourism projects, there will be a focus on promoting renewable energy for electrification and employing technology for wildlife conservation and the preservation of flora and fauna. The Tourism Development Society and Self Help Groups of the areas would be actively involved for ensuring sustainable eco-tourism, biodiversity conservation and the Panchayati Raj, Forest, Tourism and Rural Development Departments will collaborate for smooth implementation of these projects.
The Chief Minister said that various basic amenities and infrastructure would be developed at Hareta Gram Panchayat like developing grasslands, tree houses for night camping, walking and nature trails, cafeteria, children park, solar powered lighting facilities, herbal medicinal plant cultivation etc. He said that 1.2 hectares of area would be developed under this project and about 60 Self Help Groups would be engaged.
At Kamyana Hilltop, the project will include tree top, cafeteria, landscape zones, kids garden, adventure activities, cycling trails, deodar zone, cactus garden, butterfly garden, all designed to attract more tourists to the area. He said that 24 Self Help Groups will also be involved under this project.
The Chief Minister said that the tourism sector can play a vital role in strengthening the economy of the State and added that the State Government was committed to enhance tourism related infrastructure and encourage ecotourism to cater the needs of tourists.
