10-fold growth in revenue, footfall from eco-tourism

Bhubaneswar: There has been almost 10-fold growth in both footfall and revenue generation at the state’s eco-tourism sites in the past seven years since it started in 2016 with a modest beginning at a few places.From a mere 11,464 visitors then in 2016-17, the number has gone up to 1,31,969 in 2022-23 marking a remarkable success of nature tourism that not only empowers and provides livelihood to local communities but also ensures minimum dependence of villagers on forest. The eco-tourism at the sanctuaries and reserves, national parks and wetlands is managed by local communities and they take 80% of the total revenue generated. Eco-development committee (EDC) members manage the camps and provide hospitality to the tourists.The state’s 49 eco-tourism sites (where night-stay facilities are available) are located in Mayurbhanj, Nayagarh, Kendrapada, Angul, Bargarh, Kandhamal, Puri, Sundargarh, Balasore, Khurda, Keonjhar, Ganjam, Cuttack, Jajpur, Dhenkanal, Malkangiri, Nuapada and Koraput districts. While in 2021, foreign tourists from 19 countries visited the eco-tourism sites, in 2023, the number went up to 22 countries. In 2018-19, their number had been 106. But domestic tourist footfall has been impressive with forest department data recording people from 24 states visiting the eco-tourism hubs. Debrigarh wildlife sanctuary, which is known for easy and better sighting of animal, has been the most sought-after destination followed by Similipal’s and Mahanad wildlife division’s Badmul sands resort.

Four city heritage sites to turn into destination tourism spots

The Uttar Pradesh tourism department has invited bids for the restoration of four heritage sites in Lucknow as part of its tourism renaissance plan. Under the initiative, the heritage sites will be converted into five-star hotels and other tourist facilities. The department aims to showcase the cultural heritage of Uttar Pradesh to the world and attract more tourists. The plan includes the creation of hotels, resorts, museums, cultural centers, and more. The selected concessionaire will be responsible for paying an annual concession fee and sharing a percentage of the gross revenue from the property.

Eco-friendly Ganesh puja in Kolkata

Maharashtra Mandal Kolkata has taken an eco-friendly approach to celebrate the 99th Ganesh Utsav. They have focused on waste management principles, using clay idols instead of POP, minimal decorations, and encouraging members to bring their own water bottles and containers. A composting bin has also been placed for floral offerings, reducing waste and creating bioenzymes. Plastics will be collected for recycling. The celebrations include performing traditional dances and offering Mahaprasad to Lord Ganesha.

UN promotes sustainable growth in tourism industry

The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) is promoting sustainable growth in the tourism industry worldwide with the theme of Tourism and Green Investment for World Tourism Day. Urvashi Yashroy, a veteran in the industry, emphasizes the importance of going green and using renewable energy sources like solar power and wind power in tourism. Gaurav Chouksey, director of Olive Resorts, highlights the challenge of aligning luxury with sustainability but suggests practices such as rainwater harvesting and eco-sensitive construction materials. Green investments are crucial for the industry's recovery from the pandemic and consumer preferences for eco-friendly options.

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