Eco-tourism initiatives include redevelopment of green belts, water fronts, forest reserves near areas which were initially abandoned due to land degradation, rapid urban growth as well as industrialisation, which has led to air, water and sound pollution
Eco-parks play a leading role in promoting sustainable tourism in India. Currently, natural monuments are being developed and multiple rejuvenation strategies are being carried out in tourist spots and essential river belts. Nineteen eco parks are being set up.
It is imperative for India’s rich cultural and historical assets be preserved, Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) Ashwini Kumar Choubey reiterated recently.
Eco-tourism is being prioritised and includes redevelopment of green belts, water fronts, forest reserves near areas which were initially abandoned due to land degradation, rapid urban growth as well as industrialisation, which has led to air, water and sound pollution.
MoEFCC does not have particular programmes related to eco-parks; however, it has a number of programmes and schemes that facilitates eco-rejuvenation like Nagar Van Yojna and National Mission for Green India.
The Nagar Van Yojna aims to focus on setting up of Nagar Vatikas in cities with municipal corporations and urban local bodies to ensure a robust, resilient lifestyle of residents, which is essential to promote sustainable and green cities.
As far as the growth of green forest belts is concerned, the National Mission for Green India has launched a project in order to increase tree cover in urban areas. Another initiative is the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation that lays emphasis on developing basic infrastructure and amenities for all in cities.
Water quality has been an issue in various parts of India. In view of this challenge, Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE), Dehradun, is working for redeveloping water fronts and plantations near 13 rivers like the Brahamaputra, Ganges, Yamuna and Jhelum, etc.
Similarly, the Ministry of Mining’s initiative for fostering sustainable tourism includes establishing spaces for recreations activities.
When mine reserves get exhausted, the ministry intends to focus on developing tourist attractions where activities such as golf, bird watching and adventure would be available. It is expected to prevent wastage of land and flora and fauna.