Why in news:

• The Himachal Pradesh Cabinet, under the leadership of Chief Minister, has recently decided to amend the Eco-Tourism Policy.

Key Points:

• The state Eco-Tourism Policy of 2017 has undergone amendment. According to the concerned officials, the amendment aims to align the policy with recent changes in the Forest Conservation Act (FCA) of 2023, reflecting the state government’s commitment to sustainable tourism practices that benefit both the environment and local communities.

Objectives of the Eco-Tourism Policy

The primary objectives of the Eco-Tourism Policy are multifaceted and focus on sustainable development:

• Nature enjoyment and education: The policy aims to provide tourists with opportunities to enjoy and learn about nature while minimizing negative impacts.
• Community involvement: It emphasizes empowering local communities to manage eco-tourism, ensuring they receive economic benefits and have a direct stake in conservation efforts.
• Conservation promotion: The policy seeks to promote conservation efforts that protect the rich cultural and ecological heritage of Himachal Pradesh.
• Infrastructure development: There is a focus on developing organizational and infrastructural facilities for eco-tourism, along with capacity building for eco-tourism managers.
• Revenue generation: The policy aims to generate revenue for the state, which can be reinvested into conservation and tourism initiatives.

Key features of the Revised Policy

The revised Eco-Tourism Policy includes several key features designed to enhance its effectiveness:

1. Alignment with FCA 2023: The amendment ensures that the policy is consistent with recent legislative changes aimed at strengthening forest conservation efforts.
2. Integrated approach: It promotes a collaborative approach involving various government departments, local communities, NGOs, and private enterprises to create a cohesive strategy for tourism development.
3. Financial returns: The policy emphasizes generating financial returns that can be reinvested in environmental upkeep and community welfare.
4. Awareness building: It encourages awareness programs aimed at educating stakeholders about sustainable practices and the importance of preserving natural resources.