Tuhin Sarkar
Friday, July 26, 2024
Reading Time: 2 minutes
In a significant move to promote eco-tourism and sustainable development, the state government has allocated $127 million (Rs 1,064 crore) for the Environment and Forests Department in the latest budget. Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka, while presenting the budget on Thursday, emphasized the importance of eco-tourism in conserving forests and boosting the state’s economy.
Formulating a Strong Eco-Tourism Policy
Deputy Chief Minister Vikramarka announced that a comprehensive eco-tourism policy will be formulated and implemented, highlighting its dual role in environmental protection and revenue generation. He stated, “Eco-tourism will not only protect the environment but also generate revenue for the state.”
To ensure the policy is well-rounded and effective, the government has constituted a committee of senior officials led by State Forest Minister Konda Surekha. This committee will visit other states, such as Odisha and Karnataka, to study their best practices in eco-tourism. The insights gained from these visits will form the basis for developing a robust eco-tourism policy tailored to the state’s unique needs.
Identified Eco-Tourism Sites in Telangana
Seven forest areas have been earmarked as prime locations for eco-tourism development. These sites include:
- Amrabad Tiger Reserve
- Kawal Tiger Reserve
- Vikarabad-Ananthagiri Circuit
- Kanakagiri in Khammam
- Kuntala Falls in Adilabad
- Kinnerasani in Kothagudem
- Pakala and Eturnagaram Circuit
These areas are renowned for their rich biodiversity and scenic beauty, making them ideal for eco-tourism activities that can attract tourists while promoting conservation.
Budget Allocations and Initiatives in Telangana
The 2023-24 Budget Estimate (BE) for the Environment and Forests Department was $176 million (Rs 1,471 crore), which has now been revised to $127 million (Rs 1,064 crore) for 2024-25. This significant allocation underscores the government’s commitment to environmental sustainability and eco-tourism.
In addition to the eco-tourism policy, the government has announced the ‘Vajrotsava Vanamahotsavam’ programme, under which 20.02 crore trees will be planted in 2024. This massive afforestation drive aims to enhance the state’s green cover and support its ecological balance.
Furthermore, the compensation for families affected by human-animal conflicts has been increased from $6,300 (Rs 5 lakh) to $12,600 (Rs 10 lakh). This move is intended to provide better support to those who have lost loved ones in such incidents, reflecting the government’s dedication to addressing human-wildlife coexistence issues.
Telangana push towards eco-tourism represents a forward-thinking approach to environmental conservation and economic development. By leveraging the natural beauty and biodiversity of its forest areas, the state aims to create a sustainable model that benefits both the environment and the economy. The upcoming robust eco-tourism policy, coupled with substantial budget allocations and supportive initiatives, positions the state as a leader in promoting sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship.
