CM Hemant Soren pushes eco-tourism, sports university in Jharkhand
RANCHI, July 6: Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Monday directed officials to accelerate the development of eco-tourism, prepare a roadmap for…
RANCHI, July 6: Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Monday directed officials to accelerate the development of eco-tourism, prepare a roadmap for establishing a Sports University and strengthen support for athletes and artists during a high-level review meeting of the Department of Tourism, Art, Culture, Sports and Youth Affairs.
Reviewing the department’s achievements, action plan and priorities for the current and upcoming financial years at the Jharkhand Mantralaya, the Chief Minister stressed the need for effective implementation of government schemes. Tourism, Art, Culture, Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Sudivya Kumar was present at the meeting.
Eco-tourism gets priority
Describing eco-tourism as a priority for the state government, Soren directed officials to identify underground coal mining areas that could be developed into tourist destinations.
He asked the department to prepare action plans for eco-tourism projects in Seraikela-Kharsawan, East Singhbhum, Giridih, Latehar, Hazaribagh and Ranchi districts, besides framing a comprehensive tourism policy for Jharkhand.
The Chief Minister also instructed officials to ensure the planned development of natural, religious, historical and eco-tourism destinations across the state.
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Highlighting the tourism potential of Patratu Valley, Soren directed officials to expedite construction of the Patratu View Point and prepare proposals for ropeway projects at Patratu and other suitable tourist destinations.
For Netarhat in Latehar district, he called for an action plan to develop a glass watchtower or glass bridge. He also asked officials to improve facilities at Koel View Point, including cottages, trekking infrastructure and a swimming pool, while promoting eco-tourism at Lodh Falls.
Sports University roadmap
Reviewing the Sports and Youth Affairs Department, the Chief Minister directed officials to prepare an action plan for establishing a Sports University in Jharkhand.
He also instructed the department to create a database of national and international medal-winning athletes and formulate financial assistance schemes for those from economically weaker backgrounds.
Soren ordered a comprehensive review of the Mega Sports Complex at Khelgaon, Ranchi, covering its maintenance, financial management and sports infrastructure. He asked officials to improve facilities and training support for athletes and coaches.
The Chief Minister also stressed the need to organise exposure visits for Jharkhand’s athletes and coaches to leading sports academies in other states and facilitate visits by renowned sportspersons to Jharkhand.
Database of artists
During the review of the Art and Culture Department, Soren directed officials to prepare a comprehensive database of artists associated with different art forms.
Officials informed the meeting that around 12,000 artists have already been registered in the state. The Chief Minister directed that the list be verified through district authorities and asked the department to facilitate exchange programmes with fine arts institutions in other states to provide greater exposure to local artists.
He said the initiative would strengthen Jharkhand’s cultural ecosystem and create more opportunities for artists at national and international platforms.
Tourism to generate employment
Soren said tourism development would strengthen Jharkhand’s religious and cultural identity while creating employment and self-employment opportunities for local communities.
He directed officials to complete tourism projects within stipulated timelines while maintaining high standards of quality and modern infrastructure.
State Chief Secretary Avinash Kumar, Tourism, Art, Culture, Sports and Youth Affairs Secretary Mukesh Kumar, Tourism Director Naman Priyesh Lakra, Sports Director Chhavi Ranjan and other senior officials attended the meeting.
