THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, March 17: The fourth meeting of the Governing Body of the Jharkhand Eco-Tourism Authority (JETA) concluded on Tuesday under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Hemant Soren at the Jharkhand Legislative Assembly.
Chairing the meeting, the Chief Minister directed officials to identify sites across the state with strong eco-tourism potential. He asked the Departments of Forest, Tourism, and Water Resources to work in coordination and prepare a comprehensive action plan to develop eco-tourism in Jharkhand.
Soren said Jharkhand’s natural beauty offers immense opportunities for eco-tourism, which can both generate employment and ensure environmental conservation.
ALSO READ: West Bengal Polls: Why Eastern India needs a resurgent Bengal for Jharkhand to thrive
Infra Development with Time-Bound Implementation
The Chief Minister stressed the need to develop robust infrastructure at selected locations and ensure implementation within a stipulated timeframe.
Detailed discussions were held on promoting eco-tourism in Maithon, Netarhat, Patratu, Chaibasa, Dumka, and Ranchi. Officials also explored developing Patratu on the lines of the Massanjore eco-tourism model.
Eco-Tourism Seen as Growth Engine
Highlighting its economic potential, Soren said eco-tourism can bring national and international recognition to Jharkhand while creating jobs and boosting local economies.
He directed officials to identify key religious sites, forests, rivers, reservoirs, and hilly regions and develop tourism facilities while maintaining ecological balance.
Key Officials Present
The meeting was attended by Tourism Minister Sudivya Kumar, Chief Secretary Avinash Kumar, Forest Secretary Abu Bakar Siddiqui, Water Resources Secretary Prashant Kumar, Tourism Secretary Mukesh Kumar, PCCF (HoFF) Sanjeev Kumar, PCCF (Wildlife) S.R. Natesh, and representatives from the Ecotourism Society of India.