What is eco-tourism? Discuss the potential of ecotourism in sustainable development of the state of Himachal Pradesh. Also enlist various initiatives taken by Himachal Pradesh Government to promote Eco-tourism in the state. (HPAS Mains Question Paper 2022 – GS 3, Q.28)
Eco-tourism means venturing into and enjoying nature in such a way as to ensure that negative impacts on the cultural and natural environment are minimized and mitigated. It is, therefore, ‘responsible’ tourism, which, besides being ecologically and culturally sensitive, helps the local communities in realizing social and economic benefits.
Eco-tourism can be one of the most viable options for the conservation of natural resources and sustainable development in a mountain state like Himachal Pradesh. It has to be executed mindfully, with the minimum impact to inspire cultural awareness, tolerance and commitment to natural resource conservation.
Eco-tourism, defined as responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people, has the potential to contribute to Himachal Pradesh’s sustainable development.
Here are some ways that eco-tourism can help Himachal Pradesh:
- Natural resource conservation: Eco-tourism can aid in the preservation of natural resources in Himachal Pradesh by providing incentives for local communities to preserve their natural surroundings. Eco-tourism activities such as wildlife safaris and bird watching, for example, can help to protect local wildlife and their habitats.
- Economic benefits: Eco-tourism can provide economic benefits to local communities in Himachal Pradesh by creating tourism-related job opportunities. Furthermore, tourists who participate in eco-tourism activities frequently spend money on local products and services, contributing to the local economy.
- Eco-tourism can facilitate cultural exchange between visitors and local communities in Himachal Pradesh. Tourists can learn about locals’ traditional lifestyles, customs, and cultures, while locals can learn about tourists’ culture.
- Eco-tourism can be used to educate and raise awareness among tourists about environmental issues and conservation efforts in Himachal Pradesh. This has the potential to increase public support for environmental conservation efforts.
Some eco-tourism activities that can be enjoyed in Himachal Pradesh include:
- Trekking and hiking in the Himalayan mountains to enjoy the scenic beauty of the area while increasing physical fitness.
- Experiencing the region’s unique flora and fauna by visiting wildlife sanctuaries and national parks such as the Great Himalayan National Park.
- Participating in adventure sports such as paragliding and river rafting while ensuring that these activities are environmentally responsible.
- Exploring local villages and communities to learn about their traditional customs, lifestyles, and cultures.
Some initiatives taken by the Himachal Pradesh government to promote eco-tourism in the state include:
Himachal Pradesh’s government has created an Eco-tourism Development Plan in order to promote sustainable tourism in the state. Various eco-tourism potential zones have been identified in this plan, and measures to develop them sustainably have been proposed. The Great Himalayan National Park, for example, has been designated as an eco-tourism zone, and efforts to promote sustainable tourism in the region have been proposed.
- Certification for sustainable tourism: The state government has launched a certification programme to encourage sustainable tourism practices among tourism operators. Tourism operators can apply for accreditation under this programme if they meet specific criteria for environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and economic viability. The Kullu-Manali Eco-Regeneration Society, for example, has received sustainable tourism certification for its efforts to promote eco-tourism in the region.
- Community-based eco-tourism: To involve local communities in the tourism industry and provide them with economic benefits, the government has launched community-based eco-tourism projects. For example, in the Tirthan Valley, the Kullu district administration has found a community-based eco-tourism project that includes the development of homestays and community-managed tourism sites.
- Conservation initiatives: The state government has launched a number of conservation initiatives to protect the state’s natural environment and wildlife. To protect the state’s natural environment and nature, the state government has established wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, such as the Pin Valley National Park.
- Adventure sports promotion: The government has promoted adventure sports like trekking, mountaineering, river rafting, and paragliding, which provide opportunities for eco-tourism and adventure tourism while encouraging physical fitness and a connection to nature. Paragliding, for example, is a popular adventure sport in Bir Billing, a popular eco-tourism destination in Himachal Pradesh.
- Awareness campaigns: To educate tourists and local communities about the importance of sustainable tourism practices, the government has launched a number of awareness campaigns. For example, the state government has promoted responsible tourism behaviours such as waste reduction, energy conservation, and the use of eco-friendly products through campaigns.
