Published: 27th Jan, 2024
Context
The Central government aims to boost tourism at ecologically-sensitive wetlands, known as Ramsar sites.
About
About Ramsar Sites:
- Ramsar sites are wetlands designated as internationally important under the Ramsar Convention.
- Ramsar sites are identified for international importance, especially for waterfowl habitat.
- Examples in India: Chilika Lake (Odisha), Sundarbans (West Bengal), Bhitarkarnika Mangroves (Odisha), and more.
Objective of the Initiative:
- Shift from high-value tourism to nature tourism at fragile wetlands.
- Direct support for conservation actions.
- Empower local communities and economies.
AmritDharohar Capacity Building Scheme 2023:
- Launched by the Union Tourism Ministry and the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change.
- Aims to promote the conservation values of Ramsar Sites, generate employment, and support local livelihoods.
Implementation:
- Convergence with various central government ministries, state wetland authorities, and formal/informal institutions.
- Training facilitators, tourism service providers, and stakeholders.
- Collaboration with State Tourism Departments.
Focus Areas:
- Skill Development: Training programs at pilot Ramsar sites - Sultanpur National Park, Bhitarkanika Mangroves, Chilika Lake, Sirpur, and YashwantSagar.
- Alternative Livelihood Program (ALP): Participants trained for 15 days each at Sultanpur, YashwantSagar, and Sirpur.
- ParyatanNavik Certificate: Boatman certification for tourism at Bhitarkanika and Chilika.
Significance of Nature Tourism:
- Nature tourism focuses on natural attractions like birdwatching, photography, stargazing, camping, etc.
- Targets high-value tourists interested in diverse natural and cultural resources.
Importance of Wetlands:
- Essential for global biodiversity conservation and sustaining ecosystems.
- Nature tourism at Ramsar sites aligns with the conservation of these vital areas.
- The government's initiative aims to strike a balance between promoting tourism and ensuring the ecological sustainability of Ramsar Sites.
- Nature tourism not only benefits local economies but also contributes to the preservation of unique ecosystems.
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