Himachal govt to develop Hareta gram panchayat, Kamyana village as eco-tourism destinations

Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India] October 7 (ANI): Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has directed the Rural Development and Panchayati Raj departments to commence work on the two eco-tourism projects worth Rs 16.67 crore sanctioned for Hareta Gram Panchayat in Nadaun block of Hamirpur district and at Kamyana Hilltop in Mashobra block of district Shimla, an official statement said on Saturday.
As per the statement, CM Sukhu attributing the approval of these projects to the efforts of the State Government said, "These projects will go a long way in generating employment and self-employment opportunities for the local youth."
He further said that under these eco-tourism projects, there will be a focus on promoting renewable energy for electrification and employing technology for wildlife conservation and the preservation of flora and fauna.
The official statement mentioned that the tourism development society and self-help groups of the areas would be actively involved to ensure sustainable eco-tourism, and biodiversity conservation.
The Panchayati Raj, Forest, Tourism and Rural Development Departments will collaborate for the smooth implementation of these projects, said the press release.
CM Sukhu said that various basic amenities and infrastructure would be developed at Hareta Gram Panchayat like developing grasslands, tree houses for night camping, walking and nature trails, a cafeteria, children's park, solar-powered lighting facilities and herbal medicinal plant cultivation.
CM said that 1.2 hectares of area would be developed under this project and about 60 Self Help Groups would be engaged.
The press release also mentioned that at the Kamyana Hilltop, the project will include a tree-top cafeteria, landscape zones, a kids' garden, adventure activities, cycling trails, a deodar zone, a cactus garden, a butterfly garden, all designed to attract more tourists to the area.
CM Sukhu said that 24 Self Help Groups will be involved in this project as well.
The Himachal CM further highlighted how the tourism sector can play a vital role in strengthening the economy of the State and added that the State Government is committed towards enhancing the tourism-related infrastructure and encouraging ecotourism to cater for the needs of tourists, the statement added. (ANI)