Bihar Minister Launches Ecotourism Investors Meet to Boost Green Tourism

In a significant push for sustainable tourism, Bihar’s Environment, Forest & Climate Change Minister Ram Chandra Prasad inaugurated the "Ecotourism Investors Meet-2026" on Monday, July 13. The event, held at a city hotel, aimed to attract private investment to develop ecotourism destinations across the state. Investors from various parts of the country attended the day-long meet, showcasing interest in Bihar’s untapped ecological tourism potential.

Government Pledges Full Support to Investors

Addressing the gathering, Minister Prasad reassured investors of the state government’s commitment to resolving their concerns and facilitating their ventures. "The state government is committed to cooperate and help in every possible manner in resolving their grievances and problems," he stated. He also invited investors to be part of Bihar’s growth story, highlighting the leadership of Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary in guiding such initiatives.

Flexible Policies and Investor-Friendly Framework

Anand Kishor, Additional Chief Secretary of the department, outlined the meet’s objectives, urging investors to share suggestions for refining the Request for Proposal (RFP) process. He emphasized that the RFP currently available is not final and will be adjusted based on investor feedback to ensure a more accommodating and practical framework. Kishor also assured that the government is working on crafting policies that prioritize investor needs and encourage long-term commitments to ecotourism projects.

Ambitious Plans for Ecotourism Development

The state government has already identified 276 potential ecotourism sites, divided into two categories. Group A comprises 29 reservoir-based projects, each requiring a minimum annual turnover of ₹10 crore per site. Group B includes 247 projects involving ponds, lakes, wetlands, and other water bodies, with a lower turnover threshold of ₹2 crore per site. Adventure and water sports facilities are planned at key locations to attract tourists.

Additionally, the department has issued an RFP for developing ecotourism at Bhimbandh Wildlife Sanctuary, with the submission deadline set for July 28. Expressions of Interest (EOI) have also been invited for other projects, signaling the government’s proactive approach to engaging private players.

PPP Model and Long-Term Leases

Principal Chief Conservator of Forest Arvinder Singh highlighted the state’s commitment to promoting private investment through the Public Private Partnership (PPP) model. Selected investors will gain access to project sites on 30-year leases, supported by Viability Gap Funding (VGF) to ensure financial sustainability. Singh emphasized the immense potential for ecotourism in Bihar, citing successful projects like Karamchat Dam, Mundeshwari, and Kakolat Waterfall, which have already attracted significant tourist footfall.

Why It Matters

The Ecotourism Investors Meet-2026 reflects Bihar’s growing focus on leveraging its natural resources for sustainable development. With over ₹500 crore invested in ecotourism infrastructure in recent years, the state is positioning itself as a major player in India’s green tourism sector. The PPP model and government support aim to attract private capital and expertise, ensuring long-term growth while preserving the environment.

Source: The Hindu