Virtual Tours of Tourist Destinations, Quiz Competition, and Expert Discussions held during the two day conclave.
Lucknow, February 3, 2025
The Uttar Pradesh Eco-Tourism Development Board participated in a three-day Policy Conclave held at IIT Kanpur. As part of its engagement, the board set up a stall to promote eco-tourism destinations, offering virtual tours of locations such as Katarniaghat, Dudhwa National Park, and Pilibhit Tiger Reserve. A quiz competition was also organized, and on the final day, experts engaged in a panel discussion named ‘Samvad,’ highlighting the vast opportunities available for youth in the eco-tourism sector.
Chief Conservator of Forests (Kanpur), K.K. Singh, emphasized the natural beauty of Uttar Pradesh, stating, “The state is home to diverse wildlife and rare bird species, making it an attractive destination for eco-tourism. With immense potential in this sector, the Uttar Pradesh Eco-Tourism Development Board, under the leadership of UP Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath is dedicated to fostering its growth.”
Former Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Senior Advisor Rajiv Garg stressed the importance of developing tourism infrastructure at various eco-tourism sites in the state. “Our goal is to enhance visitor experiences while also benefiting local communities. We are particularly focusing on promoting homestays and locally made products. Young entrepreneurs interested in startups have a bright future in this field”, he said.
During the event an Eco-tourism expert Gurleen Kaur also noted the increasing public interest in eco-tourism destination will further lead to the development of the places and opne up all-around development for the local communities.
On the second day of the conclave, the board organized a quiz competition, attracting participation from 54 students. Parth Aryan Bhatt secured the first position, followed by Mohammad Waqar Moid who secured thesecond place, Ashish secured third while Piyush and Aditya Srivastava secured the fourth and fifth position. The first prize winner received a tablet sponsored by HMD Mobile.
Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh said, “The Eco-Tourism board’s participation in the IIT Kanpur conclave aligns with the vision of creating awareness about the conservation of these sites among the youth and the global audience. We are confident that this initiative will yield positive results, and lead to the overall development of the local communities as well.”
The conclave provided an insightful platform for experts, students, and stakeholders, reinforcing the potential of eco-tourism in Uttar Pradesh and paving the way for sustainable tourism development.
