Odisha, August 1, 2023: The Government of Odisha takes a significant step towards preserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable tourism by notifying three Biodiversity Heritage Sites (BHS) – Mandasaru Hills in Kandhamal district, Mahendragiri Hills in Gajpati district, and Gandhamardan Hills in Bolangir and Bargarh districts.
Recognizing the potential of community-based eco-tourism as an alternate source of livelihood for forest-dependent communities, the government has developed a Nature Camp at Mandasaru Hills and Gandhamardan Hills. The surrounding communities actively engage in eco-tourism activities, and the benefits are shared among them to supplement their livelihoods.
The eco-tourism activities at these destinations include visits to waterfalls, watchtowers, cycling, children’s parks, plantations, dining halls, nature walks, trekking, birding, and pilgrimages to places like Harishankar and Nrusinghnath.
To ensure efficient management of the Nature Camps, Eco Development Committees, Vana Sanrakshyana Samities, and Eco-tourism groups have been formed in the villages. In Mandasaru Valley Nature Camp, 16 Eco-tourism Group members are engaged, while Nrusinghnath Nature Camp has 06 Eco-tourism Group members actively participating.
Local people have also been trained as eco-guides, providing them with an alternate livelihood. The government conducts training programs in collaboration with the Institute of Hotel Management and Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management. These programs focus on hospitality, housekeeping, sanitation, communication skills, food cuisine, and check-in and check-out protocols to upgrade their skills.
The Odisha Biodiversity Board plays an active role in supporting these initiatives by providing funds for training and capacity building of Eco Development Committees, Vana Sanrakshyana Samities, and Eco-tourism Group members. These efforts aim to develop eco-guides capable of identifying rare and endangered species of flora and fauna, conserving indigenous species, and organizing trails and trekking routes to enhance awareness among eco-tourists.
The government’s focus on sustainable tourism in Biodiversity Heritage Sites not only preserves the rich natural heritage of Odisha but also fosters economic growth and empowerment of local communities. By promoting responsible tourism practices, the state of Odisha endeavors to create a harmonious coexistence between conservation and tourism for the benefit of present and future generations.
