The Forest and Environment and Culture and Tourism Departments signed an MoU at the State Secretariat here on Thursday to jointly develop the ecotourism spots in the State.
The MoU was signed in the presence of Forest and Environment Minister Bikram Keshari Arukh, Culture and Tourism Minister Ashok Panda and Chief Secretary AP Padhi.
Tourism Secretary Arti Ahuja said there is plenty of opportunities for ecotourism in the State.
In the current year, 10,000 tourists visited the eco-tourism spots in the State. The eco-tourism potential of the State has been highlighted in various international and national forums.
Forest and Environment Secretary Suresh Mohapatra there is lot of scope for eco-tourism in the forests, sanctuaries and coastal regions of the State. After signing of the MoU, the Forest and Environment Department and Tourism Department will jointly develop, maintain and market the eco tourism spots. As a result, the number of tourist arrivals will increase in the State.
Tourism Department Director Nitin Bhanudas Jhawle said the Forest and Environment Department would develop the tourist spots infrastructure, accommodation and food and visits of the tourists.
The Tourism Department will look after publicity; construct roads, put up sign boards. In the first phase 30 tourist spots in 22 districts have been decided to be developed.
