Kumari Palany & Co

TAMILNADU GOVERNMENT UNVEILS ECO TOURISM POLICY

Posted on: 08/Jun/2010 12:45:13 AM

M.K.Stalin Deputy Chief Minister released Eco Tourism Policy, which was received by Tourism Minister Suresh Rajan in Chennai on Monday in the presence of Forest Minister N.Selvaraj.The State government`s Eco Tourism Policy, unveiled by Deputy Chief Minister M.K.Stalin, envisage major role for local communities in its implementation and the involvement of local communities without affecting their local cultural ethos as one of its important governing principles. The document of 50 pages, spells that resources traditionally used by them to be harnessed whenever required.

Activities and facilities will be developed in consultation with the communities. Mechanisms will be in place to ensure flow of benefits to the communities. Land and property rights of indigenous and local communities will be respected. Any transgression into the communities` cultural sovereignty – their protected, sensitive and sacred sites and their traditional knowledge – shall be avoided.

The integrity, serenity and natural values of destinations will be ensured through appropriate travel choice and responsible behaviour of visitors, who will be briefed about the qualities and sensitivities of destinations. Only activities and facilities having least impact on natural resources and the local culture will be permitted.

As for strategies on the involvement of local communities, employment will be provided to the communities by enlisting their services in the manufacturing of boats, cooking, rescue operations and maintenance of the premises. Apart from providing skills and formal education, the communities can be given benefits, keeping in mind the future of their children. Opportunities can be provided to them for showcasing their skills in handicrafts and pottery.

The development of and adherence to rules and guidelines on stakeholder participation, impact mitigation and technical procedures is one among the governing principles.

The compliance with standards in terms of quality and safety in developing and operating eco tourism facilities and activities will be given the highest priority.

The model of Public-Private Partnership will be encouraged to mobilize investment in infrastructure development on site. Creation of environmental awareness among all sections and age groups, especially youth, will be a major activity for each eco-tourism destination. A shelf of eco tourism projects may be identified by line departments, especially the Forest Department. The Tourism Department wilill act as the nodal agency for clearing various projects prepared by the line departments and their funding.

Priority will be given to development of places, closer to existing popular destinations and lesser-known eco tourist spots so that infrastructure development will be kept at bare minimum. Suitable eco-tourism destinations will be identified and tied up with the existing circuits.

A nine-member official committee, headed by Chief Secretary, will be formed to monitor the implementation and coordinate various stakeholder agencies.