Environmental Information System (ENVIS) is a plan programme of the Ministry of Environment and Forest, Government of India. ENVIS is a decentralized system using the distributed network of data bases to ensure integration of national efforts in environmental information collection, storage, retrieval and dissemination to all concerned including policy planners, decision makers, research workers and the public.   

 Objectives:

1. Long-term objectives

·         To build up a repository and dissemination Centre in Environment Science and Engineering;

·         To gear up the modern technologies of information acquisition, processing, storage, retrieval and dissemination of environmental information;

·         To support and promote research, development and innovation in environmental information technology.

 

2. Short-term objective

·         To provide national environmental information service relevant to present needs and capable of development to meet the future needs of the users, originators, processors and disseminators of information;

·         To build up storage, retrieval and dissemination capabilities, with the ultimate objectives of disseminating information speedily to the users;

·         To promote national and international co-operation and liaison for exchange of environment related information;

·         To promote, support and assist education and personal training programmes designed to enhance environmental information processing and utilization capabilities;

·         To promote exchange of information amongst developing countries.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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International FloriShow 2008                          Source:www.sikkimflorishow.com

Background

Tourism and Floriculture are two of the important sectors the government has been focusing on developing in the State. In line with this, it was decided by the Government of Sikkim to host an International FloriShow mainly to showcase the state’s floricultural wealth and also to promote tourism while providing international exposure to the local farmers.

 

Objectives

• Promote tourism in Sikkim.
• Showcase the Floral potential of the state.
•  Promote Floriculture in Sikkim by :

1.  Providing flower growers of Sikkim an International Exposure for understanding the Global trends of Floriculture Development and Flori-business. 
   2.  Keeping pace with the advancement of World Floriculture.

 3.  Highlighting Sikkim as a Floriculture state/ destination.

 

Venue

The venue for the International FloriShow is at Saramsa Gardens situated about 14 Kms from Gangtok on the Gangtok-Pakyong Highway

 

 

 

The Event

Sikkim International FloriShow 2008 is being organized at Gangtok from 14-16th March 2008 primarily to showcase the floriculture potential and developments in the state. Floriculture in Sikkim and the North East is emerging as one of the opportunities with great prospects to turn the tide of rural economy.
      This mega event will serve as a platform for all floriculture stakeholders to exchange ideas and share experiences. As a part of this event FloriShow Summit 2008 is being held to deliberate on important issues which are likely to impact the overall development of Floriculture in the North East and the country as a whole.

FloriShow Summit 2008 will involve eminent speakers from the Internationalarena in addition to renowned experts from the country. The summit will address issues relating to quality improvement with main focus on marketing. The theme of the summit “promoting Sikkim as a floriculture destination” will help us to strategize our floriculture development plans for the future

 

 

 

 

Exhibition

International FloriShow 2008 is a window that will showcase our floriculture and tourism potential opening doors to new opportunities. This will be a common platform for every stakeholder to come together and build camaraderie to foster floriculture development in the country. This event will attract a large number of people to celebrate the spirit of festivity while savoring the fragrance of Sikkim orchids. A three day international show will provide glimpses of various floriculture development scenario and different technological advancements made in this sector throughout the world. A month long exhibition within the premises will provide a wonderful view of Sikkim orchids that are the pride and glory of our state, symbolizing our biodiversity potential. This event seeks to bring to farmers' doorstep the latest greenhouse technology, irrigation systems, production support systems, other logistics & transportation and marketing & export support. The potential entrepreneurs will come to meet and know about different financial institutions, latest hybrids, post harvest management, floral designers, floral wholesalers and input suppliers. One display will be cut flowers, pot flowers, pot plants, dried flowers and floral handicrafts, cut greens and ferns and tissue culture plants

 

 

Conference

Top technical experts from all over the globe are being invited to deliberate on important issues, including opportunities for floriculture in Sikkim. Importers from leading countries will be asked to spell out their quality parameters. This will give an opportunity for all to interact and explore joint venture or tie up possibilities. Leading Indian corporate houses and investors are also being invited who are expected to open doors to new opportunities

 

Workshop & Training Program

Farmers will be provided hands-on-training at the venue on various activities for successful floriculture. International experts will be present to share their experiences and exchange of ideas. Workshops to be organized will have such themes as production, post harvest handling and processing, greenhouse management, management of pests and diseases, value addition and world quality standards and overall techno-management

 

Buyer-Seller Meet

The meet will facilitate interaction of buyers and suppliers from all over India and many parts of the world. Auction centre representatives, exporters and wholesalers from consuming and exporting countries, supermarket and large scale retailer are being invited along with leading bouquet makers and representatives of import associations

 

 

 

Scaly Winged Wonders of Sikkim

Bhoj Kumar Acharya, Karma Zimpa Bhutia IFS, Sandeep Tambe IFS and S.Anbalagan IFS

 

Insects have catered to the aesthetic needs of human beings since time immemorial. They represent a diverse group of small organisms starting from disgusting mosquitoes, bedbugs, flies to highly beneficial silkworm,

 honey bee, lac insect and resplendent butterflies.   Butterflies are  beautiful insects that have scaly wings.           The different colour of scales determines the colour pattern of butterfly.  They are active during daytime and can be seen fluttering from one flower to another in search of nectar.  There are four stages in the life cycle of butterfly.  They are egg, caterpillar, pupa and adult.  The butterflies that we see represent the adult stage.  A butterfly completes its life cycle in about 3 months, however an adult butterfly lives only for 15-20 days. We often consider moths also as butterflies but both of them are entirely different organisms having distinct characteristics.  Moths, like butterflies, also are insects with scaly wings.  They have more scales and hair than butterflies.  They are active mostly during night and are attracted to light. They are not as colourful as butterflies. The moths and butterflies also differs in flying patterns and other behaviours.

 

              Owing to the high variation in vegetation and climate and its unique geographical location, Sikkim represents one of the hotspots of butterflies in the world. Out of about 1500 species of butterflies in India, nearly 700 species are found in the state.  Sikkim represents a mere 0.2% of the geographical area of the country, but harbours nearly 50% of the butterfly diversity.

 

The high diversity of butterflies has endowed them to inhabit different habitats, forests and climatic conditions. They are found everywhere right from the tropical valleys to the alpine meadows.  However they are more abundant in the hot, humid river valleys and their number reduces with altitude. In Sikkim some of the butterfly hotspots are Namprikthang in Dzongu, Rangrang, 32 number camp, Namphing-Pabong near Sirwani, Theeng near Chungthang and Legship. The butterflies shows distinct seasonal pattern. The spring months of March, April and May and the autumn months of October and November are the best seasons for observing butterflies. During peak monsoons from June to August and peak winter from December to February the number of butterflies goes down. Sunny mornings between 8am to 12 noon are best for observing butterflies.

 

 

Pictorial field guides aid in butterfly identification. For Sikkim “The Butterflies of Sikkim Himalaya and their Natural History” by Meena Haribal is the best field guide covering 400 species of butterflies. Patience is the virtue of butterfly watching.  Wait for them to come to you. Butterflies are not only fragile but also shy and hence care should be taken not to disturb and catch them. Carry a good field guide for field identification. A camera will be an added benefit. They bask early in the sunny mornings, which is the best time to photograph them.

 

        Butterflies exhibit different kinds of behaviour. They are seen puddling in muddy ground, basking on plants or rocks, sailing majestically in the air, fluttering in the flowers and flying high above the treetops. Like birds, butterflies also migrate. They have directional movement from one place to another, often long distances upto 3000km, in search of food, mate and shelter. Patrolling behaviour, usually exhibited by male butterflies, by way of random movement within their territory to keep away other butterflies. They also have hill topping behaviour which is the tendency of butterflies to occupy vantage positions especially tree tops, hilltops to identify food sources. Sometimes many butterflies of different species congregate in wet, muddy grounds to obtain minerals. Basking i.e. sitting flat on any surface with their wings open to warm themselves is usual behaviour exhibited by butterflies in the early morning hours.

 

Butterflies have many important roles in nature. They play a vital role in pollination of flowers. They also are important food for birds, lizard, spiders, preying mantis and other organisms. Owing to their resplendent colours and patterns they add to nature’s beauty and of late butterfly parks have been developed to attract tourists. Being sensitive to changes in environment, they are good indicators of changes in climate, habitat and environment. Conservation of butterflies is a great challenge among present day ecologist. Habitat damage resulting from construction activities and spreading of weeds pose a distinct threat to the long-term survival of butterflies. It causes the loss of larval food plants and adult breeding and feeding microhabitat. Collection of butterflies for commercial purposes poses another threat.

 

  

           All the butterflies of the state are protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Act – 1972. Catching or killing butterflies even in your own backyard can put you behind bars. Butterflies like Kaiser-I-Hind, Bhutan Glory and some Apollos are so rare and protected that killing them invites the same punishment as killing a tiger or lion.

 

 

 

The beauty, behaviour and the variation in size of butterflies astonish anyone who carefully observes them. The largest butterfly of Sikkim is Common birdwing (wing span- 14-19 cm), whose size is equivalent or even larger than some of the smallest birds. The smallest butterfly of Sikkim is a Common brownie (wing span 1.4-2.5 cm), having few mm body size. Many species such as Bhutan Glory, Red Appollo, Blue Tiger are rare & endangered. Sikkim is also blessed with many beautiful butterflies. Kaiser-I-Hind, Bhutan Glory, Peacocks and Appollos are magnificent scaly winged insects.

 

Preservation of these glorious insects and their habitats is desperately required. Butterflies are also nature’s creation and have equal right to live in this earth. Protect them and their habitats. Observe them whenever there is an opportunity. Who knows your observation might be unique information to science. Apart from these, we can also initiate butterfly tourism in select hotspots to add another dimension to the tourism sector.

 

 

 

 

Ecotourism initiatives in Kerala

 

 

T.P. Narayanan Kutty,IFS  

Director Ecotourism,

Kerala Tourism,

Government of Kerala.

Kerala – with its miles of serene beaches, tranquil stretches of emerald backwaters, pristine valleys and mountains, exotic species of rare flora and fauna, wild life sanctuaries and national parks has immense potential for ecotourism. Kerala Tourism has initiated several steps in this direction.

 

To give a focus for the ecotourism development in Kerala, Kerala Tourism has set up a Directorate for ecotourism. The Ecotourism Directorate has identified 56 spots round the state as potential ecotourism spots keeping in mind the objective of giving emphasis to conservation, ecological sustainability, environmental education and local community benefits. 

 

The ecotourism potential spots in Thiruvananthapuram district identified includes the Neyyar, Peppara Wildlife Sanctuaries, Ponmudi hill station and Agasthyavanam Biological Park. At present, the activities include conducting nature camps, visiting the crocodile rehabilitation center, lion safari, deer rehabilitation center, trekking, bird-watching and boating in the reservoirs in both the sanctuaries.

 

In Kollam District is India’s first planned ecotourism destination – Thenmala. Shenduruney Wildlife sanctuary is the ecotourism resource for the destination. As a conscious management strategy a familiarization zone is created offering eco friendly facilities like elevated walkway, suspension foot bridge, nature trail, river crossing, rock climbing, mountain biking, board walk, boating in the Wildlife Sanctuary, Soft Trekking, Deer Rehabilitation center, a children’s eco park and lots more. Palaruvi Waterfalls nearby is managed by the local community by offering basic necessary facilities for tourists and simultaneously conserving the forest ecosystem.  Other potential spots identified include, Arippa forests on the bank of Kulathupuzha River, and the forests of Achankovil.

 

Konni in Pathanamthitta District is identified with elephants and elephant stories. An ecotourism programme focusing the elephant camp with community participation is on the anvil. This destination will be a paradise for the tourists interested in the activities like trekking, rock climbing, elephant safari, wilderness camping, river rafting, wildlife watching and bird watching..

 

Idukki District is a treasure trove for ecotourism programmes. The Ecotourism programmes carried out by the local community at Periyar Tiger Reserve, Thekkady have already got a place in the international map of ecotourism destinations. Every trekking programme is unique in itself. The trekking programmes and other conservation programmes planned focusing Eravikulam National Park, highlights the conservation of the Endemic and endangered Nilgiri Thar. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is again going to be a nature enthusiast’s look out destination. Thomankoothu waterfalls, a series of 12 falls, spread over a distance of 5 km located 20 km from Thodupuzha provides an opportunity to experience the evergreen forests. Painav forests and the reservoir is budding with new ecotourism initiatives.

 

Nelliampathy hills about 1000m above mean sea level in Palakkad district is an upcoming ecotourism destination offering trekking, camping opportunities. Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, endowed with luxuriant vegetation and a variety of magnificent wild life is coming up with tented Camping facilities for the ecotourists and a safari through the park.

 

Nilambur forests in Mallapuram district is synonym to teak plantations and elephants. Conolley’s Plot – the oldest teak plantation in the world, trekking and wilderness trails are on the developing stage.

 

The Wayanad wildlife sanctuary and the pristine forests in the Wayand District will soon be a look out for real ecotourists. The Kuruva islands, the Pookot lake and Thirunelli forests will extend the stay of ecotourists for days.

 

Kozhikode district will present the ecotourism products at Thusharagiri waterfalls, Janakikad, Peruvannamuzhy and Kakkayam.

 

A six km trek to Pythalmala in Kannur District and experiencing the meadows at the top of the hills with small patches of Shola forests and providing a panoramic view will be thrown to tourists soon. Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary, which supports a variety of animals and plants and with the magnificent Meenmutty waterfall, is opened to tourists.

 

The Southern Ecotourism Circuit is conceived in the southern stretch of the Western Ghat. The northern and southern stretch of Western Ghat are separated by the Palakkad pass. The circuit starts from Neyyar in Thiruvananthapuram District and ends with Nelliampathy in Palakkad District. The intervening ten spots are identified as most important Ecotourism locations include Neyyar – Ponmudi – Thenmala - Konni – Gavi – Thekkady - Munnar – Chinnar – Parambikulam – Nelliampathy. Each one of will provide unique and varied experiences to a visitor. The project envisages upgrading the existing facilities as well as adding new attractions. This circuit is expected to provide great fillip to the ecotourism initiatives in Kerala.

 

All the ecotourism initiatives in the forest areas are led by the committee of forest dependent community called Eco Development committees or the Vana sanrakshana Samithis. These initiatives helps in channellising the benefits of ecotourism to the local people, which will ultimately elicit support of local community for conservation and forest protection. The VSS/ EDC members will be trained in the operation of ecotourism activities and they manage the destination. The Programmes will be marketed by the Department of Tourism.

 

The Ecotourism Directorate of Kerala Tourism, has developed a book titled “Stars and Trees - Trees of Nakshatravanam” with technical support from Tropical Botanical Garden and Research Institute (TBGRI), Palode, Thiruvananthapuram. The book is a treasure trove of existing information on the symbiotic relationship prevailing between man and trees. The Directorate has decided to utilise this concept of Nakshatravanam to promote tree planting. At “Thenmala Ecotourism”, a Nakshatravanam comprising of the 27 trees associated with the stars has been established so as to create awareness among the visitors. Software has been developed to find ones own birth star and tree by knowing date of birth. This finds useful for the foreign tourist. A foreign tourist if interested can plant a tree associated with him at the hotel premises where he stays, provided the resort owner facilitates for that. The private sector in tourism industry has evinced interest in such an innovative programme whereby even the resort owner can get a repeat foreign customer who may be motivated to come back to see the tree planted after a few years. This proves that “being eco-friendly is a economically viable business proposition” also.

 

 

The Directorate of Ecotourism has also commenced a new certification programme for the hospitality sector, which provides certificates of different grade viz, Ordinary Member, Club Member, and Diamond Member on the basis of fulfilment of certain environment conditions. The ultimate goal is to make Kerala, Gods Own Country as one of the most sought after eco-friendly destinations in the world.

 

 

Culture: The hidden aspect of Eco-tourism.

 

The definition of Ecotourism holds that it is the development of tourism keeping in view the Environment & the local Culture intact. However in analyzing the importance of ecotourism it is often seen that the second variable local culture is overshadowed by the first variable environment. Thus protection of local culture is often lost in trying to link ecotourism with nature. When speaking about an ecotourism destination the first thing that comes to ones mind is the beautiful snow covered mountains, waterfalls, beaches, corals, lakes and scenic spots. The songs, the dances, the custom & traditions and the way of life of the people are the lesser seeked variables to make an area an ecotourism destination.

Their has been much debate over the negative impacts of tourism, the most seeking attention is the impact over our culture. It is seen over the years that the powerful societies tend to make tremendous impact upon the weaker societies. Thus a tourist slinging a walkman, with a tattoo and torn jeans makes the youths of the host societies prone to imitation leading to acculturation. The towns and the cities no doubt with the easy accessibility to media and technology are prone to ‘cultural contamination’ and tourism cannot wholly be attributed for that. However when tourism tend to disturb the indigenous life at the villages it demands intervention. The impact can be best seen on the Jarawas of the Andamans. Jarawa Tourism which has been an important part of Andaman Tourism has exposed the tribes to the outside world which has made a great impact upon the way of life of the Jarawas. Tour operators take tourists to places like Baratang, Rangat, Mayabunder, Diglipur, through Andaman Trunk Road who drop gifts and edible items like banana, packs of biscuit or clothes to the Jarawas thereby creating demand for such items. Thus Jarawas today has given up their strong psycho-physical hostility towards the aliens and their indomitable faith in their own strength and their cultural strength has gradually disappeared now, probably not fully realizing the ultimate consequences on themselves.They would be susceptible to socio - economic domination of non- Jarawas unless the control measures are taken.

Tourism may also sometimes give rise to cultural clashes as a result of differences in cultures, ethnic and religious groups, values and lifestyles, languages, and levels of prosperity The result can be an overexploitation of the social carrying capacity (limits of acceptable change in the social system inside or around the destination) and cultural carrying capacity (limits of acceptable change in the culture of the host population) of the local community. This may result the host populations dislikeness towards the tourists and anti-tourist attitudes begin growing among local people. For example, in many places of India, strict standards exist regarding the appearance and behavior of women. Tourists in these places may  often disregard or maybe  unaware of these standards, ignoring the prevalent dress code, appearing half-dressed (by local standards) in revealing shorts, skirts or even bikinis, sunbathing topless at the beach or partying with loud music in residential areas. Besides creating ill-will, this kind of behavior can be misleading for local youths not to respect their own traditions and religion anymore, leading to tensions within the local community.

Although, the importance of the tourism sector’s contributions to the economy cannot be dismissed, this sector no doubt generates a host of unfavorable effects on the country’s culture. A host society’s culture can be taken as a souvenir by the tourists but when the tourist’s culture remains with the host society, it may have a different implication.

 Thus for a win-win situation i.e. development of tourism and culture at the same time a practice of

ecotourism needs to be inducted in a culturally rich destination as ours. The interdependency of tourism and culture can be best explained and supported by a concept called ecotourism. The development of tourism should be undertaken within the parameters of ecotourism to guide the guest and the host population simultaneously so that sustainability is ensured in terms of tourism and culture at the same time. Concepts like home stays, rural tourism etc is emerging very popular with the tourists in want of something new. However its development and sustainability can be ensured only through following the guidelines of ecotourism. The popularity of the concept of ecotourism holds importance both in terms of protecting the environment and culture thus.

 

Econews:

Sikkim bags the most picturesque destination award 

Sikkim Tourism once again bagged prestigious award on the 60th Year of Independence, as per a press release received from Commissioner- cum- Secretary, Tourism. A proud moment indeed for all Sikkimese.
Sikkim has been awarded and recognized as “the most picturesque destination” by Today’s Traveller, a leading national Travel Magazine. The award was received on behalf of the State by Mr. G.P. Upadhyaya, Commissioner-cum-Secretary on August 21, at a glittering award ceremony in Hotel Ashoka Convention Hall.
The award was presented by the Union Tourism Minister, Mrs. Ambika Soni, who while presenting the award urged the august gathering for bigger applause and lauded the State of Sikkim for maintaining peace and harmony. She remarked that Sikkim has gone leaps and bounds in promoting eco-tourism and has safeguarded nature’s wealth in all its bounty. She personally congratulated the Chief Minister, Dr. Pawan Chamling for spearheading the development of the State and tourism in particular in right earnest.
Sikkim Tourism takes this opportunity to thank all Sikkimese people and other stakeholders for making Sikkim as a picturesque destination and putting it firmly on the global tourism map. Let us endeavour to make Sikkim an all seasons destination, the release further adds.

Source: Sikkim Herald ,Dated: 27^th August 2007

 

MINISTRY OF TOURISM SANCTIONS RS. 323 CRORE FOR VARIOUS TOURISM PROJECTS IN THE COUNTRY

The Ministry of Tourism (MOT) gives special importance to improve the quality of tourism infrastructure all over the country. The Ministry has sanctioned several projects allover the country. These projects propose to create high class tourism infrastructure and facilities which will provide an opportunity for unique experience to the visitors. The Ministry of Tourism extends Central Financial Assistance to the State Governments/UT’s for Product/Infrastructure Development of Destinations and Circuits. During the XIth Five Year Plan period a double-pronged strategy of upgrading the tourism infrastructure and vigorous marketing under the banner of ‘Incredible India Campaign’ was followed to position India as a global brand.

During 11^th Five Year Plan (2007-2012) Ministry of Tourism propose to continue supporting creation of world class infrastructure in the country so that existing tourism products can be further improved and expanded to meet new market requirements and enhance the competitiveness of India as a tourist destination. In consultation with the State Governments and UT’s the Ministry of Tourism have identified several tourist circuits and destinations for integrated development.

During the current financial year the Ministry has sanctioned so far Rs.323.00 crore for various projects throughout the country.  This is an all time record and will facilitate timely execution of projects during the working season.

Some of the important infrastructure projects which have been     sanctioned in the current financial year are:

A.       Heritage Destinations/Circuits

I.                    MOT has recently sanctioned Rs.8.00 crore for the project of illumination/lighting of monuments in Rajasthan.

II.                   The tourist facilities at Sanchi and adjoining tourist places in Madhya Pradesh are being improved at a cost of Rs.4.64 crore. Tourist Facilitation Centre, Public Amenities, Parking and Landscaping and Beautification of approach roads will be done.

III.                 The project of Development of Mahanadi Central Heritage (Rs.3.94 crore) has been sanctioned. In this project Jetties, River Bank, Nature Trail, picnic area, etc. will be developed at various places along the river to enhance the experience of visitors to these destinations.

IV.                An Indian Freedom Circuit on Mahatama’s Park in West Bengal is being developed at a cost of Rs.2.27 crore.

V.                 The project Bijapur-Bidar-Gulbarg Circuit sanctioned at a cost of Rs.6.40 crore.

VI.                Art & Craft village at Goregaon film city has been sanctioned for an amount of Rs.3.86 crore.

VII.              Revitalization of Gandhi Thidal and Craft Bazar, Puducherry sanctioned recently for an amount of Rs.2.67 crore.

VIII.             The project of Development of Srirangam Tamilnadu (Rs.3.72 lakh) has been sanctioned.

IX.                 Development of Vellore fort area at a cost of Rs.0.89 crore.

X.                  Sound & Talatal Ghar, Sivasagar in Assam (Rs.1.58 crore.) has been sanctioned.

B.        Beach and Sea Tourism

I.                     MOT has sanctioned a project of Rs.5.00 crore for development and beautification of Beach Promenade in Puducherry.

II.                   Another project for development of walkway along the bank of river Arasalar and Vanjiiar in Karaikal, Puducherry (Rs.4.78 crore)

III.                  The project of Development of Marina beach in Tamilnadu has been sanctioned (Rs.4.92 crore).

C.        Rural Tourism

      The Ministry has launched the redesigned website www.exploreruralindia.org which is very visitor friendly. 36 sites are being developed in collaboration with UNDP for Rural Tourism in various States. 15 sites have been completed and these places are ready for marketing from 31^st October, 2007. These projects will facilitate revival of art & craft, encouragement to local skills and pride in diversity. 

D.  Pilgrimage tourism including Development of Buddhist circuit

a)           An amount of Rs.4.67 crore for Integrated Development of Pilgrim Circuit at   Reetha Sahib and Nanak Matta in Uttaranchal has been sanctioned. Public facilities, bathing ghats, parks and Raien Basera at Reetha Saheb will be developed.   Nanda Devi temple will also be beautified in this project.

b)           MOT sanctioned a project of Ujjain Destination Development for an amount of Rs.4.73 crore.

E.       Eco tourism

I.                 A project of Eco tourism for development of Horsely Hill in Chittoor Distt. of Andhra Pradesh has been sanctioned.

 II.     The project of development of Satkosi in Orissa (Rs. 4.25 crore)  has been sanctioned in which Interpretation Centre, Landscaping, Elephant camps, Trekking park, Watch Towers and parking facilities, etc. are proposed to be developed.

III.     MOT has sanctioned a project for development of Eco tourism in Morni-Pinjore Hills and Sultanpur National Park in Haryana for which Rs. 2.63 crore have been sanctioned.

 IV.   The project of Integrated Development of Tribal Circuit with special focus on Eco tourism in Spiti in Himachal Pradesh has been approved for Rs. 6.98    crore.

V.      Development of Wayanad in Kerala for an amount of Rs.2.01 crore.

VI. Development of Tourist Circuit (Western Assam Circuit) Dhubari-Mahamaya-Barpeta-Hajo has been sanctioned for an amount of Rs.4.97 crore.

VII.   Development of Mechuka Destination (Rs.4.41 crore in Arunachal Pradesh).

VIII.  Development of Tourist Destination at Khensa at a cost of Rs.4.58 crore in Nagaland.

IX.     Circuit - Udhyamandalam- Madumalai- Anaimalai, Tamil Nadu Rs.4.39 crore.

F.        Projects for NE Region

I.        The INA Memorial Complex at Moirang in Manipur is being renovated and tourist facilities are being developed (Rs.82 lakhs).

II.      Tourism infrastructure is being developed near Pakhai Wildlife Sanctuary in  Arunachal Pradesh (Rs. 5.00 crore)

III.     Gayaker Sinyi Lake at Itanagar is being developed at a cost of Rs.5.00 crore.

IV.     Tourist infrastructure is being developed in Nathula-Memmencho-Kupup     tourist circuit in Sikkim (Rs.4.54 crore)

V.   MOT has sanctioned a project for development of Tizu Kukha as Adventure  Destination in Nagaland (Rs.4.99 crore)

G.       Projects for Jammu & Kashmir

                        MOT has sanctioned a project for development of tourism infrastructure in Leh (Rs.4.95 crore), Bungus Valley (Rs.2.31 crore), Kargil (Rs.4.84 crore), Poonch (Rs.4.50 crore), various villages around Sonmarg (Rs.1.08 crore), development of Gurez and Telail Valley (Rs.3.66 crore), Patnitop (Rs.2.83 crore), Dandi Pora (3.45 crore), Anantnag (Rs.2.1 crore), Shri Amarnath Yatra Marg (Rs.7.00 crore), Bhaderwah (Rs. 4.12 crore), Kishtwar (Rs. 2.81 crore), Wullar Lake (Rs.2.06 crore) and Rajouri (Rs.4.34 crore). Tourist Information Centre, Public amenities, approach roads, shelters and sign gages, etc. will be developed in these projects so that tourists who are visiting Jammu & Kashmir should have trouble free experience of  the beauty and bounty of the region

Source:PIB. Monday, October 15, 2007.

 

 

Lachen ready for promotion as rural tourism Department, claims Ministry.

 

Gangtok, 30 Oct.  The Union Ministry of Tourism is implementing Rural Tourism Scheme to promote Village Tourism as primary tourism product to spread tourism and its socio-economic benefits to rural and its new geographic regions in India.  The local community has been trained to manage the tourism site, all by its own for sustainability.  The community has been equipped through goal setting exercises in the maintenance of the site. 

            Among the 15 sites ready for marketing that have been identified are Lachen in North Sikkim.  Ballavpur Danga of Birbhum district in West Bengal, Nagaar in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh,  Nepura in Nalanda  district of Bihar,  Sualkuchi in Kamin Kamrup district of Assam and other places in Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka,  Kerala, Rajasthan, Gujarat,  Haryana,  Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh.

            The 10^th Five Year Plan has identified tourism as one of the major sources of generating sustainable livelihood and employment in India.  Rural Tourism is showcasing arts and crafts in its life and traditional setting and providing a platform for tourists to experience rural ambience.

            Concept of home stays with food, clean water & toilets being promoted among host community.  Capacity building for sensitization community in preparing and serving traditional cuisine & interacting with visitors.  Improvement in cleanliness and hygiene in the village and environmental awareness.  Guide training among local youths for helping tourists in understanding and appreciating the unique aspects of villages.

            Ministry of Tourism is supporting rural tourism festival at Delhi haat.  New Delhi from 3^rd to 5^th November 2007 and IITF from 14^th to 27^th November 2007 and a campaign on rural Tourism in print & Electronic media.

Source: NOW,Dated: 31 October 2007

 

Singalila trek in Sikkim reopened with changes

Gangtok, Nov. 13: Closed for over two-and-a-half years, Sikkim’s most famous trekking trail is back in business but with changes in the route.
A 14-member Italian team was the first to follow the Singalila trail in West Sikkim on November 5 after a government notification announced its reopening in October.
The route was closed in January 2005 after the Union home ministry objected to the trail passing through Nepal in several places, including a camp at Nepal Megu. The Centre had then told the Sikkim government to make alterations in the trail so that it did not enter the neighbouring country. The state tourism department closed the route for two years to make necessary modifications.
Considered one of the most breathtaking treks in the world, the Singalila trail is at an elevation of more than 3,000m with a view of the Himalayan range, including Mt Everest and Kanchenjunga.
In June this year, in a bid to find a new and alternative route, a recce was organised. It was led by joint secretary (adventure) B.R. Subba and officials from the state tourism and forest departments, members of the Travel Agents’ Association of Sikkim (TAAS) and representatives of Sikkim Association of Adventure Tour Operators(SAATO)
They identified a new route, which in fact was a very old trail used during the time of the Chogyals, without touching Nepalese territory and recommended it to the government.
The amended trek trail also starts at Uttarey with three exit points in Yuksom, Hillay and Nambu-Darap. But the new route takes only 12 days against the earlier 16 days.
“We are very happy that the route has reopened. The people of Uttarey and surrounding areas will benefit since it is always a sold-out trail,” said Lukendra Rasaily, TAAS treasurer and managing director of Sikkim Tours and Travels.
The best time for a Singalila trek is from September to November and between April and June

 

                      Source: The Sikkim Times

 

EXISTING NATIONAL ECO TOURISM POLICY NEEDS TO BE REVIVED IN THE LIGHT OF THE ONGOING INTERNATIONAL DEBATE ON CLIMATE CHANGE : AMBIKA SONI

The Tourism and Culture Minister Smt. Ambika Soni has said that at a time when the entire world is talking about the climate change and conservation of natural resources, it is important to formulate comprehensive guidelines for adventure tourism.  Inaugurating the 6^th Annual Convention of the Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) here today the Minister said she also agrees that the existing national eco tourism policy needs to be revived in the light of the ongoing international debate on climate change.  She said she has often come across complaints that bio-diversity is being eroded further on account of adventure, world life and eco-tourism.  There was a genuine concern that adventure tourists are not only polluting the place but have little regard for conserving the existing natural resources.    The Minister cautioned the ATOAI that if they wish to expand the scope of adventure tourism, they need to be careful and how they pursue it.  Smt. Soni said responsible tourism in any form will not only help to preserve the natural resources but would enable generate revenue for the betterment of the place and the local communities.

On this Occasion the Minister also released a special 30 second Television Commercial on Adventure Tourism and the Report on Incredible India campaign during 2007.

            The prime focus of this convention is to create widespread awareness about the multi-dimensional face of the Indian tourism sector. It seeks to promote India as one of the most exciting Adventure Tourism destinations in the world and intends focusing on the innumerable adventure and eco-tourism opportunities in the country

 

Source:PIB,Monday, December 17, 2007

 

Aquatic treat for Nandan Kanan visitors:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fishy tales for visitors

Bhubaneswar, Dec. 28: The Nandan Kanan Zoological Park is set to inaugurate its exclusive aquarium building tomorrow.

The world-class aquarium took Rs 53 lakh to be completed. “The cost makes sense, as zoos contribute significantly to conservation of wild species, particularly for populations whose numbers are declining,” explained the zoo director, Ajit Pattnaik, today.

This specialised project was assigned to IDCO, which came up with the project proposal, detailed plan and estimate for the 26 aquariums. This was followed by an agreement, executed by the additional president of CCF (wildlife) and chief wildlife warden of Orissa and the IDCO managing director on December 1, 2003.

The Ahmedabad Centre for Environment Education (CEE), supported by the Union forests and environment ministry was roped in for the purpose. The CEE with prior experience in installing a similar aquarium at Satapada Interpretation Centre, run by Chilika Development Authority, took up the job.

As many as 14 aquariums are now complete, equipped with in-situ filtration and recycling mechanism. Four among the ultra-modern glass aquariums are marine (salt water ones), while the rest are fresh water cages equipped with titanium chillers.

Of the 14 aquariums; two are larger marine aquariums, two smaller marine ones, six large fresh-water aquariums and four smaller fresh water ones.

“Marine aquariums are a big draw at any zoo, but at the same time they are very complex cages to maintain. They are expensive, too, as gadgets and components required to run an aquarium are imported,” said Pattnaik.

There would also be displays of education materials, through 30 translides and display boards set up with an estimated cost of Rs 10 lakh, for the zoo visitors

 

Source-The Telegraph Saturday , December 29 , 2007

 

 

Ecotourism initiative in the first capital of Sikkim.

 

Yoksam, December 29: A group of 17 volunteers supported by the Singapore Management University have participated in a collaborative effort with the  Khangchendzonga Conservation Committee (KCC) to promote eco-tourism  in Yoksam.

            As part of the university’s “Dare to Dream” initiative, the team has committed time and effort in promoting eco-tourism in Yoksam through enhancing KCC’s visitor information centre.  The team also aims to assist Yoksam village with the support of KCC in reaping and maximizing the sustainable benefits of ecotourism while minimizing the negative impact on the culture, environment and livelihood of the people of Yoksam.

            Various activities were accomplished to enhance the KCC visitor information center.  The activities included creating new brochures which include the new medical trails recently developed by KCC.  Other activities were revamping the current KCC  website, filming a documentary related to KCC  and creating tourist friendly maps that include tourist attractions in Yoksam.

            The interior of KCC’s visitor information centre was refurbished with new posters, shelves and banners to allow the centre to be a comprehensive one-stop information resource for conservation efforts in eco-tourism, details a press release.

            KCC is a community-based organization in Yoksam and aims to mitigate the negative impacts of tourism, conserve natural and cultural resources, provide training to community stakeholders, educate visitors and monitor resources and advocate for appropriate policy changes.

            Interestingly, the project team is made up of 12 students form the university and five hearing impaired participants.  To ensure smooth communication and team cohesion, the team went through a basic sign language course.

            The project team leader Koh Su Jun expressed joy especially when the students interacted well with the hearing impaired and achieved the goals set out set out by KCC and the team.

            Commenting on the partnership with KCC, Su Jun said, “We want to thank KCC for the opportunity provided.  This project will allow the Singaporean youths to focus on issues they usually don’t come in contact with back home.

            When asked about the project thus far, Mark Khoo, a member of the team, remarked that it was “an enriching and rewarding experience”.

            The team will also spend some time in the local homestays to interact with the community and further understand Sikkimese culture and lifestyle.  They will also attempt a five-day trek from Yoksam to Dzongri to catch a glimpse of the majestic Mount Khangchendzonga.

            Officially incorporated on January 16, 2000, Singapore Management University aims to educate future business leaders and creative entrepreneurs with the ability to excel in a rapidly changing world.

 

Source : Sikkim Express ,Dated: 30^th December 2007

 

Eco-events July-December 2007:

July 13                Lakes and Reservoirs:

                           A  Sustainable Vision of    

                          Tourism- Gyöngyös,   

                                       HUNGARY

August 10            2007 International Travel  

                            &    Tourism Expo- 

                            Chongqing , CHINA

August 19               AIEST (The 57^th

                               Congress of the

                               International Association

                                of Scientific Experts in

                               Tourism)-Macau,CHINA

September 05-08         ATLAS Annual Conference: Destinations revisited. Perspectives on developing and managing tourist areas -Viana do Castelo, PORTUGAL

September 24-25         Researching Destination Management, Policy and Planning- Riga, LATVIA

September 26-28         TIES 2007 North American Ecotourism Conference- Madison, Wisconsin

September 27-28         3rd European Congress on Rural Tourism- Hotel Eger Park, Eger, HUNGARY

October 01-03             2nd International Conference on Tourism and Climate Change- Davos, SWITZERLAND

October 03-06           International Seminar

                                   On Health Tourism

                                   - Sovata, ROMANIA

October 04-06             3rd Annual Adventure Travel World Summit- Telus Whistler Conference Center - Whistler, British Columbia, CANADA

November 06-08         International Meetings Conventions and Incentives Fair -  

Forteza de Basso, Florence, ITALY

November 11               Meeting of the Executive Committee of the Task Force to protect children from sexual exploitation in tourism-London, U.K.

November 12             Twenty-first meeting   

                                   of the task force to                                      

                                   sexual exploitation in      

                                   tourism-  London,U.K

November 13              Ministerial Summit

                                    on Tourism and 

                                  Climate Change, 

                                   London, U.K

November 16-18         ASTEX: Adventure             

                                   Sport Travel  Expo

                                    -Philadelphia, PA 

                                     (USA)

November 19-23        Ecotourism Austraila's  

                                    2007 National    

                                 Conference Melbourne,

                                     AUTRALIA

November 21                Second Moscow

                                    International Hotel     

                                    Forum and Exhibition

                                     Crocus City,

                                     MOSCOW.

December 03-06            International Golf 

                                      Travel Market, 

                                      Cancun, MEXICO

December 04-06           Luxury Travel

                                       Expo-Las Vegas, 

                                       Nevada, USA.

December 06-09            Arab World Travel  

                                       and Tourism  

                           Exchange, Beirut, 

                           LEBANON