Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated Wildlife Week at Dehradun Zoo on Friday. On this occasion, he announced an increase in the compensation amount for human fatalities in wildlife attacks to 10 lakh rupees.
Dehradun: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated Wildlife Week at Dehradun Zoo on Friday. On this occasion, he laid special emphasis on wildlife conservation efforts, tourism, and employment opportunities for youth. The Chief Minister also announced an increase in the compensation amount for human fatalities in wildlife attacks to 10 lakh rupees.
Chief Minister Said - 'Wildlife is Our Faith'
The Chief Minister stated that wildlife is an integral part of our faith, culture, and tradition. He mentioned that Sanatan culture has symbolized a sense of oneness between humans and the animal kingdom. He further added that the state's greenery and wildlife conservation efforts make it attractive for tourism, drawing millions of domestic and international tourists.
Dhami said that approximately 14.77 percent of Uttarakhand's land is protected, including 6 National Parks, 7 Wildlife Sanctuaries, and 4 Conservation Reserves. This figure is significantly higher than the national average of 5.27 percent.
New Tourist Destination to be Developed in Every District
Referring to the inspiration from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Chief Minister stated that establishing a balance between Economy, Ecology, and Technology is the government's priority in the state. He directed the Forest Department to develop at least one new tourist destination in every district, which should be accessible to tourists while also preserving its natural form. He added that work is underway on a new eco-tourism model, enabling tourists to connect with forests and wildlife without causing any harm to nature.
The Chief Minister informed that due to the state government's conservation efforts, the population of rare wildlife species like tigers, leopards, elephants, and snow leopards has increased. However, challenges of human-wildlife conflict are also growing. To tackle this issue, modern technologies such as drones and GPS are being utilized. Simultaneously, livelihood opportunities are being provided to local communities so they can become active participants in forest conservation.
The Chief Minister mentioned the "CM Young Eco-preneur" scheme, stating that under this initiative, youth are being trained in various skilled roles related to nature guiding, drone piloting, wildlife photography, eco-tourism, and wildlife tourism. He also spoke of plans to establish Eco Clubs in every district of the state, where educational activities related to wildlife and the environment will be organized for students.
