Jalpaiguri, Oct. 25 -- The Forest department has launched an initiative around Gorumara National Park to strengthen forest conservation while creating alternative livelihood opportunities for local communities, with a particular focus on women's empowerment and community-based eco-tourism.
The initiative aims to promote small-scale enterprises through training in nature guiding, homestay management, local cuisine, handicrafts and cultural programmes, enabling residents to benefit from tourism while protecting the natural environment.
Recently, Anupama, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, North Bengal, participated in an interactive programme in Lataguri with members of self-help groups and schoolgirls. Discussions focused on the role of local women in conservation, employment opportunities and viewing forests from a tourist's perspective.
"The role of local communities is extremely important in forest conservation. Women living in areas surrounding forests have long maintained a close relationship with nature. Our objective is to utilise their experience and familiarity with forests to create alternative livelihood opportunities alongside conservation," Anupama said.
She added that eco-tourism could generate income through nature guiding, homestays, handicrafts and cultural activities. Involving schoolgirls, she said, could enhance their skills and confidence while opening up opportunities for future financial independence.
According to Forest department sources, the initiative covers two self-help groups comprising 27 members from Chhawapheli Forest village, along with six Joint Forest Management Committees.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.