“Uttar Pradesh launches new eco-tourism circuits, including safaris in Dudhwa and Pilibhit, to promote sustainable travel, conserve biodiversity, and create jobs. The ‘Buffer Mein Safar’ scheme engages local communities, offering immersive nature experiences while preserving wildlife habitats.”
Uttar Pradesh Launches New Wildlife Circuits to Boost Eco-Tourism
Uttar Pradesh is taking significant strides in promoting eco-tourism with the launch of new wildlife circuits aimed at showcasing its rich biodiversity and fostering sustainable travel. The state’s Forest and Wildlife Department has introduced the innovative ‘Buffer Mein Safar’ scheme, focusing on developing safari routes in the buffer zones of prominent tiger reserves like Dudhwa and Pilibhit. This initiative not only aims to attract nature enthusiasts but also emphasizes conservation and community involvement.
The new circuits include areas such as Dudhwa National Park, Pilibhit Tiger Reserve, and other wildlife sanctuaries, offering tourists a chance to explore dense forests, wetlands, and diverse fauna. Dudhwa, known for its swamp deer and tigers, and Pilibhit, a critical tiger conservation area, are at the forefront of this eco-tourism push. The state has also opened previously lesser-known sites like Amangarh Tiger Reserve and Sohagi Barwa Wildlife Sanctuary for jungle safaris, expanding access to Uttar Pradesh’s natural treasures.
A key feature of the initiative is its focus on sustainability. The ‘Buffer Mein Safar’ scheme ensures that tourism activities have minimal environmental impact by adhering to strict guidelines set by the Supreme Court and the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change. Eco-friendly accommodations, such as Tharu huts in Mohammadi, have been developed to provide authentic experiences while supporting local economies. These huts, along with amenities like watchtowers and canteens, are designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
Community engagement is a cornerstone of the program. The Uttar Pradesh Eco-Tourism Development Board, headquartered in Lucknow, is training local residents, including members of the Tharu tribal community, as guides and hospitality staff. This initiative not only creates employment opportunities but also fosters a sense of ownership among locals towards wildlife conservation. Products crafted by Tharu women, such as jute bags and incense sticks, are being promoted to tourists, adding a cultural dimension to the experience.
The state’s nine existing eco-tourism circuits—Bundelkhand, Vindhya Van, Ganga Basin, Braj Bhumi Wildlife, and others—have been further enhanced with these new additions. Natural attractions like the Rajdari and Devdari waterfalls in Chandauli and the Salkhan Fossil Park in Sonbhadra are also being promoted to diversify the offerings. The circuits aim to showcase Uttar Pradesh’s 16,582 sq km of forest cover, 26 wildlife sanctuaries, and 10 Ramsar wetlands, positioning the state as a top eco-tourism destination in India.
According to Prakhar Misra, additional director of the Uttar Pradesh Eco-Tourism Development Board, the state is also introducing curated eco-site tours and youth sensitization programs to raise awareness about conservation. The eco-tourism season, which runs from November 15 to June 15, has seen a surge in visitors since the introduction of these new circuits in 2022-23, with half a dozen sites opening for the first time.
The initiative aligns with India’s broader push for sustainable tourism, as outlined in the National Strategy for Sustainable Tourism (2022). The strategy emphasizes conserving natural resources, protecting biodiversity, and supporting local livelihoods. Uttar Pradesh’s efforts are expected to contribute to the state’s tourism revenue, which is part of India’s tourism sector that contributes 5-6.5% to the national GDP and employs around 43 million people. With the global eco-tourism market projected to grow significantly, Uttar Pradesh is poised to attract both domestic and international tourists seeking sustainable travel experiences.
The state government has allocated Rs 1.6 crore for developing tourist amenities in Mohammadi, South Kheri forest division, which is part of the Terai Elephant Reserve and home to tigers, elephants, and diverse bird species. This investment underscores the state’s commitment to balancing tourism growth with environmental preservation. By promoting lesser-known destinations and involving local communities, Uttar Pradesh is setting a benchmark for eco-tourism in India.
Disclaimer: This article is based on recent reports and information available from government sources, the Uttar Pradesh Eco-Tourism Development Board, and media outlets like The Times of India and The Indian Express. Data on tourism revenue and employment is sourced from Conservation India and the Ministry of Tourism. Always verify details with official sources before planning travel.