Bhubaneswar: The arrival of migratory birds along Odisha’s coastline is a sign of its healthy ecosystem and great climate, said Deputy Chief Minister and Tourism Minister Pravati Parida at the 6th National Chilika Bird Festival. This event took place at Lok Seva Bhawan on Tuesday and was organized by the Tourism and Forest, Environment, and Climate Change departments.
Parida emphasized the importance of protecting forests and natural resources. She pointed out that conservation is key for sustainable tourism. Monitoring the movement and habitats of these birds is essential for preserving Chilika’s biodiversity.
Forest, Environment and Climate Change Minister Ganesh Ram Singkhuntia, who was also there, stressed that environmental conservation is a priority for the state government. He described Chilika Lake as an ecological gem and a vital resource for local communities. The festival aims to boost its national and global profile.
Balwant Singh, Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Tourism department, discussed exciting initiatives to promote Chilika Lake as a prime eco-tourism spot. Suresh Pant, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, highlighted Chilika’s role in supporting local wildlife and livelihoods.
During the festival, several publications were launched, including a pocket guide featuring nearly 150 million bird observations, a magazine about flamingos, and a booklet on bird conservation in Odisha. An important Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the State Wildlife Organisation and the Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management (IITTM) to enhance eco-tourism in the region.
This event reflects a growing trend worldwide where eco-tourism is becoming essential not only for conservation but also for economic development. According to recent data from the World Tourism Organization, eco-tourism is one of the fastest-growing segments of the tourism industry, with a growth rate of 20% annually. By focusing on eco-tourism, Odisha can attract more visitors while promoting the health of its environment.
As communities increasingly recognize the value of nature, they often share their experiences on social media. Trending hashtags such as #BirdWatching and #EcoTourism highlight a growing interest in sustainable travel options. This reflects a shift in consumer preferences towards experiences that respect and protect the environment.
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IITTM,Lok Seva Bhawan,migratory bird,National Chilika Bird Festival,Pravati Parida
