Patna: The Bihar government has taken a major step towards transforming the state’s natural resources into attractive tourism destinations. At the Eco-Tourism Investors Meet organized by the Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department on Monday, the government invited private investors to participate in the development of dams, ponds, lakes, and other natural sites across the state.
The initiative aims to boost tourism, create employment opportunities for local communities, and strengthen the rural economy by promoting sustainable eco-tourism projects.
The event was inaugurated by Bihar Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Dr. Ram Chandra Prasad and Additional Chief Secretary Anand Kishor.
29 Large Dams to Be Developed as World-Class Eco-Tourism Centres
During the investors’ meet, the Bihar government announced plans to develop 29 major dams across the state into world-class eco-tourism destinations.
Additional Chief Secretary Anand Kishor said that the development of eco-tourism projects will be carried out in two phases. In the first phase, large dams will be selected and upgraded with modern tourism facilities to attract visitors.
These projects will focus on creating destinations that combine natural beauty with recreational activities, helping Bihar emerge as a new tourism hub.
Development of 247 Ponds and Water Bodies in Second Phase
In the second phase of the project, the government plans to develop 247 large ponds and water bodies at the block level and connect them with tourism activities.
The initiative aims to bring tourism development to rural areas and provide new economic opportunities for villages. These water bodies will be upgraded with facilities that can attract tourists while supporting local businesses.
Government Invites Expressions of Interest from Investors
The Bihar government has invited Expressions of Interest (EOI) from private investors for various eco-tourism projects.
According to officials, each project will have a separate design and development plan. The projects will be implemented through the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) model to encourage private participation.
Under this system, if a project requires an investment of around ₹20 crore, priority will be given to the investor who requires the lowest financial support from the government.
The government has also assured investors that rules and procedures will be simplified to ensure smooth implementation of projects.
Projects to Be Developed on 30-Year Lease Model
Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) Arvinder Singh said that several major eco-tourism projects have been proposed in areas such as Nalanda, Nawada, Munger, and Kusheshwarsthan.
These projects will be developed through a 30-year lease model, allowing private players to create and manage tourism infrastructure while supporting long-term development.
Employment Opportunities for Local Youth
The Bihar government believes that the eco-tourism initiative will create thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities for local communities.
The development plans include facilities such as:
- Hotels and resorts
- Home-stay accommodations
- Boating and water-based activities
- Adventure tourism facilities
- Local handicraft markets
- Regional food and cultural experiences
These activities are expected to provide new income sources for rural residents and promote local businesses.
Bihar Aims to Transform Its Tourism Landscape
The state government believes that developing dams, ponds, and natural landscapes will significantly change Bihar’s tourism map.
By combining private investment with government support, the eco-tourism projects are expected to promote sustainable tourism, improve rural infrastructure, and bring economic growth to villages.
The initiative marks a major move by Bihar towards creating modern tourism destinations while preserving and utilizing its natural resources effectively.
