Ranchi: Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren has directed officials to prepare a comprehensive roadmap for developing eco-tourism projects and establishing a Sports University in the state. The instructions were issued during a high-level review meeting of the Tourism, Art, Culture, Sports and Youth Affairs Department, where the government assessed achievements for the 2025–26 financial year and discussed priorities for the current fiscal year.
The Chief Minister emphasized the need for timely implementation of development projects to unlock Jharkhand’s tourism potential, strengthen sports infrastructure, and support artists across the state.
CM Hemant Soren Calls for Eco-Tourism Development Across Jharkhand
During the meeting at the Jharkhand Secretariat, CM Hemant Soren instructed officials to identify underground coal mining areas that can be transformed into eco-tourism destinations.
He also directed the department to prepare proposals for developing eco-tourism projects in several districts, including:
- Saraikela-Kharsawan
- East Singhbhum
- Giridih
- Latehar
- Hazaribagh
- Ranchi
The government believes these initiatives will promote sustainable tourism while creating new economic opportunities for local communities.
New Tourism Policy to Unlock Jharkhand’s Tourism Potential
Highlighting Jharkhand’s rich natural, religious, and historical heritage, the Chief Minister directed officials to prepare a new tourism policy for the state.
He also instructed departments to accelerate several tourism infrastructure projects, including:
- Faster development of Patratu View Point
- Planning ropeway projects at suitable tourist destinations
- Development of a Glass Bridge or Glass Watch Tower at Netarhat
- Upgrading the Koyal View Point
- Construction of tourist cottages
- Development of trekking routes and visitor facilities
- Promotion of eco-tourism at Lodh Waterfall
These projects are aimed at attracting more domestic and international tourists while improving visitor experiences.
Sports University Planned to Strengthen Sports Ecosystem
Reviewing the Sports Department, Chief Minister Hemant Soren said that athletes who win medals at national and international competitions should never be forced to abandon sports due to financial hardship.
He directed officials to:
- Prepare a comprehensive database of athletes
- Develop financial assistance and incentive schemes for economically weaker sportspersons
- Improve maintenance and facilities at the Mega Sports Complex in Sports Village
- Prepare a detailed action plan for establishing a Sports University in Jharkhand
The proposed Sports University is expected to strengthen sports education, training, and athlete development in the state.
Government to Create Database of Artists
While reviewing the Art and Culture Department, the Chief Minister instructed officials to prepare a comprehensive database of artists across Jharkhand.
He also directed:
- Verification of registered artists at the district level
- Organising exposure visits for artists
- Strengthening collaboration with cultural institutions in other states
The initiative aims to promote local talent and provide better opportunities for artists to showcase their work nationally.
Focus on Better Infrastructure and Inclusive Development
The review meeting focused on improving infrastructure and ensuring effective implementation of government initiatives in tourism, sports, arts, and youth development.
The government’s priorities include:
- Sustainable eco-tourism
- Modern sports infrastructure
- Support for athletes
- Promotion of local art and culture
- Better tourism facilities
- Employment and livelihood generation through tourism
Officials were directed to prepare detailed project reports and ensure timely execution of all approved initiatives.
Senior Officials Attend Review Meeting
The review meeting was attended by:
- Tourism, Art, Culture, Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Sudivya Kumar
- Chief Secretary Avinash Kumar
- Department Secretary Mukesh Kumar
- Senior government officials from the concerned departments
The meeting concluded with the Chief Minister stressing the importance of coordinated efforts to position Jharkhand as a leading destination for eco-tourism, sports excellence, and cultural development while creating new opportunities for youth and local communities.
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