Maha mulls adopting K’taka model of ecotourism

Nagpur: The Maharashtra Ecotourism Development Board (MEDB) is scrutinising the implementation of Karnataka's Jungle Lodges & Resorts Limited (JLRL) model of ecotourism in the state.A five-member delegation, headed by principal secretary (Forest) B Venugopal Reddy, PCCF (Head of Forest Force) Shomita Biswas, PCCF (Wildlife) Vivek Khandekar, APCCF (Budget, Planning & Management) P Kalyan Kumar, and deputy secretary Vivek Hoshing visited Karnataka recently to examine the model.JLRL is a state-owned entity under the ministry of tourism with IAS officers and chief wildlife warden on the board of directors. It administers the entire tourism activity in Karnataka with themes encompassing adventure, beach, heritage, nature and wildlife.PCCF (Wildlife) and MEDB managing director Vivek Khandekar told TOI, "We analysed the JLRL model where under the single window system, it manages resorts, lodges, safaris and a comprehensive range of tourism activities. Tourism is well-organised and administered with exemplary standards. The company possesses all non-moveable assets which are meticulously maintained. We engaged with the forest and JLRL officials and studied the intricacies and how the model can be implemented in Maharashtra.""The circumstances in Maharashtra and Karnataka are entirely distinct. The JLRL has an early-bird advantage there as it commenced 40-45 years ago. In Maharashtra, at most of the tourism destinations, private enterprises have already established their presence. We are still exploring how we can implement the JLRL model here. We will need to discuss modalities with the tourism department," said Khandekar.APCCF Kalyan Kumar said, "We will have to explore new ecotourism sites. In destinations like Tadoba or Pench tiger reserves, several high-end resorts and facilities have already come up. The selection of ecotourism sites will be crucial. Things are at a very preliminary stage now."
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