The special project to be jointly implemented by the forest, tourism and wildlife departments envisages massive afforestation, conservation of wildlife habitats and rich eco-system of the area, besides creation of sustainable tourism infrastructure, Forest Minister Mian Altaf Ahmad said.
Ahmad, who chaired a high-level meeting during his day-long tour of various areas along the Mughal Road in south Kashmir's Shopian district yesterday, said the area was bestowed with rich flora and fauna, besides destinations having cultural importance which can attract a large number of nature lovers from across the globe.
"The main objective of developing eco-tourism sites in the state was to offer an insight into the impact of human beings on the environment and to foster a greater responsibility towards the natural habitats," he said.
The minister said eco-tourism projects also envisage public participation in the conservation of pristine nature besides providing them better earning opportunities.
Underlining the need to ensure minimum disturbance to the ecosystem, Ahmad said the rich habitats, forests, water bodies and natural beauty were the invaluable assets which make Jammu and Kashmir a favourite for the visitors from across the world.
