To enhance tourism and promote sustainable livelihoods, the Tripura Forest Department has unveiled ambitious plans, including the establishment of the largest flower garden in Northeast India.
Animesh Debbarma, Minister for Forests, revealed that the project will be situated at Purba Takchaya ADC Village within the Tulashikhar Forest Range of Khowai district. This initiative aims to attract tourists and bolster eco-tourism efforts in the region.
Highlighting further initiatives, Minister Debbarma announced a mass tree planting event scheduled for July 5, where five lakh trees will be planted within a span of 5 minutes, involving public participation alongside schools, colleges, NGOs, and various governmental departments. Additionally, the department plans to embark on road-side avenue plantations along recently widened National Highways, featuring fruit-bearing and flowering tree species.
The construction of a multi-utility hall at Baramura eco-park in Khowai district is also on the agenda to enhance tourist facilities.
To encourage tree planting, the Forest Department will distribute free tree seedlings to educational institutions, paramilitary forces, and other organizations for public premises. Furthermore, seedlings will be available for purchase at a nominal rate of Rs. 2.5 per seedling from Forest Nurseries for private landowners during July, coinciding with the Van Mahotsav month.
The Sepahijala Zoological Park is set to undergo modernization with a budget of Rs. 6 crore, sourced from Special Capital Assistance and the State Plan. Additionally, emphasis will be placed on promoting eco-tourism in Atharamura and Jampui Hills.
Underpinning these initiatives is a commitment to economic empowerment, with the Forest Department spearheading livelihood activities under Externally Aided Projects, amounting to a substantial investment of Rs. 300 crores.
