Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has called for a focused push towards developing eco-tourism projects that utilize the State’s abundant natural resources. During a review meeting with senior officials from the Forests and Environment Department, the CM emphasized that Telangana has the potential to become a major eco-tourism hub, citing examples like Singapore, which operates night safaris on just 30 acres.
Highlighting the State’s natural wealth-rivers, waterfalls, forests, and wildlife-the CM said these could be leveraged to attract more domestic and international visitors. He particularly stressed the need to enhance facilities at the Amrabad and Kawal tiger reserves, as tourists currently prefer destinations like Bandipur and Tadoba to view tigers. Improved infrastructure, better amenities, and unique visitor experiences could significantly boost footfall to Telangana’s reserves.
Resolving Land Disputes and Improving Infrastructure
The CM addressed the ongoing land ownership disputes between the Revenue and Forest Departments and directed a joint survey to resolve the matter. District Collectors have been asked to take special initiative in this regard. He also urged officials to prepare a detailed plan for developing the Kakatiya Zoo in Warangal, exploring the possibility of implementing projects through the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.
Wildlife Protection and Community Support
To ensure quick relief for people affected by wild animal attacks, the CM instructed officials to expedite compensation payments, using funds from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund (CMRF) where necessary. He also called for better coordination between departments to execute road works and other infrastructure projects on forest lands, with speedy clearances from the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests.
Technology and Staffing Improvements
Mr. Reddy directed the Forest Department to link wildlife monitoring cameras to the Command Control Centre for better tracking of animal movements. Addressing staffing shortages, he asked the Chief Secretary to approach the Central Government for the allocation of more Indian Forest Service (IFS) officers. He also instructed the department to prepare proposals for promotions and recruitment to fill vacant posts promptly.
Lastly, the CM suggested reviving the tradition of awarding forest department employees for exemplary service, aiming to boost morale and encourage efficiency within the department.
FAQ’s
The CM aims to utilize Telangana’s natural resources—rivers, waterfalls, forests, and wildlife—to develop world-class eco-tourism projects and increase tourist inflow.
Amrabad and Kawal tiger reserves are being prioritized for infrastructure upgrades and visitor facilities to attract more tourists.
The CM has directed the preparation of a development plan for Kakatiya Zoo in Warangal, potentially under a Public-Private Partnership model.
A joint survey between the Revenue and Forest Departments has been ordered to resolve land ownership disputes.
Officials have been instructed to ensure quick compensation for victims of wild animal attacks, using CMRF funds when necessary.