Amrit Dharohar Capacity Building Scheme: A Boost for Wetland Conservation and Eco-Tourism
Amrit Dharohar Capacity Building Scheme
Wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems on Earth, providing numerous ecological services and supporting rich biodiversity. Recognizing their importance, the Government of India has launched the Amrit Dharohar Capacity Building Scheme, a joint initiative by the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change. This scheme aims to promote the sustainable use of wetlands, enhance biodiversity, boost carbon stock, and create eco-tourism opportunities, thereby benefiting local communities.
Collaborative Effort Between Ministries
The success of the Amrit Dharohar Capacity Building Scheme hinges on the collaboration between the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change. While the Ministry of Tourism focuses on developing eco-tourism infrastructure and marketing, the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change is responsible for ensuring environmental sustainability and conservation of wetlands.
Implementation Timeline
The scheme is set to be implemented over three years, starting from 2023. It is divided into multiple phases, each focusing on different aspects of wetland conservation and eco-tourism development. The phased approach ensures that all objectives are met systematically and sustainably.
Objectives of the Scheme
The primary objectives of the Amrit Dharohar Capacity Building Scheme include:
- Encouraging optimal use of wetlands: Promoting activities that balance conservation and sustainable use.
- Enhancing biodiversity: Protecting and restoring diverse species that inhabit wetlands.
- Increasing carbon stock: Utilizing wetlands’ capacity to sequester carbon and mitigate climate change.
- Promoting eco-tourism opportunities: Developing nature-based tourism that attracts visitors while preserving the environment.
- Generating income for local communities: Creating livelihoods through eco-tourism and conservation activities.
High-Value Nature Tourism
A key focus of the scheme is transitioning from high-volume tourism to high-value nature tourism. This approach prioritizes quality over quantity, ensuring that tourism activities do not harm the ecological balance of wetlands. High-value nature tourism offers visitors unique, enriching experiences while maintaining the integrity of natural habitats.
Focus on Ramsar Sites
Ramsar Sites, designated under the Ramsar Convention, are wetlands of international importance. India is home to several Ramsar Sites, each with unique ecological features. The Amrit Dharohar Capacity Building Scheme aims to harness the tourism potential of these sites, ensuring their protection and sustainable use.
Pilot Projects
To kickstart the initiative, five Ramsar Sites have been selected for pilot projects:
- Sultanpur National Park (Haryana): Known for its rich birdlife and diverse flora.
- Bhitarkanika Mangroves (Odisha): A hotspot for mangrove biodiversity and unique wildlife.
- Chilika Lake (Odisha): Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, famous for its bird sanctuary.
- Sirpur (Madhya Pradesh): An archaeological and ecological treasure trove.
- Yashwant Sagar (Madhya Pradesh): A crucial habitat for migratory birds.
Training Programs and Skill Development
To ensure the success of the scheme, various training programs are being implemented under the Alternative Livelihood Programme (ALP) and the Paryatan Navik Certificate (boatman certification for tourism). These programs equip local communities with the skills needed to participate in and benefit from eco-tourism activities.
Benefits to Local Communities
The scheme is designed to provide significant benefits to local communities, including:
- Livelihood enhancement: Creating new job opportunities through eco-tourism and conservation projects.
- Economic benefits: Boosting local economies by attracting tourists and increasing spending.
- Social and cultural impacts: Promoting cultural heritage and community engagement in conservation efforts.
Environmental Benefits
The environmental benefits of the Amrit Dharohar Capacity Building Scheme are manifold:
- Conservation of biodiversity: Protecting diverse species and their habitats.
- Improvement of carbon stock: Enhancing the carbon sequestration capacity of wetlands.
- Restoration of wetland ecosystems: Rehabilitating degraded wetlands and maintaining their ecological functions.
Eco-Tourism Opportunities
The scheme emphasizes the development of sustainable tourism practices that engage local communities and minimize environmental impact. By promoting responsible tourism, the scheme aims to create a balance between economic development and environmental conservation.
Challenges and Solutions
Implementing the Amrit Dharohar Capacity Building Scheme is not without challenges. These may include:
- Environmental degradation: Ensuring tourism does not harm wetland ecosystems.
- Community engagement: Encouraging local participation and support.
- Funding and resources: Securing adequate funding for long-term sustainability.
To address these challenges, the scheme incorporates strategies such as community outreach programs, sustainable tourism practices, and partnerships with various stakeholders.
Case Studies from Pilot Sites
Success stories from the pilot sites highlight the scheme’s positive impact:
- Sultanpur National Park: Increased birdwatching tourism and local employment.
- Bhitarkanika Mangroves: Enhanced mangrove protection and eco-tourism initiatives.
- Chilika Lake: Growth in eco-tourism and improved water quality.
- Sirpur: Archaeological tourism boost and wetland restoration.
- Yashwant Sagar: Successful bird conservation and tourism development.
Future Prospects
The long-term vision of the Amrit Dharohar Capacity Building Scheme includes expanding to additional Ramsar Sites and ensuring the sustainability of conservation and tourism efforts. Continuous monitoring, community involvement, and adaptive management are crucial for the scheme’s future success.
Conclusion
The Amrit Dharohar Capacity Building Scheme represents a significant step towards wetland conservation and sustainable eco-tourism in India. By fostering collaboration between government ministries, local communities, and various stakeholders, the scheme aims to protect vital ecosystems while enhancing livelihoods. The success of the pilot projects sets a promising precedent for the future, highlighting the potential for nature-based tourism to drive conservation and community development.
FAQs
- What is the Amrit Dharohar Capacity Building Scheme? The scheme is a joint initiative by the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change to promote sustainable use of wetlands, enhance biodiversity, and boost eco-tourism.
- How does the scheme benefit local communities? It creates livelihood opportunities through eco-tourism and conservation activities, boosting local economies and promoting community engagement.
- What are the main objectives of the scheme? The primary objectives include encouraging optimal use of wetlands, enhancing biodiversity, increasing carbon stock, promoting eco-tourism, and generating income for local communities.
- How are the Ramsar sites selected for the pilot projects? Five Ramsar Sites were chosen based on their ecological significance and potential for eco-tourism: Sultanpur National Park, Bhitarkanika Mangroves, Chilika Lake, Sirpur, and Yashwant Sagar.
- What is the role of the Ministry of Tourism in this scheme? The Ministry of Tourism is responsible for developing eco-tourism infrastructure, marketing the sites, and ensuring sustainable tourism practices.
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