The Maharashtra government today inked two big Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) on the issue of Tiger conservation and Eco-tourism with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on International Tiger Day.
During the event, 11 MoUs were signed between the various institutions, and some of the memorandums focused on enhancing the conservation of wildlife, sustainable tourism and rural development, according to an official government release.
The three-day agreement saw one of its key points between Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Conservation Foundation (TATRCF) and Airbnb India Pvt Ltd. The Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve is expecting an increased number of tourists because the partnership is looking to promote the community-based tourism in this area through digital trainings, online list assistance, and support in setup and capacity building at homestay level.
In addition, there was an exchange of another MoU between Navegaon – Nagzira Tiger Reserve (NNTR) and Tata Motors Foundation (TMF). The agreement specifies that the organisations should put in place the Integrated Village Development Programme (IVDP 2.0) in villages within the buffer zone and eco-sensitive zone of the reserve. The overall thrust of the initiative is on enhancing the livelihood, management of natural resources, education, health care and empowerment of the community.
A third accord was inked with the Aaroha Group and Mahindra Holidays and Resorts India Limited and the Maharashtra Forest Department. The partnership aims to spread the concept of eco-tourism, build a luxury infrastructure of accommodation and bolster destination development in Maharashtra.
“Sustainable conservation programmes will further be strengthened under these pledges, which will create livelihood opportunities for the inhabitants of the forest areas as well as promote a responsible tourist experience in Maharashtra,” the Maharashtra government said.