PANJIM: Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar on Monday announced plans for promotion of eco-tourism around the national park and wildlife sanctuaries, in a bid to create awareness on nature conservation among tourists.
In his Wildlife Week message, Parrikar said the government is evolving these plans which will not only create opportunities of livelihood for local communities, but help create awareness about nature conservation amongst the visitors. Goa has five wildlife sanctuaries, one national park and one bird sanctuary.
“Support of the people, in particular those living in the forest fringe areas, is crucial to the success of our conservation programmes, thereby strengthening our links with nature and paving the way for sustainable development,” the Chief Minister said.
Parrikar, who holds the forest portfolio, said considering that India has more than 50 percent of its population below the age of 25, efforts need to be made to encourage young people who are the future leaders and decision makers, to act at the regional and global levels to protect endangered wildlife and our natural heritage.
“Our lives would be much poorer without the varied forms of organisms that maintain the balance of nature,” he said.
On the occasion of the 66th wildlife week, the Chief Minister has appealed to citizens, especially youth, to extend support in making Goa a better home for rich wildlife and biodiversity.
Governor Mridula Sinha, in her address, appealed to all to rise together and take up conservation and development judiciously.
“Let us all pledge to protect and conserve our wildlife heritage and resolve to maintain ecological stability and enhance natural beauty of our beloved Goa,” she stated.
