The General Administration Department (GAD) of Bihar has issued comprehensive guidelines for a new government initiative aimed at promoting tourism at sites known for art, culture, environmental diversity, and historical significance, while simultaneously boosting the rural economy.
Key Features of the Initiative
Under this initiative, government officers and employees will be permitted to spend two days every three months with their families at tourist destinations located outside their home district. During these visits, they are required to stay overnight and visit at least three tourist sites. Additionally, they must submit photographs, local information, and written accounts of their experiences to the district officer of their posting district.
Implementation and Oversight
Additional Chief Secretary of the GAD, B Rajender, has issued directions to additional chief secretaries, principal secretaries, secretaries, the Director General of Police, the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, divisional commissioners, inspector generals of police, deputy inspector generals of police, regional chief conservators of forests, and other senior officials regarding the implementation of this initiative.
According to the guidelines, officers and employees undertaking these visits will remain exempt from departmental inspections and review meetings during the two-day period. Reports submitted after the visits will be forwarded to the Tourism Department, the Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department, and the Art and Culture Department for further action.
Objectives and Expected Impact
The government stated that the initiative aims to accelerate tourism and eco-tourism development in lesser-known regions of the state. During this period, the Tourism Department, district officers, and forest division officers will work on promoting home-stay facilities in tourist areas.
The plan is expected to generate income opportunities for local residents by encouraging tourists to stay in village homes on a payment basis. This approach also offers authentic cultural experiences, local cuisine, and traditional hospitality to visitors.
By involving government employees as tourists, the initiative seeks to create a multiplier effect, drawing attention to offbeat destinations and fostering sustainable tourism practices. The collected data and experiences will help in better planning and promotion of these sites.
