The Bihar government has issued a directive instructing all state employees to visit tourist spots along with their family members every three months. This initiative aims to promote tourism within the state and enhance the well-being of employees by encouraging them to explore local attractions.
Objective of the Directive
The primary goal of this order is to boost domestic tourism in Bihar. By mandating regular visits, the government hopes to increase footfall at various tourist destinations, thereby supporting the local economy and creating awareness about the state's cultural and historical heritage.
Key Details of the Order
According to the official communication, all government employees must plan and undertake a family trip to a tourist spot within Bihar every quarter. The directive emphasizes that employees should choose destinations they have not visited before to maximize exposure. The government has also encouraged employees to share their experiences and photographs on social media to promote tourism.
- Employees are required to submit a brief report of their visit to their respective department heads.
- The order applies to all state government employees, including those in public sector undertakings and autonomous bodies.
- No additional funds will be provided for these trips; employees must bear the expenses themselves.
Reactions and Implications
The directive has received mixed reactions from employee unions. While some view it as a positive step towards work-life balance and tourism promotion, others have expressed concerns about the financial burden and the mandatory nature of the order. The government, however, maintains that the initiative is voluntary in spirit but expects compliance.
Tourism industry stakeholders have welcomed the move, anticipating a surge in domestic tourism. Hoteliers and travel operators in popular destinations like Bodh Gaya, Nalanda, and Rajgir are optimistic about increased business.
Implementation and Monitoring
Department heads will monitor compliance and may include it in performance reviews. The government also plans to introduce incentives for employees who actively promote tourism through their visits.
This policy aligns with the state's broader tourism development strategy, which includes infrastructure upgrades and marketing campaigns to attract more visitors.
