Assam Minister Advocates Conservation-Led Tourism Growth

Times of India · india

Assam's Forest Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah has urged the state to prioritize conservation-led tourism over simply increasing visitor numbers. He highlighted Manas Tiger Reserve as a successful model where tourism and wildlife conservation coexist. The minister emphasized that tourism's true value lies in creating jobs, strengthening conservation efforts, and fostering awareness of natural heritage. Mallabaruah also called for a shift towards community-led experiences in forest buffer areas, empowering local youth as guides and hospitality providers to ensure tourism benefits both livelihoods and landscape protection.