Soren Calls for Rapid Proposals on Eco‑Tourism Projects Across Multiple Districts

Chief Minister Hemant Soren urged his department to act swiftly on eco‑tourism initiatives during a high‑level review meeting on July 6 in Ranchi. He asked officials to compile a list of underground coal mining zones that could be repurposed for nature‑based tourism and to draft implementation plans without delay.

The CM specifically named Seraikela‑Kharasawan, East Singhbhum, Giridih, Latehar, Hazaribagh and Ranchi as target districts for fast‑tracked eco‑tourism projects. He instructed the preparation of detailed project proposals, feasibility reports and funding outlines for each location.

Soren highlighted Jharkhand’s abundant natural, religious and heritage assets, calling for an updated tourism policy, expedited development of Patratui view points, rope‑way systems at tourist hotspots, and the erection of a glass bridge or watch‑tower, a coal‑view point, cottages, trekking tracks, and related facilities at Netarhat. He also emphasized the need to promote eco‑tourism at Lodh waterfall.

In the sports segment, the chief minister insisted that athletes who have earned medals at national or international levels must be protected from financial hardships that could force them to abandon sports. He mandated the creation of an athlete database, the launch of incentive schemes for financially vulnerable sportspersons, and the refurbishment of the Mega Sports Complex in Khelgaon. A comprehensive plan for a sports university in Jharkhand was also commissioned.

Regarding cultural affairs, Soren ordered the compilation of a state‑wide artist database and a verification exercise at the district level for all registered performers. He also called for greater exposure trips for artists and stronger linkages with art institutions in other states.

The meeting was attended by Tourism, Art‑Culture, Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Sudhivy Kumar, Chief Secretary Avinash Kumar, Department Secretary Mukesh Kumar, and other senior officials.