Government sets target for 100 eco-tourism hubs in 3 years.

The State Government has set a target to develop 100 eco-tourism locations during next three years. A decision to this effect was taken at a high level meeting presided over by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik where he reviewed the performance of Forest and Environment Department during the last two years. While 20 new eco-tourism spots will be developed this year, work on 23 is in progress. The Chief Minister directed the Department to provide bonus of Rs. 62 crore to kendu leaf pluckers by June, 2016. Activities of Food Supply and Consumer Welfare Department were also reviewed by the Chief Minister. The State Government has so far included 84.83 lakh families under National Food Security Act (NFSA). Naveen directed the Department to go for third party assessment of implementation of NFSA in the State. Besides, it was decided that P-pass system will be implemented in 294 blocks of the State where paddy is procured by March, 2017. Till now, Rs. 4498 crore has been transferred to accounts of farmers in 160 blocks under P-pass system.

THE NEW INDIAN EXPRESS