Nature Conservation & Eco-Tourism Guide Training Launched under Green Skill Development Programme
Govind Ballabh Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment empowers local youth with self-employment skills, sustainable livelihoods, and environmental stewardship.
A specialized training program titled "Nature Conservation-cum-Eco-Tourism Guide" has officially commenced under the Green Skill Development Programme (GSDP) at the EIACP Centre of the Govind Ballabh Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment (NIHE).
The training initiative was formally inaugurated by Dr. I.D. Bhatt, Director of the Institute. Outlining the expansive reach of the institute’s four major hubs and five regional units, Dr. Bhatt urged the trainees to align environmental protection with sustainable livelihood enhancement.
Key Highlights & Focus Areas
National Focus on Green Skills: Er. M.S. Lodhi, Coordinator and Senior Scientist at the EIACP Centre, briefed participants on the scope of the national-level Green Skill Development Programme. He highlighted ongoing initiatives spanning homestay management, apiculture (beekeeping), hydroponics, and photography.
Administrative Support & Border Tourism: Chief Guest and Chief Development Officer (CDO) Ramji Sharan Sharma outlined self-employment avenues via eco-tourism in border region communities, detailing relevant government welfare schemes and financial assistance mechanisms available to rural entrepreneurs.
Technical & Architecture Sessions: Expert sessions included lectures by Dr. Lalit Giri on soil-less hydroponic farming techniques, and architect Er. Sachin Uniyal on traditional Uttarakhand home architecture, building materials, and their heritage value in eco-tourism. Darwan Bisht also shared strategies for sustainable income generation.
Training Structure & Objectives
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Participants | 20 selected trainees from various districts |
| Expert Panel | ~50 domain specialists sharing practical insights |
| Skill Domains | Paragliding, River Rafting, Trekking, Hydroponics, Homestays |
| Core Goal | Foster localized self-employment and community-led conservation |
By equipping regional youth with certified skills in adventure sports, hospitality, and eco-guiding, the program aims to curb rural migration and build localized, nature-friendly economies across Uttarakhand.
