Bihar’s Environment, Forest & Climate Change Minister Ram Chandra Prasad inaugurated the “Ecotourism Investors Meet-2026” on July 13, 2026, aimed at promoting ecotourism with robust participation from private investors across the state. This event was held at a city hotel and included potential investors from various corners of the country who are interested in investing in diverse ecotourism locations throughout Bihar.
During the event, Mr. Prasad emphasized the state government’s unwavering commitment to assist investors in any way possible. He stated, “The state government is committed to cooperate and help in every possible manner in resolving their (investors’) grievances and problems.” He encouraged prospective investors to embrace the opportunities in Bihar, highlighting the investors’ meet as a step towards achieving sustainable growth under the guidance of Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary.
Goals and Structure of the Meet
Additional Chief Secretary Anand Kishor provided insights into the meeting’s objectives, encouraging attendees to voice their opinions and suggestions. He clarified that the Request for Proposal (RFP) for developing ecotourism destinations, available on the official website and in newspapers, is open to modifications based on feedback received during the meet. “We will prepare an RFP following your suggestions,” he assured.
Mr. Kishor reiterated the government’s plan to establish an investor-friendly policy to facilitate investments, emphasizing that those investing in ecotourism should view it as a “profession.” This investors’ meeting is a part of numerous initiatives that the state government has initiated to enhance both tourism and ecotourism.
Public-Private Partnership and Project Details
The meeting highlighted that investors have the opportunity to develop ecotourism sites through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) structure, relying on a Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) model supported by Viability Gap Funding (VGF). Mr. Kishor announced that the department has segmented various ecotourism sites into two categories: Group A and Group B.
- Group A consists of 29 reservoir-based ecotourism projects, where a minimum annual turnover of ₹10 crore per site is mandatory. Investors opting for multiple sites can expect an increased turnover requirement, capped at ₹50 crore.
- Group B includes 247 projects, involving ponds, lakes, wetlands, and various other water bodies, with a minimum turnover requirement of ₹2 crore per site and a maximum of ₹10 crore.
Mr. Kishor also mentioned opportunities for adventure and water sports at key ecotourism spots to attract larger tourist crowds. The department has called for Expressions of Interest (EOI) to develop these sites in collaboration with private entities.
Ongoing Projects and Future Opportunities
An RFP has been issued for an ecotourism initiative located at Bhimbandh Wildlife Sanctuary, with submissions due by July 28. Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (PCCF) Arvinder Singh shared his optimism about private investments through the PPP model, stating that selected investors will be granted project sites on a 30-year lease, along with financial support via VGF for eligible projects.
Mr. Singh outlined the potential of ecotourism in Bihar, noting that various infrastructure advancements have been made at destinations including Karamchat Dam in Rohtas, Mundeshwari in Kaimur, and attractions like the zoo safari and nature safari in Nalanda. These efforts have led to a marked increase in tourist visits.
Furthermore, over ₹500 crore has been allocated in recent years for developing ecotourism sites, reaffirming the government’s commitment to enhancing these destinations through the PPP framework.
