CHANDIGARH:The govt of Punjab is planning a major eco tourism initiative aimed at promoting the region’s appeal as an ethical destination.

Located in the north-west of the country, Punjab has long been tipped as a potentially massive tourism destination, although largely on account of its royal palaces and its place at the heart of both Hindu and Sikh history in the country. Nevertheless, the new eight-year project aims to capitalise on Punjab's natural history, particularly its forests and wildlife.

 Deputy Director for Punjab’s department tourism Surinder Bajaj, declared: "Eco tourism as concept could be utilised to integrate environmental and socially applied principles into practice and could result into win-win situation for both, cause of conservation and for meeting the aspiration of the local people."

The regional and national forestry with environment departments are joining together to form a special directory to oversee the project.

Attractions that will benefit from the investment include Keshopur wetland, Shalla Pattan wetland, the Kathaur Kaushalaya forests, land along the banks of the Sutlej river, Mirzapur dam in the Ropar district, and the Abohar wildlife sanctuary.