THE INITIATIVE

• Development of community-based rural eco-tourism

THE BENEFICIARIES

• Residents of 4 villages in Puri district, Odisha

THE CHALLENGE

• Change in water inflow into Chilka Lake had impacted the livelihood of fishermen

THE SOLUTION

• NABARD sanctioned an eco-tourism project to Researchers, an NGO, which trained fishermen to run eco-tourism projects
• Fishing boats were converted into sailing/ rowing boats and capacity-building support was provided to youths
• Efforts were made to integrate financial inclusion in the project

THE IMPACT

• Establishment of rural eco-tourism as an alternate livelihood option
• Additional tourism activities have also been taken up
• Substantial check in environmental damage
• Rise in financial inclusion and an entrepreneurial mindset