In a unique move to promote tourism, the Bihar government has directed all state government employees and officials to spend two days every three months at tourist destinations within the state, including eco-tourism and rural tourism sites, to help boost local tourism infrastructure and visibility.
Yes, you read that right! In an official notification issued by the General Administration Department, the government stated, “All government officers and employees working in the state of Bihar shall, once every three months, undertake a two-day visit (including two nights) with their families to any district within the state, excluding their home district, and stay in tourist, eco-tourism or rural tourism destinations.”
Under the directive, employees are expected to stay on Friday and Saturday nights and visit up to three nearby tourist spots during the trip.
The state government has clarified that the duration of the travel will be “treated as time spent on duty”. However, officials have been strictly prohibited from carrying out official work such as inspections or review meetings during the visit. “During this tour, no official shall conduct review meetings or site inspections for official work purposes,” the order said.
Why has Bihar introduced this initiative?
The Bihar government said the step has been taken to identify gaps in tourism infrastructure and promote lesser-known destinations across the state.
“Bihar is a state rich in diversity, with several places having significant art, culture, environmental diversity and historical importance. Apart from internationally and nationally established tourist sites, there are many important places that need to be brought to the global stage,” the letter stated.
The initiative is expected to help authorities assess facilities available at tourist locations while also increasing footfall in underexplored areas.
What will employees have to do?
As part of the exercise, officials and employees will have to submit a detailed report after completing their visit. The report must include photographs of tourist locations, information about the destinations and their personal experiences.
These reports will be submitted to district magistrates, divisional commissioners or the concerned departments based on the employee’s posting.
The government has also instructed departments and district administrations to appoint nodal officers who will compile the reports and share them with the Tourism Department, the Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department, and the Art and Culture Department.
Additionally, district administrations and tourism authorities have been asked to encourage homestay facilities in tourism and eco-tourism regions.
According to the government, homestays will help strengthen local economies by allowing tourists to stay in local homes on a paid basis while offering them “authentic and immersive cultural experiences”, including regional cuisine and personalised hospitality.