Projects - BERU - Forest resources analysis for Animals

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Sustainable Tourism

Sustainable tourism focuses on minimizing the negative impacts of tourism on the environment and local communities, while maximizing its positive contributions. It aims to preserve cultural heritage, protect natural resources, and ensure economic viability for future generations. Key aspects include responsible resource management, community involvement, and promoting ethical travel practices.

Promoting eco-friendly accommodations and activities.
Supporting local businesses and artisanal crafts.
Educating tourists on environmental conservation and cultural respect.
Reducing carbon footprint through sustainable transportation.
Protecting biodiversity and natural ecosystems.

Karnataka Context:

Karnataka's tourism sector contributes to 1 in 10 jobs in the state.
Domestic tourist visits surged from 36.7 million in 2006 to 283.5 million in 2023, positioning Karnataka as the 4th most visited state in India.
The Karnataka Tourism Policy 2024-29 emphasizes sustainable practices, inclusive socio-economic development, and ensuring local communities benefit from tourism.
The state recorded over 4.01 lakh foreign tourist arrivals in 2024, showing strong recovery.

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Tribal Welfare

Initiatives for tribal welfare are crucial for uplifting marginalized communities, ensuring their rights, preserving their unique cultures, and integrating them into mainstream development while respecting their traditional ways of life. This includes providing access to education, healthcare, livelihood opportunities, and land rights.

Improving access to quality education and skill development programs.
Ensuring healthcare services and nutritional support.
Promoting sustainable livelihood options and economic empowerment.
Protecting land rights and traditional knowledge.
Fostering cultural preservation and recognition.

Karnataka Context:

The Department of Tribal Welfare in Karnataka actively implements schemes for Scheduled Tribes.
The Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP) allocates 3% of the state's plan budget towards tribal development, focusing on poverty alleviation, education, healthcare, and basic infrastructure.
Efforts are ongoing to improve basic facilities, as less than 40% of tribal households currently have permanent houses.
Funds are regularly released for various welfare activities, including education and income-generating programs, aiming to overcome low literacy and skill gaps.

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Technology in Environmental Protection

Technology plays a pivotal role in monitoring, mitigating, and managing environmental challenges. From AI-powered data analysis for climate change prediction to smart sensors for pollution control, technological innovations offer powerful tools to protect our planet and promote sustainable living.

Using IoT sensors for real-time air and water quality monitoring.
AI and machine learning for predictive environmental modeling.
Renewable energy solutions (solar, wind, geothermal).
Waste management technologies, including recycling and upcycling.
Remote sensing and satellite imagery for deforestation tracking.

Karnataka Context:

The Karnataka State Council for Science and Technology (KSCST) is involved in projects such as geospatial mapping, rainwater harvesting, and developing methods for safe e-waste disposal (e.g., recovery of metals from lithium batteries).
The Centre for Environment Education (CEE) in Karnataka conducts awareness programs and has developed eco-flags for pollution control boards.
The Department of Ecology and Environment of Karnataka focuses on preserving air, water, and soil quality, and conserving biodiversity.
The State Action Plan on Air Pollution for Karnataka (SAPAP-K) outlines initiatives for improving air quality monitoring and control throughout the state.

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Women Empowerment in 2025

By 2025, women's empowerment initiatives are projected to achieve significant strides in areas like economic independence, political representation, and digital inclusion. Focus will remain on dismantling systemic barriers and fostering an equitable environment where women can thrive and lead across all sectors.

Increased participation of women in STEM fields and leadership roles.
Greater financial literacy and access to entrepreneurial resources.
Enhanced legal frameworks for gender equality and protection against violence.
Leveraging technology to bridge educational and economic gaps for women.
Promoting balanced representation in governance and decision-making bodies.

Karnataka Context (2025 Projections):

Karnataka's 2025-26 budget allocates Rs 94,084 crore under the Gender Budget, demonstrating a strong commitment to women's welfare.
The 'Gruha Lakshmi' scheme, providing Rs 2,000 monthly to 1.22 crore women heads of households, will continue with significant allocation (Rs 28,608 crore).
The 'Shakti' scheme, offering free bus travel for women, is expected to receive Rs 5,300 crore in 2025-26, positively impacting women's mobility and workforce participation.
The loan amount for SC/ST women's Self-Help Groups has been increased from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 2.5 lakh to foster economic independence.
An allocation of Rs 320 crore has been made to achieve zero preventable maternal mortality in the state.