{"id":5378,"date":"2025-07-09T10:15:52","date_gmt":"2025-07-09T10:15:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/theeaglenews.co.in\/?p=5378"},"modified":"2025-07-09T10:15:52","modified_gmt":"2025-07-09T10:15:52","slug":"5378","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/theeaglenews.co.in\/?p=5378","title":{"rendered":""},"content":{"rendered":"
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“Astro-Tourism Takes Off in Himachal: CM Sukhu Launches Stargazing Facility in Kaza to Empower Local Communities”<\/strong><\/p>\n

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Shimla:<\/strong><\/p>\n

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In a groundbreaking step to integrate science with tourism and promote sustainable livelihoods in remote Himalayan regions, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today inaugurated the first-ever Astro-tourism initiative<\/strong> in Himachal Pradesh by launching a state-of-the-art stargazing facility<\/strong> in Kaza<\/strong>, Spiti Valley.<\/p>\n

The initiative, spearheaded by the Himachal Pradesh Council for Science, Technology & Environment (HIMCOSTE)<\/strong> under the Department of Environment, Science Technology & Climate Change, is aimed at transforming the pristine cold desert of Spiti into a premier destination for night sky tourism<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

As part of the launch, CM Sukhu handed over high-end computerized telescopes (Sky-Watcher BKDOB 8\u201d Collapsible GOTO)<\/strong> to two local beneficiaries. Several other aspiring Astro-tourism entrepreneurs from Kaza, Langza, and Rangrik joined the event virtually. These telescopes will be used to host night sky observation sessions<\/strong> for tourists, offering a unique celestial experience under Spiti\u2019s crystal-clear skies.<\/p>\n

“This marks a new beginning in the history of Himachal Pradesh<\/strong>,” said CM Sukhu. “Our goal is to blend science with culture<\/strong>, while also strengthening the local economy through responsible tourism<\/strong>. The minimal light pollution and high-altitude clarity of Spiti make it ideal for stargazing and space education.”<\/p>\n

The Chief Minister emphasized that the initiative would help in community empowerment<\/strong>, particularly among the tribal youth, by opening new avenues of income through Astro-tourism services<\/strong>. He added that local homestay and hotel owners<\/strong> are being encouraged to become part of the project and will receive training and equipment<\/strong> to host astronomy sessions for tourists.<\/p>\n

In his address, CM Sukhu acknowledged the enthusiastic participation of local tribal communities<\/strong> and expressed optimism about their role in making the region a model for science-based tourism. He also underlined the need for a collective effort involving local communities, scientific institutions, and government bodies<\/strong> to ensure the success and sustainability of the initiative.<\/p>\n

Supporting the initiative, Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena<\/strong> highlighted that the idea was first envisioned by the Chief Minister in August 2023<\/strong>, with the aim of developing science-driven tourism models in remote and ecologically sensitive regions<\/strong> like Spiti.<\/p>\n

To ensure the scientific and technical integrity of the programme, a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)<\/strong> has been signed between HIMCOSTE, the Central University of Himachal Pradesh (CUHP)<\/strong>, and the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA)<\/strong>. This partnership will provide technical guidance and help in developing long-term training modules and observational programmes.<\/p>\n

The event witnessed the presence of key dignitaries including MLA Anuradha Rana<\/strong>, Principal Advisor (Media) to CM Naresh Chauhan<\/strong>, ADGPs Satwant Atwal and Abhishek Trivedi<\/strong>, Special Secretary D.C. Rana<\/strong>, and other senior officers.<\/p>\n

With this bold and visionary initiative, the Himachal Pradesh government<\/strong> aims not only to draw space enthusiasts and travelers from around the globe but also to create a replicable model for community-led scientific tourism<\/strong> in other parts of India.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

“Astro-Tourism Takes Off in Himachal: CM Sukhu Launches Stargazing Facility in Kaza to Empower Local Communities”     Shimla:   In a groundbreaking step to […]<\/p>\n

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