HIMCOSTE Concludes Green Skill Development Training for 20 Nature Conservators and Ecotourism Guides in Shimla

Shimla: The Himachal Pradesh Council for Science, Technology and Environment (HIMCOSTE), Shimla, successfully concluded a training programme on ‘Nature Conservator-cum-Ecotourism Guide’ under the Green Skill Development Programme (GSDP) of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC), Government of India. The programme was conducted at CSLC–Science Museum, Shoghi, Shimla, from September 9 to October 30, 2026, with the participation of 20 students from different parts of Himachal Pradesh.

The training focused on biodiversity conservation, wildlife protection, natural resource management and sustainable ecotourism practices. It aimed to equip young participants with practical skills and knowledge to explore employment and self-employment opportunities in nature conservation and eco-friendly tourism.

Addressing the concluding ceremony as Chief Guest, Dr. Suresh C. Attri, Joint Member Secretary-cum-Coordinator, EIACP, highlighted the importance of responsible natural resource management. He encouraged trainees to utilise their newly acquired skills to protect the state’s natural heritage, support local communities and promote sustainable tourism.

He also emphasised that trained nature conservators and ecotourism guides could play an important role in environmental protection while generating livelihood opportunities, particularly in a biodiversity-rich state like Himachal Pradesh.

Umesh Pathania, STO; Dr. Shashi Dhar, Scientific Officer; Dr. Ritvik Chauhan, Information Officer; and Jai Priya were also present at the concluding ceremony.

The programme concluded with the distribution of certificates to all 20 trainees. The initiative is expected to strengthen green skills among Himachal Pradesh’s youth and encourage environmentally responsible tourism and conservation practices across the state.