PM Modi’s Praise in Mann Ki Baat Delights Odisha Eco-Tourism Worker Maithili Bhue

Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s Maithili Bhue, whose efforts towards forest conservation and women’s empowerment through eco-tourism were recently highlighted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has expressed her gratitude for the recognition.

Bhue, a resident of Dhodrokusum village in the Debrigarh region of Sundargarh district, said she was overwhelmed after hearing the Prime Minister mention her work during his monthly radio programme, Mann Ki Baat.

Coming from a financially struggling family, Bhue earlier depended on forest produce for her livelihood. She used to collect and sell kendu leaves, bamboo shoots, mahua flowers and firewood to support her household.

Her life began to change in 2023 when she joined the Debrigarh Eco-Tourism initiative. The opportunity provided her with a more stable source of income and helped improve her family’s financial condition.

Bhue said her progress also encouraged other women in neighbouring villages to explore employment opportunities in eco-tourism.

“I am extremely happy that Prime Minister Narendra Modi mentioned my name and appreciated my work in Mann Ki Baat. I sincerely thank him for recognising our efforts,” Bhue said.

She is now working to empower more women by providing them training in eco-tourism and hospitality. At present, she is reportedly training around 40 to 50 women, helping them develop the skills required to interact with visitors and provide quality services.

The women associated with the initiative are working across several areas, including souvenir shops, tea stalls, restaurants, nature camps and homestays. Training is provided based on the responsibilities assigned to them.

According to Bhue, the initiative has not only created livelihood opportunities but has also encouraged local communities to participate in tourism while supporting conservation efforts.

“I want more women to become self-reliant and earn a livelihood through eco-tourism. I am training them so that they can confidently serve tourists and contribute to the development of Debrigarh,” she said.

Bhue said the Prime Minister’s recognition has further motivated her and the other women involved in the initiative to continue their work for forest conservation, sustainable tourism and community development.

Prime Minister Modi, during his latest Mann Ki Baat address, praised Bhue and her associates for their contribution to protecting forests and creating livelihood opportunities for local women through eco-tourism.