Punjab to Develop Nangal as a Tourist Hub & Jhajjar Bachauli as the First Leopard Safari

The Punjab Government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, has announced major initiatives to boost tourism and wildlife conservation in the state. Nangal will be developed into a major tourist hub, with an initial budget of ₹10 crore, while Jhajjar Bachauli Wildlife Sanctuary in Sri Anandpur Sahib will be transformed into Punjab’s first leopard safari destination. These initiatives are part of the ‘Badalda Punjab’ Budget 2025-26, presented by Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, which also allocates a special budget for the 350th Martyrdom Anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji. The projects aim to enhance tourism, preserve biodiversity, create employment, and uplift cultural heritage in Punjab.

Key Highlights of the Initiative

1. Development of Nangal as a Major Tourist Destination

• Project Announced by: Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains
• Budget Allocation: ₹10 crore (Initial phase)

Objectives

• Improve tourist infrastructure and facilities.
• Promote local attractions and heritage sites.
• Boost employment opportunities in tourism and hospitality.

2. Jhajjar Bachauli Wildlife Sanctuary – Punjab’s First Leopard Safari

• Location: Sri Anandpur Sahib
• Objective: To develop an eco-tourism destination where visitors can observe leopards and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Significance

• First wildlife sanctuary in Punjab with a dedicated leopard safari.
• Promotes wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism.
• Enhances eco-tourism and biodiversity awareness.

3. Special Budget for 350th Martyrdom Anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji

Purpose

• Infrastructure development in Sri Anandpur Sahib.
• Restoration and promotion of historical and cultural heritage.
• Enhancing facilities for pilgrims and tourists.

4. Economic & Cultural Benefits

• Tourism Growth: Attracts domestic and international tourists.
• Employment Generation: Expands job opportunities in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
• Cultural Development: Promotes Punjab’s rich heritage and spiritual sites.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	Punjab to Develop Nangal as a Tourist Hub & Jhajjar Bachauli as the First Leopard Safari
Tourism Initiative	Development of Nangal as a tourist hub
Leopard Safari	Jhajjar Bachauli Wildlife Sanctuary in Sri Anandpur Sahib
Budget for Nangal Development	₹10 crore (Initial phase)
Purpose of Nangal Development	Enhance tourist infrastructure, promote attractions, create employment
Significance of Jhajjar Bachauli	First leopard safari in Punjab, promotes eco-tourism and conservation
Special Budget Allocation	350th Martyrdom Anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji
Expected Benefits	Tourism growth, employment opportunities, cultural and heritage preservation