Ranchi: Chief minister Hemant Soren on Monday asked govt officials to identify underground coal mining regions across the state and prepare a roadmap for developing them as tourism destinations. He also stressed on the need for setting up eco-tourism circuits in districts which have abundant natural beauty.Chairing a meeting of the state department for tourism, art-culture, sports and youth affairs at Project Building, Soren said Jharkhand has immense opportunities for eco-tourism and asked officials to prepare comprehensive plans to develop sites in Seraikela-Kharsawan, East Singhbhum, Giridih, Latehar, Hazaribag, Ranchi and other districts.Reviewing the department’s performance, he stressed the need for the planned and integrated development of natural, religious, historical and eco-tourism sites. He also directed officials to prepare a state tourism policy.The CM asked the department to expedite work on the proposed Patratu Viewpoint project and prepare plans for ropeway facilities at Patratu and other suitable tourist destinations. He asked officials to draw up plans for setting up a glass watch tower or glass bridge, cottages at Koyal Viewpoint, trekking facilities and a swimming pool in Netarhat.He also emphasised promoting eco-tourism at Lodh Falls. “Tourism development would strengthen Jharkhand’s religious and cultural identity while creating employment and self-employment opportunities for local communities. Ensure that tourism projects are completed within stipulated timelines while maintaining high standards of quality and modern infrastructure,” CM said at the meeting.While reviewing sports department, Soren said no national or international medal-winning athlete should be forced to take up other occupations due to financial hardships. “Prepare a database of athletes and formulate schemes to provide assistance to sportspersons from economically weaker backgrounds,” he said, stressing on a detailed assessment of the Mega Sports Complex at Khelgaon for establishing a sports university.During the review of the art and culture department, officials informed CM that nearly 12,000 artists have been registered in the state so far. Soren asked the list to be sent to the districts for verification and called for exposure visits for artists through collaboration with fine arts institutions in other states. He also suggested inviting artists from outside Jharkhand to interact with local talent to enhance opportunities for the state’s cultural community.