Ahmedabad, 11 December 2014

The central government has released Rs2903.19 crore in last three years since 2012-13 for development of tourism infrastructure in the country. Of this Rs 4.86 crore were sanctioned for one project in Gujarat, while two tourism circuits have been identified in the state. Dr. Mahesh Sharma, minister of state for Tourism (Independent Charge) stated in Rajya Sabha on December 10, 2014 in reply to the question raised by member of Rajya Sabha Mr. Parimal Nathwani.

Mr. Parimal Nathwani wanted to know about number of tourism infrastructure projects approved and financed in last two years and current year, special schemes for investment in tourism infrastructure development and amount earmarked for development of tourist spot. The minister also informed the central government has identified 50 circuits/destinations for development of tourism and has forwarded the same to the respective States/UTs for their comment.

The minister in his reply informed that of total 50 tourist circuits/destinations two are in Gujarat and one is in Jharkhand. Two tourism circuits identified in Gujarat include (1) Dwarka-Bet Dwarka – Gopi Talav and Nageshwar and (2) Gir (Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary) – Somnath (Somnath Beach, Somnath Temple, Triveni Tirth) – Ahmedpur Mandvi (Ahmedpur Mandvi Beach) and Junagadh (Uparkot and other sites).

The central government sanctioned Rs1033.34 crore for development of 153 tourism infrastructure projects in 2012-13, Rs1664.85 crore for 226 projects in 2013-14 and Rs205 crore for 30 projects in current year, he said.

Dr Sharma also informed that National Mission on Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive (PRASAD) has been announced and Rs100 crore has been provided in the budget for beautification and improvement of the amenities and infrastructure at pilgrimage centers of all faiths. In addition, an amount of Rs500 crore has also been provided in the budget for the year 2014-15 for development of five tourism circuits around specific themes in the country, said the minister.