High domestic air passenger tariff is adversely affecting the tourism and causing financial loss to the States with rich tourism potential. Realistic Rationalization of duties on Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) can help in the growth of domestic tourism. Hence, actively consider review the prevailing duty structure on ATF while the Central Tourism Ministry will approach Finance Ministry for reclassification of ATF for lesser duties on it. This was stated by the Minister of State for Tourism, Smt. Renuka Chowdhury while reviewing tourism projects of Rajasthan with Smt. Usha Punia, MoS Tourism of Rajasthan and senior officials of the State.
Smt. Renuka Chowdhury suggested that the State to set up single window clearance for tourism projects to encourage private partnership. Complementing the State for developing new tourism projects, she suggested refurbishment of Palace on Wheels and better civic amenities at prominent tourism destinations. Smt. Renuka Chowdhury said that the Centre would like to review the progress of implementation of centrally sponsored tourism schemes quarterly to ensure time bound completion. Further funds will be released only after the receipt of utilization certificates of earlier released, she said. The Centre has sanctioned Rupees 30 crores for various projects in the State, which include development of NCR circuit, sound and night show at Amber, Jaipur etc.
Briefing about the Tourism Projects being implemented in Rajasthan, Tourism Minister of the State said that Rajasthan has registered 54.6% increase in tourist arrival during 2004. From France only, about 10 lakh tourists visiting the State during the year. Mrs. Punia said that the State Government has decided to refurbish Palace on Wheels with the cost of 8 crore rupees. A blue print for International Conference center at Jaipur has been prepared. Five new circuits are being developed, she added.
NCJ/DT
(Release ID :9034)