Question : Promotion of Eco-tourism

(a) whether the Government has developed the concept of eco-tourism in the country;
(b) if so, the details thereof along with the places identified in this regard, State/ UT-wise;
(c) the details of projects undertaken for the promotion of eco-tourism in various States of the country, State/UT-wise including Andhra Pradesh along with the progress made in this regard; and
(d) the funds allocated and expenditure incurred on the said projects during the last three years along with the revenue generated therefrom?

MINISTER OF STATE FOR TOURISM (INDEPENDENT CHARGE)
(DR. MAHESH SHARMA)

(a) to (d): Yes, Madam. Ministry of Tourism has identified Eco Circuit as one of the thirteen thematic circuits for development under Swadesh Darshan Scheme. The submission of project proposals by the State Governments/UT Administrations under Swadesh Darshan Scheme is a continuous process. The projects are sanctioned subject to availability of funds, liquidation of pending utilization certificates, submission of suitable Detailed Project Report and adherence to the scheme guidelines for creating tourist infrastructure facilities for public good.

The details of projects sanctioned along with funds released under the Eco Circuit of Swadesh Darshan Scheme are given at Annexure. However, Ministry of Tourism has sanctioned two projects under the Coastal Circuit theme under Swadesh Darshan to State Government of Andhra Pradesh as detailed below:
<pre> (Rs. in Crore)
Name of project/Year of Sanction Sanctioned amount Released amount
Development of Kakinada Hope Island Konaseema as World Class Coastal & Eco Tourism Circuit in Andhra Pradesh. (2014-15) 69.83 34.92
Development of Coastal Tourism Circuit in Sri Potti Sriramalu Nellore under Swadesh Darshan Scheme in Andhra Pradesh.
(2015-16) 60.38 12.08
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