(a) whether China has indicated to merge its Silk Route Programme with India’s Mausam and other plans to enhance connectivity with South Asian nations;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) the reaction of the Government thereto;
(d) the steps taken by the Government with respect to enha- ncing connectivity with China and the South Asian Countries; and
(e) the common benefits likely to be derived as a result thereof.
MINISTER OF STATE, CULTURE AND TOURISM (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) AND MINISTER OF STATE, CIVIL AVIATION (DR. MAHESH SHARMA)
(a) to (e) No, Madam. Archaeological Survey of India has not received any communication regarding the merger of Silk Road Programme with India’s Mausam. The Government of India is regularly attending the meetings of coordi- nating Committee on serial nomination of Silk Road sites and has agreed to follow the corridor strategy adopted in this connection by UNESCO. The Conservation team of ASI has proposals to work in Nepal and Srilanka. A collabo- rative programme on Silk Route may enhance sustainable tourism development along the historic Silk Route. It may stimulate investment and promote the conservation of the route’s natural and cultural heritage.