(a) whether the Government have taken any steps to develop rural areas as tourist- destinations in the country;
(b) if so, the details thereof, State-wise;
(c) the time bound programme formulated in this regard; and
(d) the number of rural places developed as tourist-spots so far, State-wise?
MINISTER OF TOURISM AND CULTURE (SHRI JAGMOHAN)
(a): Yes, Sir. The Department of Tourism, Government of India has introduced a
scheme to develop rural tourism in the country in the 10th Five Year Plan.
(b): Under the scheme, a maximum amount of Rs.50.00 lakhs is proposed for rural
tourism projects. The financial assistance will be provided for undertaking the following
works:
- Improvement of the surroundings of the village. This would include activities like landscaping, development of parks, fencing, compound wall etc.
- Improvements to roads within the Panchayat limits. This shall not include any major road which connects the village.
- Providing for improvement in solid waste management and sewerage management(only capital costs).
- Construction of Wayside Amenities.
- Procurement of equipments directly related to tourism, like Water Sports, Adventure Sports, Eco-friendly modes of transport for moving within the tourism zone.
- Refurbishment of the Monuments.
- Signages.
- Reception Centres.
- Tourist Accommodation.
(c) and (d): The rural tourism scheme has been introduced in the current financial
year. The Department of Tourism has sanctioned funds for the following projects
during the year 2002-2003 so far.
(Rs. in lakhs)
Sl. No. Name of Project Amount Sanctioned
1. Rural Tourism Project at Kokkare Bellur, Karnataka 50.00
2. Rural Tourism Project at Raghurajpur, Orissa 40.00
3. Rural Tourism Project at Jageshwar, Uttaranchal 50.00