(a) whether the Government have targeted an increase in the growth rate of inflow of foreign tourists in the country
during Tenth Plan;
(b) if so, whether the Government have identified various sectors for getting special funding in the Tenth Plan to
meet such targets;
(c) if so, whether the Steering Committee and Working Group on Tourism has emphasised on tourism development during the Tenth Plan; and
(d) if so, the steps taken by the Government in this regard?
MINISTER OF TOURISM AND CULTURE (SHRI JAGMOHAN)
(a) to (d): A Statement is laid on the Table of the House.
STATEMENT REFERRED TO PART (a) TO (d) OF STARRED QUESTION NO. 218 FOR 4.8.2003 REGARDING ARRIVAL OF FOREIGN TOURISTS.
(a), (b) and (c) Yes, Sir.
(d) The Department of Tourism has introduced schemes of Integrated Development of Tourist Circuits,
Product/Infrastructure and Destination Development and Assistance for Large Revenue Generating Projects
during the 10th Plan to improve tourist infrastructure in the country. It has been decided to develop
tourism hubs which synthesize elements of tourism, culture and civic governance.
To upgrade human resources in tourism sector, the Government has embarked on a plan to strengthen the existing
Institutes for Human Resources Development as well as setting up new Food Craft Institutes of Hotel Management. Capacity
Building for Service Provoders scheme has been introduced which entails training programmes for workers in the tourism
sector including those in the unorganised sector. A comprehensive scheme of training of tourist guides is also underway.
To position India as an attractive tourist destination in various markets overseas, the Department of Tourism
has embarked on an aggressive Action Plan which includes an integrated electronic campaign on the leading T.V. Channels
across the globe supplemented by the print advertisement campaign. The plan also includes participation in the select
Travel Shows and Marts, road shows and seminars, press and travel trade briefings, direct mailing, web marketing and
production of publicity and information material, including CD ROMs and collaterals and synergised promotions with
Indian Missions, Travel Trade and Airlines. In order to provide first hand knowledge of Indian Tourism Products and
Services, international tour operators, media personalities and openion makers are invited on familiarization trips to
India to help promotion of tourism to India.