Question : DEVELOPMENT OF TOURISM IN MAHARASHTRA



(a) whether the Government have drawn up any specific plan for the development of tourism in Maharashtra during the last financial year; and

(b) if so, the measures taken by the Government and the amount earmarked/released for the purpose?

Answer given by the minister

MINISTER OF TOURISM AND CULTURE (SHRI JAGMOHAN)

(a) and (b): During the 10th Five Year Plan, Department of Tourism, Government of India has decided to identify integrated travel circuits in the country each year. These circuits are finalised and developed in close coordination and partnership with the State/UT Governments and the concerned Govt. of India Departments. In addition to this it has also been decided to identify one major destination in each State/UT Administration, each year in consultation with them for overall development including the State of Maharashtra.

On the basis of project proposals received by the Department of Tourism, Govt. of India during the year 2002-03 from the Government of Maharashtra,8 projects were sanctioned for central financial assistance of Rs.623.46 lakhs. The Department of Culture has sanctioned 10 projects for Rs.285.30 lakhs.