(a) the State-wise details of the circuits that the Government has accepted for eco-tourism;
(b) whether the eco-tourism has brought about any change in the tourism sector of those areas;
(c) if so, the details thereof; and
(d) whether the Government proposes to approve some other projects for eco-tourism and if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF STATE FOR TOURISM (INDEPENDENT CHARGE)
(SHRI PRAHLAD SINGH PATEL)
(a) to (c): Eco Circuit has been identified as one of the fifteen thematic circuits for development under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme. The details of projects sanctioned under Eco- tourism circuit theme of this scheme are given at Annexure.
Under Eco Tourism Circuit the focus of Ministry is to develop basic tourism infrastructure in the eco sensitive areas in the country with involvement of the local community and objective that the overall economic development is compatible with the environment and socio-cultural characteristics of the local community. The interventions under this circuit are minimal and small scale keeping in mind the fragile nature of the destination. The projects sanctioned under the Eco Circuits are at implementation stage.
(d): Submission of proposals by the State Governments under the scheme is a continuous process. The projects under the scheme are identified for development in consultation with the State Governments/Union Territory Administrations and are sanctioned subject to availability of funds, submission of suitable Detailed Project Reports, adherence to scheme guidelines and utilization of funds released earlier.
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