(a) whether the Government have formulated any policy to promote Heritage and Eco-tourism in the country;
(b) if so, the details thereof, State-wise;
(c) the details of projects submitted by each State Government to the Union Government for approval, till-date; and
(d) by when the projects are likely to be given clearance?
MINISTER OF STATE FOR TOURISM (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) (SMT.RENUKA CHOWDHURY)
(a) and (b) : Yes, Sir. The Government formulated a National Eco-Tourism Policy and circulated to all the State Governments/Union Territories and tourism trade. Greater emphasis has been laid on the promotion of Eco-Tourism and also for the conservation and preservation of cultural heritage in National Tourism Policy 2002.
(c) and (d) : The Central financial assistance is extended to the State Governments on the basis of the proposals received from them, subject to availability of funds and inter-se priorities. An amount of Rs.494 lakhs has been sanctioned to the Govt. of Sikkim for setting up of an Indian Himalayan Centre for Adventure and Eco-Tourism at Chemchey in South Sikkim.