(a) whether sufficient infrastructure is available in Lakshadweep to attract and entertain the international tourists;
(b) if so, the number of inhabited and un-habited islands in Lakshadweep opened to the international tourism;
(c) the number of tourist operators given permission to operate tourist centres in Lakshadweep; and
(d) the details of the tourism proposals pending with the Ministry and the time by which these are likely to be cleared?
THE MINISTER OF TOURISM AND CULTURE (SMT. AMBIKA SONI)
(a): Development and promotion of tourism infrastructure is the responsibility of the UT Administration. However, Ministry of Tourism provides central financial assistance on the basis of project proposals prioritized in consultation with them every year under the following schemes:
(i) Tourist Circuits
(ii) Product Infrastructure & Destination Development
(iii) Large Revenue Generating projects
(iv) Fairs and Festivals
Project proposals that are complete in all respect, are processed on the basis of inter-se-priority and funds released, subject to availability under the respective heads.
(b): The uninhabited Island of Bangaram has been opened to the International tourists. Inhabited Islands of Agatti and Kadmat are also opened to the international tourists.
(c): Three Tour Operators as under have been given permission by the UT Administration to operate tourist centres in Lakshadweep:
(1) M/s Hotel and Allied Traders Pvt. Ltd. Kochi
(2) Society for Promotion of Nature Tourism and Sports
(3) Shri T. Muthukoya of Amini Island
(d): No project proposal, complete in all respect, as per guidelines, is pending with the Ministry of Tourism.