(a) whether the growing incidence of terrorist activities in the North-East States and Jammu & Kashmir by the neighbouring countries is causing enormous loss to tourism;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the Government has prepared any action plan in this regard; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF STATE FOR TOURISM (INDEPENDENT CHARGE)
(DR. MAHESH SHARMA)
(a): Though terrorist activities have, to some extent, affected tourism locally, they have not had an impact on overall tourism in the country. The number of Domestic Tourists Visits (DTVs) and Foreign Tourist Visits (FTVs) to different States/Union Territories (UTs) during 2015 have registered a positive growth of 11.6% and 4.4%, respectively.
(b): The State/UT-wise break-up of DTVs and FTVs, including the States of Jammu & Kashmir and North Eastern States, during 2014 and 2015 are given in Annexure.
(c) and (d): Development and promotion of tourism sector is the responsibility of the State Governments and Union Territory Administrations. The Ministry of Tourism provides Central Financial Assistance (CFA), from various plan schemes, to them for tourism projects subject to adherence of existing scheme guidelines, availability of funds and liquidation of utilisation certificates for funds released earlier.
In addition, Government has undertaken following special measures for development and promotion of tourism in Jammu & Kashmir and North East Region:
i. Provision of complimentary space to the State of Jammu & Kashmir and North Eastern States in India Pavilions set up at major International Travel Fairs and Exhibitions.
ii. Government of India employees are allowed to convert their home town LTC to all India LTC for visiting Jammu & Kashmir and North East Region.
iii. 100% central financial assistance for organizing fairs & festivals is allowed to the North Eastern States and the State of Jammu & Kashmir.
iv. Ministry of Tourism, as part of its on-going activities, annually releases print, electronic, online and outdoor media campaigns in the international and domestic markets, under the Incredible India brand-line, to promote various tourism destinations and products of the country, including the lesser known destinations which have tourism potential. The Ministry of Tourism has been releasing special campaigns on Jammu & Kashmir and North East Region on Doordarshan and Private TV channels to promote tourism in the regions.
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