Question : Museum on Ramayana

(a) whether the Government proposes to develop an international museum and research centre dedicated to Lord Rama and events from the Ramayana;

(b) if so, the details of the progress made so far on the proposed museum of Rama and Ramayana in Ayodhya;

(c) the total amount of budget earmarked/allocated for construction of this museum along with time by which it is likely to be constructed;

(d) whether there is any role of Ram Advisory Board in view of its blueprint and construction works of this museum; and

(e) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (IC) CULTURE & TOURISM

(DR. MAHESH SHARMA)

(a) to (e) Ministry of Culture operates Museum Grant Scheme under which financial assistance is provided to State Governments/voluntary organizations/Societies/Trusts registered under the Indian Societies Act of 1860 (XXI) or a similar legislation of the State Governments, to set up new museums and development of existing museums for which proposals are required to be submitted in the prescribed proforma alongwith requisite documents. Till date Ministry has not received any proposal on Museum on Lord Rama and Ramayana in Ayodhya.

However, Ministry of Tourism has received a proposal from the Government of Uttar Pradesh for Rs. 154.57 Crore under Ramayana Circuit of Swadesh Darshan Scheme. It includes a project of living experience of Lord Rama to depict the life and values of Lord Ram with Rs. 85.34 Crore. This has been approved by Ministry of Tourism in-principal.

A Committee for Ramayan Circuit is constituted to advise on projects undertaken under the Circuit.