(a) whether the Government have taken any steps to attract tourists to the ancient
pilgrim sites and historical tourist places in the country;
(b) if so, the details thereof; and
(c) the amount proposed to be spent on the development of these places during 2002-
2003?
MINISTER OF TOURISM & CULTURE (SHRI JAGMOHAN)
(a) & (b) : With a view to increase tourist traffic, promotion of identified travel circuits
covering places of pilgrimage, historical and cultural significance forms component of
the scheme for integrated development. The activities would include preparation of
Master Plans in association with the State Governments, improvement in accessibility,
decongestion, improvement in environment around the destination, illumination of the
destination, lighting of the approaches etc. In addition to infrastructural development the
sites are promoted, through field offices in India and abroad, to attract tourists.
(c) : During the year 2002-2003, an allocation of Rs. 41.50 crores has been made for this
purpose.