Question : Promotion of Tourism in Hill Stations of Sahyadri Ranges

(a) whether the Government proposes to develop any programmes for the development of local tourist places all over the country and if so, the details thereof;
(b) whether the Government proposes to promote hill stations situated in Sahyadri ranges in Maharashtra such as Mahabaleshwar, Lonawala and Panchgani at national and international level for tourism purpose and if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the Government proposes to inform State Government in this regard; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE FOR TOURISM (INDEPENDENT CHARGE)
(SHRI K.J. ALPHONS)

(a) to (d): The Ministry under its schemes of Swadesh Darshan- Integrated development of theme based tourist circuits and PRASHAD- National Mission on Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive provides central financial assistance to State Governments/Union Territory Administrations for development of tourism infrastructure in the country.

The projects under the above schemes are identified for development in consultation with the State Governments/Union Territory Administrations and are sanctioned subject to availability of funds, submission of suitable detailed project reports, adherence to scheme guidelines and utilization of funds released earlier. During implementation of project the Ministry of Tourism regularly liaises with State Governments/Union Territory Administrations to monitor implementation of projects.

The Ministry of Tourism promotes India as a holistic destination covering its various tourism destinations and products including hill stations across the country in domestic and international markets. The information pertaining to the hill stations is available on the Incredible India website of the Ministry of Tourism and the same are also being promoted through social media.

The Ministry of Tourism carries out all its promotional activities in coordination with the State Governments/Union Territories. The State Governments are invited to participate in road shows/major tourism fairs being organized/participated by the Ministry of Tourism. The Ministry of Tourism also provides financial assistance under the scheme of Market Development Assistance to State Governments/Union Territories for carrying out promotional activities in foreign markets.

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