Question : PILGRIMAGE CITIES PACKAGE



(a) whether the Government propose to allocate funds to Tamilnadu during 2000-2001 under the `pilgrimage cities package` in view of abundant temples in the State;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) if not, the reasons therefor?

Answer given by the minister


MINISTER OF TOURISM AND CULTURE (SHRI ANANTH KUMAR)

(a),(b) & (c) : Development of places of tourist importance including Pilgrim Centres is the responsibility of the State Government/UT administration concerned. However, based on the specific proposals prioritized in consultation with the State Government/UT Administration, the Central Department of Tourism extends financial assistance for provision of infrastructure/basic facilities at selected pilgrim centres in the country every year.

The State Government of Tamil Nadu through Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation operates `Pilgrimage Package Tours` to various pilgrimage cities such as Madurai, Thanjavur, Velankanni, Palani, Nagore, Tirupati, Mantralayam, etc.