(a) whether the Government has recently proposed to launch new tourism projects to promote tourism at large scale in the country;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the Government has sanctioned such projects for West Bengal which has immense potential for tourism development; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF STATE FOR TOURISM (INDEPENDENT CHARGE)
(SHRI K.J. ALPHONS)
(a) to (d): A statement is laid on the table of the House.
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STATEMENT IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (d) OF LOK SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO.†*7 ANSWERED ON 04.02.2019 REGARDING NEW TOURISM PROJECTS.
(a) and (b): Ministry of Tourism has taken several initiatives for development and promotion of tourism at large scale in the country which includes the following:
i. Launched the Swadesh Darshan Scheme with a vision to develop theme based tourist circuits.
ii. Launched the National Mission on Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD) Scheme for holistic development of identified pilgrimage destinations.
iii. Identified 17 Iconic Tourist sites in the country for development.
iv. Launched the Adopt a Heritage Project for development and maintenance of tourist amenities at heritage sites/monuments and other tourist sites.
v. Development and promotion of ‘Niche Tourism’ products to attract tourist with specific interest and to ensure repeat visits for the unique products in which India has a comparative advantage.
vi. Launched 24x7 toll free Multi-Lingual Tourist Helpline.
vii. Promoting India as a holistic tourism destination including its various tourism sites and products through Incredible India 2.0 Campaign in important and potential tourism generating markets.
viii. Providing facility of e-Visa for 5 sub-categories i.e. e-Tourist visa, e-Business visa, e-Medical visa, e-Medical Attendant visa and e-Conference visa for nationals of 166 countries.
(c) and (d): Ministry of Tourism has sanctioned projects having potential for tourism development in West Bengal under its various schemes which is given at Annexure.
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