(a) whether the tourism sector in India is in upbeat and is likely to attract a record
number of tourists;
(b) if so, which are the States that attract major chunk of tourists;
(c) whether the Government proposes any special package/ programme for the
Government of Karnataka; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?
THE MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF TOURISM (SMT. RENUKA CHOWDHURY)
(a): Yes, Sir.
(b): During the year 2004, States of Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh,
Rajasthan and Delhi recorded a large number of foreign tourist visits to their States,
accounting for about 60% of the total foreign tourist visits in the country, during the year.
(c) and (d): Development and promotion of tourist spots/places is primarily the
responsibility of the State Governments concerned. Ministry of Tourism, however,
provides funds to the State Governments for the projects, which are prioritized in
consultation with them every year in various schemes. During the year 2004-05, 12
projects were sanctioned to the State of Karnataka and an amount of Rs.1937.37 lakh was
released to them.