Statement of Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Tourism and Culture Shri Shripad Naik at the Press Conference on Initiatives, Achievements and Policies

Following is the text of statement of Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Tourism and Culture Shri Shripad Naik at the Press Conference on Initiatives, Achievements and Policies of Ministry of Tourism and Ministry of Culture held here today: There has never been a time when the Tourism and Culture Sectors have been accorded such high priority by the Government of India. For the first time these sectors have found a special mention in the Prime Ministers Independence Day Speech. The Honble Prime Minister is a firm believer in the significant role of culture and tourism in the economic and political growth of the country. The Honble Prime Minister entrusted me with the charge of both Culture and Tourism Ministries so that the synergy between the two Ministries can be used for the holistic development of tourism industry at the same time promoting our culture and preserving heritage sites. Both my Ministries have been working in coordination in a number of areas such as conservation and protection of heritage sites, which enriches the experience of the tourists and in turn increases tourist visits and repeat visits. Many initiatives have been started by both the Ministries and a number of positive achievements have been made. Rani ki Vav (Gujarat) and the Great Himalayan National Park (H.P.) were inscribed on the World Heritage List in June this year. Such inclusion generally guarantees an increase in international footfalls. The project MAUSAM, Maritime Routes and Cultural Landscapes has also been launched. This new initiative of Ministry of Culture in itself is expected to enhance tourism as well as promote Indias soft power. Both Ministries have also taken the initiative to work together signifying a co-branding exercise under the Incredible India umbrella and have jointly organized Festivals of India and Road Shows for example, in China and in all the Festivals organized by the Ministry of Culture. India Tour Operators are being encouraged to encash on the interest in India created by these Festivals. On its part the Ministry of Tourism has played an active role in promoting abroad cuisine from different parts of the country. Both my Ministries are laying special emphasis in digitalizing the available data and processes. As you will see I will be e-launching a new website and a logo of the Ministry of Culture, mobile applications giving details of cultural activities being organized by the various cultural institutions. We are also starting facilities for online filing of applications pertaining to various schemes of the Ministries of Culture and Tourism. Ministry of Culture has also become active on social media platforms. Both my Ministries have been putting into use technology for service delivery to the stakeholders. Electronic Visa on Arrival has been announced. Tourism Ministry is upgrading its official website and has also begun work on translating it into eight international languages. Various services for the industry like hotel classification and recognition of tour operators and travel agents are now online. Digital collection of nearly 10,000 images in respect of 10 selected museums on Jatan software has been undertaken and the website Museumsofindia.gov.in is expected to be launched soon. This preservation and protection will not only conserve our national cultural heritage but also promote and project our tourist sites thereby enhancing tourism. As a substantative step towards this objective of enhancing tourism Rs. 100 crores have been allocated to ASI for preservation of archaeological sites. Besides, two new schemes have been announced for development of tourist circuits around specific themes and National Mission on Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive (PRASAD) and an allocation of Rs. 500 crore and Rs. 100 crore has been made respectively in the current financial year. In addition to these initiatives the Ministry of Tourism is developing Buddhist Circuit and is also organizing the Buddhist Conclave from 26 28 September, 2014 at Bodhgaya. On its part, the Ministry of Culture is organising Buddhist Festivals in East Asia, thus giving an impetus to Buddhist pilgrimage tourism in India from these countries. We are also organizing several commemorations this year. Rs. 200 crore have been provided in this years budget for the Statue of Unity, the Statue of Sardar Vallabhai Patel. With a view to developing meaningful interface with the State Governments we have undertaken a new initiative under which a draft MOU has been circulated to all the State Governments with a view to ensuring hassle free movement and in providing quality services in and around various ASI sites. Above all, the Honble Prime Minister has announced that 2015 will be celebrated as the Year of China in India and 2016 will be celebrated as the Year of India in China. I look forward to your questions and constructive suggestions. Let me inform you that our objective in meeting today is to discuss the achievements of both my Ministries during the last few months. So let us focus on the subject. My team of officers is here with me and will provide you information wherever required. I thank you for your constructive support extended to my Ministries and look forward to the fruitful interaction.

Statement of Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Tourism and Culture Shri Shripad Naik at the Press Conference on Initiatives, Achievements and Policies

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