Khandu urges centre to open 7 new pilgirmage circuits

Arunachal Pradesh Tourism, Art & Culture Minister Pema Khandu has urged the Centre to open seven new pilgrimage circuits in the state to attract religious tourists.
Khandu accompanied by Tawang mla Tsering Tashi on Friday called on Union Minister of State for Tourism (Independent) Shripad Yesso Naik at his New Delhi office and submitted a memorandum apprising him of the issues confronting the state, an official communique informed here today.
Khandu briefed the minister about the diverse culture of the state and its huge tourism potential.
He requested the ministry for setting up of Adventure Sports Academy at Menchukha and Promotion of White Water Rafting in the five major rivers of the State namely Kameng, Siang, Lohit, Tirap and Subansiri.

Khandu also informed the minister about the need for special dispensation to the state in matters of central funding and requested him for timely release of funds from his Ministry.
He also urged reviewing and relaxing appropriately the provisions of PAP and RAP in the state to attract more foreign tourists.

Speaking on culture affairs, Khandu sought special attention of the ministry for the state which is lagging behind in availing the central assistance due to various factors.
He called for special consideration of the projects being submitted by the state.
Taking keen interest in development of tourism in Arunachal Pradesh, the MoS assured all help from his ministry on priority basis and committed to clear all the tourism projects of the state pending in his ministry.

He also assured assistance to the state from the Cultural Affairs Ministry, the communique said.
Khandu, extended invitation to the minister to grace the function of Indigenous Faith & Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh (IFCSAP) on October 12 next at Naharlagun which the minister accepted, the communique added.