Central aid for tourism may touch Rs 50 cr

From sanctioning Rs 5 crore for the development of each tourist destination and Rs 8 crore for one circuit that comprises three destinations, central financial assistance to the states and Union territories may soon be increased to Rs 50 crore.

The finance ministry's Expenditure Finance Committee has agreed to the proposal. The ministry of tourism is now awaiting Cabinet approval.

"We are also changing our strategy, from developing many destinations across the country to developing a few in a phased manner, in such a way as to create a world-class experience for tourists visiting these sites," said Amitabh Kant, joint secretary, ministry of tourism.

From good roads to hygienic public bathrooms, the aim of the increased central financial assistance is to provide all infrastructure facilities required by tourists at such destinations and within circuits.

Based on tourism potential, the ministry has identified 16 destinations/circuits. Some of the selected destinations include Mahabalipuram, Elephanta Caves, New Delhi, Hampi, Ajmer, churches in Goa, Rishikesh and Haridwar.

Master planning of these destinations and circuits will be undertaken so as to develop them in an integrated and holistic manner. This job will be entrusted to the Housing and Urban Development Corporation Ltd (Hudco).

The implementation of all these projects will be with the central public works department (CPWD).

The purpose of roping in Hudco and the CPWD is to create uniformity in the design and implementation of centrally assisted projects in the country.

A sub-committee in the tourism ministry will be constituted under Kant and will include Hudco's chief of design and development as well as a nominated chief engineer from the CPWD.

This sub-committee will be expected to interact with the secretary concerned and directors of state governments to ensure that these infrastructure and development projects are put on track immediately.