₹3,295.76 Crore Approved for 40 Tourism Projects to Develop Lesser-Known Destinations: A Key Development in Current Affairs
In a significant move to enhance tourism and promote balanced regional development, the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, has approved a total of 40 projects worth ₹3,295.76 crore. These projects are aimed at the development of lesser-known tourism destinations across 23 states, marking a shift towards promoting sustainable tourism and cultural preservation. By diverting attention from overburdened tourist spots, this initiative seeks to increase the appeal of underexplored locations and provide a more balanced growth in the tourism sector.
Key Features of the Tourism Development Projects
The approved projects cover a wide range of themes, including eco-tourism, heritage preservation, wellness retreats, adventure tourism, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) infrastructure. Below are some notable projects from various states:
Andhra Pradesh
- Gandikota Fort and Gorge: An allocation of ₹77.91 crore will be used to enrich this historical and scenic site, enhancing its appeal as a tourism destination.
- Akhanda Godavari Development: With a budget of ₹94.44 crore, this project focuses on improving the infrastructure and accessibility of Akhanda Godavari, a popular location known for its scenic beauty and cultural significance.
Assam
- Rang Ghar in Sivasagar: The ₹94.76 crore allocated will beautify and enhance the Rang Ghar, one of Assam’s most iconic historical landmarks, drawing visitors interested in heritage tourism.
- Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden: With ₹97.12 crore, this development aims to expand the Assam State Zoo, creating an eco-tourism destination that blends nature conservation with tourism.
Karnataka
- Roerich and Devika Rani Estate in Bengaluru: A budget of ₹99.17 crore will go into developing an ecotourism and cultural hub at the historic estate of famous artist Roerich and Devika Rani, contributing to cultural tourism and nature-based experiences in Bengaluru.
Maharashtra
- Ex-INS Guldar Underwater Museum in Sindhudurg: The government has allocated ₹46.91 crore to create an underwater museum, a unique tourist attraction that will boost adventure tourism and marine heritage.
- Ram-Kal Path in Nashik: A budget of ₹99.14 crore will go toward developing the Ram-Kal Path, an important pilgrimage and cultural route in Nashik, enhancing both religious and heritage tourism.
Rajasthan
- Amber-Nahargarh Area: With an investment of ₹49.31 crore, the development of this area will attract both cultural enthusiasts and tourists interested in heritage sites in Jaipur.
- Jal Mahal in Jaipur: A ₹96.61 crore project aims to further develop Jal Mahal, enhancing its appeal as a major tourist attraction by preserving its heritage and improving visitor infrastructure.
Diverse Themes and Sustainability Focus
The projects span a wide variety of themes, such as eco-tourism, wellness retreats, and adventure tourism, aligning with the government’s commitment to promoting sustainable tourism. Additionally, investments in MICE infrastructure aim to make India a more attractive destination for international business events.
These efforts are a part of a larger strategy to shift focus from over-exploited tourist hotspots to lesser-known but equally promising locations. By doing so, the government seeks to boost local economies, alleviate the pressure on well-established destinations, and promote more sustainable and responsible tourism practices across the country.
Conclusion
The ₹3,295.76 crore investment in 40 tourism projects is a testament to the government’s vision for a diverse and sustainable tourism landscape in India. By focusing on underexplored locations, these projects will not only enhance India’s tourism infrastructure but also create new opportunities for local businesses and communities. With a focus on eco-tourism, cultural preservation, and adventure tourism, these projects will ensure that the country’s rich heritage and natural beauty are showcased in a manner that benefits both the environment and local populations.
