Inner line permit hurdle for tourism in NER

New Delhi, July 27 (UNI) An amount of Rs 3.89 crore has been sanctioned during the year 2006-07 for the Development of Tea Tourism Circuit under scheme for Integrated Development of Tourism Circuits.

In a written reply in the Lok Sabha today, Minister of Tourism and Culture Ambika Soni said the sanctioned project includes items like internal pathways, car parking, paved area, landscaping, water supply system, water purification system, waste disposal system, lighting and illumination system, boundary wall and signages at identified tea gardens.

Responding to another question, Ms Soni said the development and promotion of tourism is primarily the responsibility of the State Government/Union Territory. However, in order to give boost to tourism in the North Eastern States, Central Financial Assistance amount to Rs 127.09 crore has been sanctioned by the Centre for tourism infrastructure development during the financial year 2005-06. In addition, Ministry of Tourism has produced collaterals and promoted and marketed North-East as a tourism destination through print and electronic media and also by enabling them to participate in international travel marts.

She also admitted that the provision of " Inner Line Permit" (ILP) is a hurdle in the development of tourism industry in NER.

She said the ILP falls within the purview of the State Government and it is enforced or relaxed by them based on the prevalent security scenario, local needs and tourism trends. No time frame has been drawn out by the State Government regarding abolishing this permit.

Private sector participation is encouraged in promotion of different segments of tourism sector, Ms Soni added.

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