Sanchi, Chettinad, Srirangam to get focused development

New Delhi, Aug 7 (UNI) With a focus on conservation and promotion of heritage destinations, the Union Tourism Ministry has sanctioned 27 projects with a total outlay of Rs 70 crore during the first four months of the current financial year.

Some of the projects so cleared are for the promotion of heritage destinations such as Sanchi, Chettinad and Srirangam, Ministry sources said here today.

Sanctions have been accorded to projects for development and promotion of eco tourism at Dongargarh, Kodar (Chhattisgarh), Pathiramanal Bio-Park (Kerala) and Bungus Valley (J&K).

Kargil and Drass-Panikhar are being developed as tourist destinations.

Sources said financial assistance has been extended for development of Rural Tourism projects in Gujarat, Jharkhand, Jammu and Kashmir, Nagaland, Orissa, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal.

During the current year, the ministry will provide assistance for some mega projects for integrated development of circuits and destinations.

A double-pronged strategy has been implemented during the tenth plan period by upgrading the tourism infrastructure and vigorous marketing under the banner of 'Incredible India Campaign' to position India as a global brand.

During the tenth plan, the ministry has sanctioned 1160 projects amounting to Rs 2011.68 crore to various States and Union Territories.

Sources said the ministry proposed to continue its support for the creation of world class infrastructure in the country so that the existing tourism products could be further improved and expanded to meet new market requirements and enhance the competitiveness of India as a tourist destination.

In consultation with the State Governments and UTs, the ministry has identified several tourist circuits and destinations for integrated development.

UNI