SCHEME FOR PROMOTION OF TOURISM IN NE STATES
Lok Sabha
The Minister of Tourism & Culture, Smt. Ambika Soni told the Lok Sabha today that Development & 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.12709.57 lakhs has been sanctioned by the Government of India 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.
Acknowledging that the “Inner Line Permit” is a hurdle in the development of tourism industry in North East, Smt. Soni said that the ‘Inner Line Permit’ 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 Governments regarding abolishing this permit, she added.
The Minister further said that the Government is encouraging Private sector participation is encouraged in promotion of different segments of tourism sector.
This information was given by the Minister in reply to a question by Prof. Vijay Kumar Malhotra, Shri Mohan Rawale and Shri Chandra Mani Tripathi.
AK/JA