Guwahati: Ministry of Tourism under its infrastructure development schemes, ‘Swadesh Darshan’ and ‘PRASHAD’ (National Mission on Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive) has provided financial assistance to the northeastern states to develop tourism infrastructure at various tourist destinations.
Under Swadesh Darshan Scheme tourism development has been undertaken at Tier II and Tier III destinations under different themes. Ministry of Tourism has sanctioned 16 projects under Swadesh Darshan Scheme for more than Rs 1300 crores in northeast region such as North East, Heritage, Eco Circuit, Spiritual, Tribal etc.
Under PRASHAD Scheme integrated development of identified pilgrimage and heritage destinations has been undertaken. A total number of six projects have been sanctioned for an amount of Rs 193.61 crores under this scheme in northeast which included “Development of Kamakhya Temple and Pilgrimage destination in Guwahati” for an amount of Rs 29.99 crores.
To discuss development of tourism and issues related to connectivity in the northeastern region, the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India has decided to organize a two day conference on September 13 and 14 in Guwahati under the Chairmanship of Minister of Tourism, Culture and DoNER.
Union Minister of Tourism, Culture and DoNER, G. Kishan Reddy and Chief Minister of Assam Himanta Biswa Sarma will address the inaugural session.
During its presentation in the Plenary Session on September 13, Ministry of Tourism will brief the participants about the several projects and initiatives for the creation of tourism infrastructure, promotion and skill development programmes in the northeast. Presentations will also be given by the Ministry of Culture on promotion of the local art and culture for growth of tourism. Other Central Government ministries like those of Civil Aviation, Railways, Road Transport and Highways and the Department of Telecommunications will also be giving presentations on various initiatives taken by them for development and enhancement of infrastructure and connectivity in the region.
