In 2007-08 contribution of tourism in the country’s GDP and total jobs was 5.92% and 9.24%

In 2007-08 contribution of tourism in the country’s GDP and total jobs was 5.92% and 9.24%

Kumari Selja, union minister of tourism, while addressing the Consultative Committee Meeting informed that the contribution of tourism in the country’s GDP and total jobs was 5.92% and 9.24% during 2007-08.

The Minister said infrastructure development of tourist destinations is a priority and the Ministry of Tourism provides financial assistance of Rs.25 crore and Rs.50 crore for development of mega destinations and circuits as against Rs.5 crore and Rs.8 crore for normal destinations and circuits. She said new initiatives have been taken to provide the required skilled manpower in hospitality sector which includes skill training in Food Production (Cooks) and F&B (waiters) sector under the Hunar se Rozgar tak scheme.

She said Reserve Bank of India has de-linked credit for Hotel projects from commercial real estate, thereby enabling hotel projects to avail credit at relaxed norms and reduced interest rates. Listing other initiatives of the Ministry, Kumari Selja said creation of additional room capacity for the Commonwealth Games 2010 in NCR region is under progress and so far over 55% hotel rooms were found to be complete. She said directions have been given to complete the remaining well before the Games. The Minister also referred to Incredible India campaign, wellness and rural tourism, cruise tourism and new policies of heliport and caravan tourism. She said the new thrust areas are Cruise tourism and wellness tourism.