Budget 2014 : Proposals boosting Tourism
Presenting the Union Budget for the fiscal 2014-15, the Finance Minister Arun Jaitley proposed various measures to boost tourism in the country. Not only will these measures enhance the government’s revenue inflow, but it will also have a positive impact on the Real estate sector in the states where these measures are planned to be implemented.
E-Visas on entry
An important and much-awaited pronouncement that the minister made was with regards to introduction of E-visas at nine major airports in India. This will be undertaken in a phased manner. The major advantage of this measure is that it will facilitate visas on arrival thereby enabling tourists to avoid the hassles of applying for visas and waiting for it to get sanctioned. This will boost tourism in the country.
Development of Archaeological sites
Another important proposal that the government has pronounced is will regards to the allocation of Rs 100 crore for the development of archaeological sites. Considering that many such sites are facing ruin due to neglect, the government has taken it upon itself with the responsibility of developing and maintaining such sites. In this context, Gaya has been proposed to be developed as a world class tourism spot.
Development of Memorials
There was also a proposal to develop a War Memorial at Princess Park near India Gate in New Delhi at an estimated cost of Rs 100 crore. Besides, there were also plans to build a war museum. There were also plans to develop a National Police Memorial at an estimated cost of Rs 50 crore. This will boost tourism to a large extend to these destinations thereby increasing government revenues.
Other proposals
Another important proposal that was pronounced in the Budget was with regards to the upgradation of an indoor and outdoor stadium in Jammu and Kashmir as per international standards at an estimated cost of about Rs 200 crore. Besides, and estimated Rs 4200 crore has been proposed for the Jal Marg Vikas project on the river Ganga. It will connect the 1620-km waterway between Allahabad with Haldia thereby boosting tourist movement along this route. It will also provide a surge to real estate activity along the water front areas along this route.
