India’s remote northeastern states experienced a strong rise in overseas visitors in 2014.
According to data from the country’s Ministry of Tourism, the region welcomed 118,552 international visitors last year, up 39.8% compared to 2013, and 78.9% more than in 2012.
And to further promote tourism to the region, the ministry has announced the provision of additional funding for the region. A total of INR1.45 billion (US$22.5 million) will be allocated to tourism development in northeast India in the 2014-15 financial year.
Two new tourism initiatives are being undertaken in the northeast; ‘Swadesh Darshan’ will aim to develop new themed tourism circuits in the region, including a coastal circuit, Buddhist circuit, Northeast India circuit, Himalayan circuit and Krishna circuit. And the ‘PRASAD’ (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive) programme will aim to promote spiritual tourism in 12 northeast cities.
To promote these, the Indian government will provide northeastern states with complimentary space at major international travel fairs and exhibitions, as well organising as their own fairs and festivals to promote the northeast.
India’s northeast region comprises eight states and territories: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura.
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