BODH GAYA – Tejashwi Yadav, Deputy Chief Minister cum Tourism Minister of Bihar, emphasized the need for the business class to capitalize on the state’s new tourism policy during discussions with tour operators and hoteliers at the Mahabodhi Convention Center in Bodh Gaya on Thursday.
Addressing the gathering, Yadav highlighted the significance of Bodh Gaya as a hub of salvation and knowledge, attracting visitors globally. He stressed the necessity to enhance facilities at tourist centers, and the Bihar government’s current focus is on improving tourism-related infrastructure.
The recently approved tourism policy encourages business ventures in the tourism sector by providing substantial grants, not only for hotel construction but also for establishing theme restaurants, parks, meditation centers, and golf courses. Yadav urged the business community to set up new industries in the tourism sector, asserting that the state’s progress is intertwined with the success of the business class.
“We are working to ensure that tourists stay in the state for longer periods. Our goal is to develop nightlife in various cities, making them centers of activity. This involves integrating markets, malls, hotels, and restaurants to attract more visitors to Bihar. The government is committed to cleanliness, efficient traffic systems, and creating a positive impression for tourists,” said Yadav.
During his visit to Tibet Dharamshala and Mahabodhi temple in Bodh Gaya, he received blessings from His Holiness the Buddhist leader Dalai Lama. Yadav participated in a site inspection program for connecting the park. He emphasized the development projects underway in Bodh Gaya, including the connection of the temple and JP Udyan with a bridge. The Deputy Chief Minister highlighted initiatives such as building two five-star hotels in Bodhgaya and three in Patna, aiming to boost tourism and improve the state’s economy.
Tourism Secretary Abhay Kumar Singh presented key points of the Tourism Fund policy, highlighting incentives for investors. The new policy offers incentives, including a capital fund of Rs 3 crore for projects up to Rs 10 crore, and up to Rs 25 crore for investments between Rs 50 crore to Rs 100 crore.
The program saw the presence of Agriculture Minister and local MLA Kumar Sarvjeet, Cooperation Minister, District Magistrate Gaya, Superintendent of Police Gaya, Municipal Commissioner Gaya, Tourism Director, General Manager of Bihar Tourism Development Corporation, and other officials from the Tourism Department and District Administration.
