Bodh Gaya: Delhi MP Manoj Tiwari said around Rs 25,000 crore is being invested by the Centre across Bihar to promote tourism and develop major tourist destinations in the state.
Tiwari was speaking during a visit to Bodh Gaya as part of a delegation of the Parliamentary Standing Committee dealing with transport, tourism and culture.
He said the delegation was visiting Bihar to assess tourism-related development and explore ways to help the state emerge as one of India’s leading tourism destinations.
“The objective is to ensure comprehensive development of major tourist destinations in Bihar and strengthen the state’s tourism infrastructure,” Tiwari said.
He added that the Centre’s investment would be coordinated with funds from the Bihar government to implement tourism development projects.
Bodh Gaya guides seek overseas centres
Representatives of the Bodh Gaya Guide Association also raised their concerns and demands before the committee during the meeting.
The association sought the establishment of guide centres in foreign countries to facilitate better coordination with international tourists and encourage more visitors to India, particularly Bodh Gaya.
The representatives also demanded a dedicated guide office at the local level in Bodh Gaya to improve coordination and support for tourists.
However, association representatives said they were given limited time to present their concerns during the meeting.
Gaya administration welcomes parliamentary committee
Gaya District Magistrate Shashank Shubham and Additional District Magistrate Paritosh Kumar, who is also the in-charge secretary of the Bodh Gaya Temple Management Committee (BTMC), welcomed members and officials of the Parliamentary Standing Committee.
The delegation members were presented with bouquets and symbolic mementoes associated with Lord Buddha and Lord Vishnu.
After the meeting, the committee members left for Rajgir and Nalanda by road amid tight security arrangements.
The visit is part of the committee’s broader assessment of Bihar’s tourism potential and infrastructure, with Bodh Gaya, Rajgir and Nalanda among the state’s key destinations.
