Patna: Bihar Tourism Minister Kedar Prasad Gupta has urged the Centre to expedite consideration of the state’s proposals for the development of major pilgrimage and tourism destinations, including Gaya-Bodh Gaya and Nalanda-Rajgir.
Gupta made the request during a meeting with Union Tourism and Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, according to a Bihar Tourism Department statement issued on August 10. The state has submitted comprehensive destination strategies and development plans in accordance with the Union Budget 2024-25 announcement.
Rs 2,130 Crore Proposed For Two Tourism Regions
According to the department, Bihar has prepared a Rs 1,080 crore development plan for Gaya-Bodh Gaya and a Rs 1,050 crore plan for Nalanda-Rajgir.
The proposals include detailed infrastructure analysis and are intended to improve the tourism potential of the two regions. The state government has asked the Union Tourism Ministry to provide in-principle approval so that the proposed projects can move forward.
The department said the plans are aimed at coordinated development of the destinations while improving facilities for pilgrims and tourists.
Gaya-Bodh Gaya Plan Includes Heritage And Food Facilities
The Gaya-Bodh Gaya proposal includes projects such as a Heritage Haat at Bodh Gaya and an International Food Court.
The state government has also submitted a separate proposal for the development of Simaria Ghat in Begusarai district under the Centre’s PRASHAD scheme. The proposed project has an estimated cost of Rs 12.16 crore, according to the Tourism Department.
The proposal is currently awaiting approval.
State Seeks Early Decision From Tourism Ministry
During his meeting with Shekhawat, Gupta requested that the Centre consider the proposals at the earliest, the department said.
The state government wants the proposed projects in Gaya, Bodh Gaya, Nalanda and Rajgir to be implemented within a defined timeframe. It has also sought early in-principle approval from the Union Tourism Ministry.
The department said faster approval would allow the state to begin the proposed development work without unnecessary delay.
Focus On Pilgrimage And Heritage Tourism
Gaya and Bodh Gaya are important pilgrimage destinations, while Nalanda and Rajgir have significant historical and cultural tourism potential.
The Bihar government said planned infrastructure development at these locations would improve facilities for visitors and strengthen their positioning as national and international tourism destinations.
The department also said the projects could support tourism-led economic activity in the state by improving visitor facilities and infrastructure around major religious, historical and cultural sites.
