Tourism Department

Policy Note - 2003-2004

Demand No. 28

Introduction

Tourism is a field of human activity known to mankind from time immemorial. It cuts across
barriers of caste, colour, creed and builds universal brotherhood. The world's oldest industry is
also one of the largest and fastest growing industries today. It is basically a service-oriented
industry, which is capable of generating massive employment opportunities and huge foreign
exchange. Hence, for the development of Tourism in Tamil Nadu, the Department of Tourism and
Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) were formed. The Department of Tourism
concentrated on dissemination of information and implementation of schemes for the benefit of
tourists. The TTDC on the other hand was assigned the job of conducting package tours and
running of Hotels (Hotel Tamil Nadu). Over the years, the Tourism Industry in Tamil Nadu has
registered a good growth. During such period, there was enormous scope for us to interact not
only with the tourists from across the globe but also with the private travel agents, tour operators
and hotel owners. During the same period, the Department of Tourism have received valuable
feedback through its field offices. On analyzing the tourism scenario, we found that the
infrastructure facilities provided to the Tourists at Tourist Spots necessarily require upgradation to
that of international standards. The expectations of the tourists are also very high. The provision
of high standard infrastructure such as Construction of star category hotels, amusement / theme
parks etc. require massive investment. Hence, the Government is of the view that the tourism
industry need to be developed through private sector and the Government has to perform the
role of a "service facilitator" rather than "service provider". With this radical change in our policy,
we intend to build a long range public-private partnership on a sustainable basis.

The terrorist attack on World Trade Centre, New York in September 2001, Global economic
slowdown and climatic / ecological crisis severely hampered tourism activity at the global level
during the last two years. It also had some impact on tourist arrivals to India. However, the actual
effect on the tourist inflow to Tamil Nadu was very negligible. Now, the Tourism Industry is slowly
but steadily limping back to normalcy. France remained the most popular tourist destination in
the world in the year 2002 with an arrival of 76.7 million foreign tourists. There are about 700
million Tourists world wide, who spend approximately 460 billion US Dollars on tourist activities
every year. Tourism also accounts for 10% of the jobs world over. India gets only about 2.5.
million foreign tourists every year.

1) Tourism- a profile

In Tamil Nadu while 75% of the Tourists visit to enjoy their leisure, others combine with business,
education, auspicious occasions, political/ religious / social Conferences, pilgrimage etc. Keeping
the Tourism products in mind the Government are attempting to meet the requirements of all
types of tourists. The Tourists visiting Tamil Nadu are drawn from all walks of life and from
various countries across the globe, whose colour, religion, race, creed, language, expectations
and food habits vary greatly. With a view to ensure a well targeted and focused attention visiting
tourists are classified as follows:
Local Tourists (Tourists from within Tamil Nadu)

Tourists visiting Tamilnadu from other States

Foreign tourists

Such a classification has enabled the Tourism Department to plan the itinerary, food,
accommodation, transport etc to suit the specific needs of each category of tourists. It is also
expected that this exercise will ultimately result in attracting more tourists and induce them to stay
for a longer period in Tamil Nadu.

2) Tourism in India

The number of foreign tourists who visited India during the last five years is as follows:-

Year No. of Tourists

1997 23.74 lakhs

1998 23.58 lakhs

1999 24.81 lakhs

2000 26.41 lakhs

2001 25.37 lakhs

Tourism in India remains one of the largest foreign exchange earners, next only to gems,
jewellery and garments. During 2001, the foreign exchange earned by Tourism in our country
was estimated to be Rs.14,344/ Crores.

Ministry of Tourism, Government of India have estimated that every Rs.10.00 lakhs invested in
Tourism created 47.5 jobs. The same amount if invested in Agriculture & Manufacturing sector
can create only 44.7 and 12.6 jobs respectively. Today, the direct employment generated by
Tourism is estimated to be 164.5 lakhs. Indirect employment is much higher at 223.7 lakhs. A
sample survey by the World Tourism Council, which uses a methodology called " Tourism
Satellite Account " concludes that jobs generated by Tourism could rise from today's 2.4% to
6.8% in ten years which means 80 lakhs new jobs. Similarly, in respect of hotel industry, it is
estimated that an investment of Rs.10.00 lakhs will give direct employment to 12 persons and five
rooms in a five star hotel on an average gives direct employment to eight persons.

The national development council had approved the 10th five year (2002-2007) plan on 21-12-02,
which proposes to generate employment for 5 crore persons, Obviously, the Tourism Industry is
bound to play a very significant role in this massive task.

3) Tourism in Tamil Nadu

Tourists visit Tamil Nadu throughout the year out of their sheer desire. Nature has bestowed
Tamil Nadu with bountiful tourism products. To supplement these our ancestors too have given
us Temples, magnificent architectures etc that serve as great tourists attractions. Tamil Nadu is
a fascinating state, virtually invaded by tourists throughout the year. We all know that Tamil
Nadu is a place of Enduring Heritage and a higher state of mind where technology co-exists with
tradition and where ancient architecture/heritage, social values and contemporary vitality blend
extremely harmoniously. Tamil Nadu enjoys the third position in India in terms of tourist arrivals.

The tourist wealth of Tamil Nadu can be broadly classified under the following heads:-

1. a) Hill resorts
2. b) Beaches
3. c) Water falls
4. d) Dam sites
5. e) Zoological parks
6. f) Botanical/Horticulture Gardens
7. g) Wild life sanctuaries
8. h) Historical monuments/Heritage sites
9. i) Pilgrim Centres
10. j) Leisure tourism (Amusement parks/Theme parks)
11. k) Adventure tourism ( mountaineering and boating etc)
12. l) Fairs and festivals
13. m) Monuments

The following tourist products will be developed during 2003-2004:-

1. a) Health tourism
2. b) Educational centres of excellence, information technology, technical education
centres etc
3. c) Plantation tourism (To be promoted in Coffee/Tea estates)
4. d) Film industry and tourism (To be promoted through encouraging film shootings and
Video recording in Tamil Nadu).

The number of tourists who visited Tamil Nadu during the last five years is furnished below: -

Year Domestic Foreign Total

(Arrivals in lakhs) (Arrivals in (Rs. in lakhs)
lakhs)
1998 204.13 6.36 210.49
1999 211.37 7.22 218.59
2000 229.82 7.86 237.68
2001 238.12 7.73 245.85
2002 246.61 8.05 254.66
4.1 )The objectives of all our efforts :-

a) To increase the Tourist inflow to 10-12% per annum from the present 4 to 9%

b) To increase the period of stay of domestic tourists from 7-9 to 10-12 days and foreign tourists
from 4-7 to 6-8 days.

c) To evolve a Government led, private sector driven and community oriented framework.

d) To fully exploit tourism potentials for employment generation and poverty alleviation.

e) To Recognise the deep-rooted innate relationship between 'Tourism and Culture ' and promote
as such.

f) To promote Eco-Tourism

g) To tap the tourism potential in the coastal belt

h) To expand the product base to have more effective co-ordination with other States

i) To make extensive use of Technological advancements and information technology

j) To make tourism a Core competency sector

k) To take fruitful steps to attract ethnic tourists from the neighbouring countries like Sri Lanka,
Singapore, Malaysia, Mauritius Reunion Islands etc.

l) To eradicate the beggar/Touts menace at Tourist Spots in Tamil Nadu and to keep the
environs of all the tourist spots clean.

4.2) The strategies to be adopted to achieve the above objectives are as follows:-

1. Attempt would be to look at Tamil Nadu and various tourism products holistically and in
an integrated manner in the spirit of Co-operative federation.

•
1. To upgrade the infrastructural facilities

- Long term and

- Short term measures would be taken

•
1. For increasing the inbound tourists.

- Aggressive marketing would be adopted to publicise the tourist potential of Tamil Nadu
both Nationally and internationally

- Opening of Tourist Information Centres in other states

 - Appointment of Marketing agents throughout the country and also abroad

- Bringing out High Quality literature in all Indian and foreign languages

- Screening of documentaries in theatres, railway stations, airports, bus termini etc.

- World class infrastructure provision

- Launching of Mega-tourism projects

- Development of tourism circuits

- Large revenue generating projects like ropeway, Sound and light shows, cruises etc

- Tourism Capacity building

- For building an effective long term public-private partnership

Encourage the private entrepreneurs to take up Tourist Development projects.

Project proposals submitted by the private entrepreneurs to be cleared through ' Single window
clearance' system.

- Required Technical Assistance to be made available

•
1. Attention to be paid on Promotion of cultural tourism

Steps to be taken to attract more foreign tourists especially from ethnic countries and NRIs.

Expand the product range by introducing new festivals at more Tourist Centres, which will
highlight the salient features of Tamil Culture and heritage.

Beach Tourism

Tamil Nadu has a spectacular long coastline. Amusement Park to be set up with Private
participation.

1. Promotion of Eco-Tourism

Preservation of Eco-Tourism centres like hill stations, water falls, beaches, mangrove forests etc.

Exploit natural resources by maintaining complete harmony with nature and without endangering
the otherwise extremely fragile ecology.

Introduction of trekking, boating, water sports, hang gliding etc by refining and repackaging the
available products.

•
1. Inter-State Tourist packages co-ordination with other States to start Inter-State
Tourist Packages systematically Inter-regional circuits and products
MOUs signed with Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, India Tourism Development Corporation, Uttar
Pradesh, Uttaranchal, Rajasthan, Delhi and Orissa for developing suitable Inter-regional Circuits..

Tie-up arrangements with Tourism Departments of West Bengal, Kerala, Maharashtra, Andaman
and Nicobar Islands being finalised for development of Tourism.

•
1. Explore, Develop and participate in New Global markets for Tourism products

E-mail, web site, touch screen, Documentaries in film/Video format and CD Rom facilities
established by the Department

Computerisation of the various units under the control of Commissionerate of Tourism and Tamil
Nadu Tourism Development Corporation.

Online booking facilities for the tours and accommodation in Hotels run by TTDC to be made
possible shortly.

5.1) Government of India's New Policy for funding Tourism Development schemes in
States.

During the Seventh, Eighth, Ninth Five Year Plans, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India was
assisting the State Governments/UT Administrations to undertake large number of small and
isolated Tourism projects spread through out the length and breath of the country resulting in the
resources being spread very thinly. This could not create any major impact on the development
of tourism infrastructures in the country. In order to provide a quick and substantial impact to
tourism growth in the Tenth Five Year Plan, the Ministry of Tourism and Culture has proposed
new schemes for the development and promotion of tourism in the country out of this there are
several schemes pertaining to Tamil Nadu.

Integrated Development of Tourism Circuits

Under this scheme, Government of India has identified 25 Tourism circuits across the country,
which would be developed to International standards. Out of these 25 Tourism circuits, 2 are in
Tamil Nadu

1. a) Chennai-Mamallapuram-Pondicherry-Gingee- Thiruvannamalai- Kancheepuram-

Chennai.
b) Thekkady-Madurai-Rameswaram

The Government of India will prepare the master plans for these Tourism circuits and would fully
fund the schemes.

Product/Infrastructure and Destination Development

Under this scheme Integrated development of one selected tourist destination will be taken up
every year in each State. This scheme will be funded by Government of India on 90:10 basis
(Central: State). Major activities that would be undertaken under this scheme are Improvements
to surroundings of destination, Illumination, Sewage facilities, wayside facilities, refurbishment of
monuments, signages, Tourist Information centres etc.
The following proposals have been sent to Ministry of Tourism, Government of India during 2002-
2003 seeking financial assistance.

1. Integrated development of Mamallapuram - Rs. 1900 lakhs

2. Promotion of Village Tourism - Kazhugumalai - Rs.48.68 lakhs

3. Promotion of Eco-Tourism - Point Calimere - Rs.274.10 lakhs

4. Provision of sign boards in important tourist Centres -Rs.154.00 lakhs

5. Provision of flood lighting to Sri Brahadeeswarar Temple at Thanjavur - Rs.16.50 lakhs

Out of the above said five schemes, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India have accorded
sanction for the following schemes in 2002-2003:-

1. Integrated Development of Mamallapuram ( Ist Phase ) Rs. 499.85 lakhs

2. Promotion of Village Tourism - Kazhugumalai Rs.48.68 lakhs

3. Provision of flood lighting to Sri Brahadeeswarar Temple at Thanjavur Rs.16.50 lakhs

While inaugurating the various District Development projects at Kancheepuram on 8.2.2003, the
Hon'ble Chief Minister also launched the Integrated Development of Mamallapuram.

The following works were taken up under the First Phase:-

1. a) Development of Shore temple area.

b) Development of Five Ratha's area.

Under the II Phase, the following works will be taken up during 2003-2004 (i.e. after the
completion of first phase works). Development of Arjuna's Penance Area, Development of
Dolotsava Mandapam / Bothath Alwar Mandapam, Shifting of the High School, Primary School
and Balwadi from their present location and construction of new building for Higher Secondary
School, Primary School and Balwadi, Development of Tiger Cave Area, Development of lands
around Mukuntha Nayanar Temple, Development of lands belonging to TTDC and Labour
Department Construction of new Bus Stand.

The total cost of the Project is expected to be around Rs.19.00 crores, out of which state
Government's contribution towards alienation and acquisition of lands would be around Rs 2.43
crores.

Assistance for Large Revenue Generating Projects

Under this scheme, the Government of India will provide grant to act as a catalyst for large
revenue generating projects like Amusement park, Ropeway, Cruise terminals, Air park, Sound
and light show etc. through State Tourism Development Corporations. Detailed plans are being
prepared for the above schemes.

5.2) Completed Schemes

Up to 2001 - 2002 financial assistance was being provided for the schemes recommended by the
State Government and prioritised by Government of India. The State Government also provided
matching grant for the schemes sanctioned by Government of India. The details of schemes
sanctioned up to 2001 - 2002 and completed in 2002 - 2003 are given below :-

(Rs. in lakhs)

Name of the Scheme GOI State Other Total

share Share Sources Project
cost
1.Walkway/Pavement 25.00 25.00 -- 50.00
along the Beach near
Gandhi Mandapam &
Swimming Pool in
Kanniyakumari
2.High Mast light at 11.35 -- 2.90 14.25
Tiruchirappalli
3. Construction of 20.00 5.00 -- 25.00
Wayside facilities at
Vattakottai
4.Construction of View 30.00 5.00 -- 35.00
Tower at
Kanniyakumari
5.Improvement of 15.00 7.50 -- 22.50
environs around
Arulmigu Meenakshi
Amman Temple,
Madurai ( Phase - I)
6. Refurbishment of 10.00 5.00 -- 15.00
Rani Mangammal
Choultry at Madurai
7. Upgradation of 60.00 60.00 -- 120.00
existing tourist facilities
at Mamallapuram,
Kodaikanal and
Kanniyakumari

DETAILS OF GOVERNMENT OF INDIA ASSISTED SCHEMES WHICH ARE LIKELY TO BE

COMPLETED DURING 2003-2004

(Rs. in lakhs)

Name of the Scheme GOI State Other Total

share Share Sources Project
cost
1. Public convenience 12.00 4.00 0 16.00
at Hogenakkal
2. Public convenience 12.00 4.00 0 16.00
at Nagore
3. Public convenience 12.00 0 4.00 16.00
at Velankanni
4. Improvement of 13.40 0 6.60 20.00
environs at
Hogenakkal
5.Refurbishment of 15.00 7.50 0 22.50
Thanjavur Palace
6.Improvement of 15.00 0 7.50 22.50
environs around Big
Temple, Thanjavur
7.Construction of 20.00 5.00 0 25.00
additional rooms in the
Wayside facilities at
Thiruthani
8. Integrated 26.60 13.40 0 40.00
development of Vellore
Fort
9. Improvement of 15.00 6.65 0 21.65
environs around
Srirangam &
Thiruvanai -
kavalTemples in
Tiruchirappalli District
10.Development of 4.00 0 0 4.00
Nature Trails at
Yercaud (Salem Dist.)
and Elagiri (Vellore
Dist.)
11. Improvement of 15.00 7.50 0 22.50
environs around
Arulmighu
Ekambareswarar
Temple,
Kancheepuram
12. Construction of 24.60 6.15 0 30.75
Tourist Complex at
Kancheepuram
13.Improvement of 9.00 0 3.00 12.00
environs around
Arulmighu Meenakshi
Amman Temple (Phase
II)
14.Improvement of the 15.00 7.50 5.33 27.83
environs around Five
Rathas and Shore
Temple, Mamallapuram
15. Improvement of 28.50 28.50 0 57.00
infrastructure at
Rameswaram
16. Introduction of 18.90 0 0 18.90
Glass Bottom Boats in
Kurusadai Island near
Mandapam
17. Public convenience 12.00 4.35 0 16.35
at Kanniyakumari
18. Public convenience 12.00 0 4.00 16.00
near Arulmighu
Varadaraja Perumal
Temple,
Kancheepuram
19. Provision of 15.00 0 15.00 30.00
Drinking water facilities
at Kanniyakumari
20. Parking lot at 20.00 0 10.00 30.00
Kodaikanal
21. Parking lot at 20.00 0 5.00 25.00
Thiruthani
22 Development of 16.00 0 4.00 20.00
parking lot at
Thirumalai Naicker
Mahal at Madurai
23. Promotion of Eco- 50.00 0 5.55 55.55
Tourism at Pitchavaram
24. Forest Lodge at 25.00 4.45 5.00 34.45
Kodiakkarai
25. High Mast Light at 20.00 0 1.50 21.50
Thanjavur
26. Yatri Niwas and 38.10 0 14.00 52.10
Parking lot at Madurai
27. Landscaping, 9.00 0 9.00 18.00
Walkway and Lighting
at Nagapattinam
Beach
28. Promotion of 10.00 0 10.00 20.00
Village Tourism at
Suthamalli in Tirunelveli
District
29. Development of 17.50 17.50 0 35.00
Puliancholai
in Tiruchirappalli
District as Picnic Spot.
30. Improvement of 20.00 0 0 20.00
Boat Jetty and
Purchase of Boats for
Muttukadu Boat House
(Special Tourism Area)
31. Computerisation of 50.00 0 0 50.00
Tourism Dept. & TTDC
 and Providing
Widearea Network
(WAN) connectivity
Total 590.60 116.50 109.48 816.58

5.3) DETAILS OF GOVERNMENT OF INDIA ASSISTED SCHEMES WHICH WILL BE TAKEN

UP FOR IMPLEMENTATION DURING 2003-2004 (Rs. in lakhs)

Name of the Scheme GOI State Other Total

share Share Sources Project
cost
1. Construction of Yatri 39.10 5.00 -- 44.10
Niwas at
Thiruvannamalai
2. Provision of Public 16.00 - 8.00 24.00
convenience at
Thiruchendur
3. Public convenience 12.00 4.00 - 16.00
at Thiruverkadu–
Thiruvallur Dist.
4. Development of 50.00 - 50.00 100.00
parking lot at
Kanniyakumari
5. Provision of Parking 12.00 - 12.00 24.00
Lot at Mamallapuram
6. Refurbishment of 15.00 7.50 - 22.50
Vellore Fort
7. Modernisation of 54.65 41.53 00 96.18
Sound and Light Show
at Thirumalai Naicker
Mahal, Madurai
8. Landscaping, 15.00 - 23.53 38.53
Walkway and Lighting
at Elliots Beach,
Chennai
9. Construction of Yatri 30.00 - 10.00 40.00
Niwas at Elagiri (Vellore
District)
10. Development of 7.50 - 7.50 15.00
Ghats and Lake at
Yercaud
11. Improvement of 13.33 6.66 - 19.99
infrastructure at
Mamallapuram
12. Production of CD- 1.60 - - 1.60
ROM
13. Provision of Touch 23.50 - - 23.50
Screen
14. Development of 11.25 11.25 - 22.50
 Monuments -Arjuna
Penance,
Mamallapuram
15. Development of 5.00 5.00 - 10.00
Picnic Spot at Veedur
Dam, Villupuram District
16. Construction of 45.00 15.00 - 60.00
Tourism Reception
Centre, Kanniyakumari
17. High Mast Light at 7.00 3.00 - 10.00
Thiruthani
18. High Mast Light at 7.00 3.00 - 10.00
Thirukazhukundram
19. High Mast Light at 7.00 3.00 - 10.00
Thiruvannamalai
20. Improvement of 37.50 37.50 - 75.00
infrastructure at Gingee
21. Development of 40.00 10.00 37.00 87.00
Pilgrim Centre -
Arulmighu
Kailasanathar Temple
at Kancheepuram,
Total 449.43 152.44 148.03 749.90

5.4 ) Hill Area Development Programme

For the promotion of tourism and related activities in Nilgiris District, various schemes are being
implemented under Hill Area Development Programme. A sum of Rs.50.00 lakhs was sanctioned
under Hill Area Development Programme during the year 2002-2003 for the following schemes,
which are under progress.

1. Erection of Signages and Hoardings on Eco- 1. Rs. 5.00

1. 1.
awareness lakhs

1. Improvement of Dolphins nose road from Bed 1. Rs. 35.00

1. 2.
Ford Circle, Coonoor lakhs

1. Production of CD-ROM on the Flora and Fauna 1. Rs.10.00

1. 3.
of the Nilgiris lakhs

Total Rs.50.00 lakhs

During 2003 - 2004, it is proposed to take up the following tourism developmental activities in
Nilgiris District under Hill Area Development Programme
 a. Development of Eco- Tourism Rs. 46.25 lakhs
b. Setting up of Aquarium Rs.19.00 lakhs
c. Improvement of Boat House at Ooty Lake Rs. 10.00 lakhs
Total Rs. 75.25 lakhs

5. 5) Mega Tourism Projects (Proposed)

Integrated Development of Kanniyakumari

After Mamallapuram, it is proposed to take up Integrated Development of Kanniyakumari during

2003-2004. The cost of the project will be shared by Government of India and
Government of Tamil Nadu. It is expected that the Government of India will extend financial
assistance upto Rs.6.00 Crores for this project.

Jain Theertha Shetra Tourism Circuit

Some of the important JAIN Theerthas in Tamil Nadu are

Place District
Thiruparutti Kundrum Kancheepuram
Thirumalai Thiruvannamalai
Thirunather Kundram Villupuram
Melchithamur Villupuram
Muthupatti Madurai
Mettupatti Madurai
Vijayamangalam Erode
Kazhugumalai Thoothukudi
Chiteral Kanniyakumari
Vallimalai Vellore

It is proposed to provide required infrastructure facilities and basic amenities at these destinations
with the assistance from Government of India . A Master Plan for this circuit would be prepared
during 2003-2004 and sent to Government of India for approval.

6.1) Allocation of additional funds by State Government.

This Government has been taking very special interest for Promotion of Tourism, for Tourism has
assumed a larger dimension with wider dynamic approaches for economic development. The Hon'ble
Chief Minister has played a profound role in changing the face of Tourism Sector in Tamil Nadu. The
Hon'ble Chief Minister reviewed the activities of Tourism Department immediately after assuming office
on 13-7-2001, when she outlined the broad objectives and strategies of Tourism Department. The ideas
put forward by the Hon'ble Chief Minister called for pumping in of massive funds for provision of
infrastructure and publicity. Hence, the government is providing unprecedented budget allocations to
Tourism Department.

Infrastructure facilities at Tourist Spots

Tourism Department is providing infrastructural facilities at Tourist spots in Tamil Nadu in association
with other departments. It is worth mentioning here that during the last two years the Tourism
department alone spent Rs. 5.00 crores for provision of infrastructural facilities at Tourists spots in 15
Districts. During 2003 - 2004 it is proposed to provide infrastructural facilities at Yercaud,
Parvathamalai, Sothuparai, Kumbakarai water falls, Suruli falls, Elagiri, Kolli Hills and Pachamalai .
Under this Scheme Drinking water, Public convenience, Rest shed, Lights, Restaurants, Pathway ,
parking lot etc. would be provided.

Development of Gangaikondachozhapuram

One of the important schemes that will be taken up during 2003-2004 is development of
Gangaikondachozhapuram in Perambalur District. It is famous for its Peruvudayar, which resembles the
big temple at Thanjavur in certain aspects. This temple was built between 1023 and 1029 A.D.
Hence, taking into account the importance of the place, projects for Rs. 163 lakhs have been prepared
and the works have been taken up.

6.2) Kanniyakumari

Realising the importance of Tourism development at Kanniyakumari the following schemes where
completed during 2001-2003 at Kanniyakumari:-
S.No. Name of the Work Name of the Estimate
Scheme Amount
( in lakhs )
1. Development of Sunset Member of 20.00
point with Walk Parliament Local
Ways,Kudils, Benches and Area Development
Lighting facilities Programme
2. Providing compound wall in Small Savings 5.00
the beach and maintenance Incentive
of the existing parapet wall
3. Construction of Fountain Self-Sufficiency 5.00
and beautification of park Scheme
opposite to
Gandhimandapam in
Kanniyakumari
4. Construction of Ornamental Self-Sufficiency 5.00
entrance in Kanniyakumari Scheme
5. Construction of Galleries Member of 12.00
for sight seeing along Legislative
seashore between Assembly
Kamarajar Manimandapam Constituency
and View Tower Scheme
6. Construction of wayside Tourism 25.00
facilities at Vattakottai Department
including Children's Park
providing ornamental plants,
 furniture to restaurant,
snackbar, waiting hall and
lobby and kitchen
arrangements.
7. Construction of View Tower Tourism Department 36.76
and installation of telescope
facility
8. Construction of public Tourism Department 16.35
convenience in
Kanniyakumari
9. Providing walkway from Tourism Department 50.00
Gandhimandapam to Beach
Road in Kanniyakumari
10. Providing two coats of Anti- Small Savings 3.25
Corrosion paint to concrete Incentive
surface of the view tower in
Kanniyakumari
11. Construction of a stone Small Savings 1.67
Mandapam and Entrance Incentive
Gate with name board in
Government museum at
Kanniyakumari

Sankuthurai Beach

S.No. Name of the Work Name of the Scheme Estimate Amount

( in lakhs )
12. Beautification of Jawahar Gram 1.40
Sankuthurai Beach, Samridhi Yojana
waiting sheds and
benches
13. Children's Park and Jawahar Gram 0.60
providing lighting Samridhi Yojana
facilities at Sankuthurai
Beach
14. Provision of ornamental Employment 0.88
items of works and Assurance Scheme
sulphate protective work
15. Widening of road for Jawahar Gram 0.77
Car Parking Samridhi Yojana

Chothavilai Beach

S.No. Name of the Work Name of the Scheme Estimate

Amount
 ( in lakhs )
16. Beautification of Member of Parliament 5.00
Chothavilai Beach and Local Area
construction of View Development
Tower, Kudil and Programme
benches in the Sea
Shore
17. Provision of Children's Small Savings 1.50
Park in Chothavilai Incentive
Beach
18. Improvements of Small Savings 1.50
Chothavilai Beach Incentive
(View Tower, Children's
Playmaterial etc.
Provision of dust bin)

Muttom Beach

S.No. Name of the Work Name of the Scheme Estimate

Amount
(in lakhs)
19. Construction of small Swarna Jayanthi Gram 1.60
shops at Muttom SwarojgarYogana -
Beach Infrastructure
20. Construction of two Jawahar Gram 1.60
shops, levelling and Samridhi Yogana
cleaning the beach
sand in Sankuthurai
21. Protective fencing State Finance 5.00
work and provision of Commission Grant
steps on the slippery
rock
22. Providing Solar Light Member Of Legislative 1.60
at Muttom Assembly Constituency
Scheme
23. Formation of Pallam - Pradhan Mantri Gram 45.83
Manakudy Beach Pad Sadak Yogana
24. Improvements to Pradhan Mantri Gram 9.90
Kovalam Anthoniyar Sadak Yogana
Church to Velankanni
Matha Beach Road
Km 0/0 to 1/0
25. Improvements to Pradhan Mantri Gram 7.35
Enyam Puthemthurai Sadak Yogana
Pozhikarai Beach
Road Km 0/8 to 1/6
26. Construction of Kudils Small Savings 2.70
and Benches at Incentive
 Muttom Beach

Mathoor Thottipalam

S.No. Name of the Work Name of the Scheme Estimate

Amount
( in lakhs )
27. Construction of Jawahar Yogana 2.60
Children's Park near Samaridhi Yogana
Mathoor Thottipalam
28. Construction of steps to Employment 2.00
Mathoor Thottipalam Assurance Scheme
from the ground
29. Construction of Bathing Employment 0.35
ghat at Mathoor Assurance Scheme
Thottipalam
30. Improvements and Member of Legislative 4.00
renovation of Mathoor Assembly
Thottipalam Constituency Scheme
31. Construction of Foot- Member of Legislative 6.50
Bridge at Thiruparappu Assembly
Constituency Scheme
32. Formation of swimming Small Savings 4.50
pool at Thriuparappu Incentive
Falls

Thuckalay ( Udayagiri Fort )

S.No. Name of the Work Name of the Estimate

Scheme Amount
( in lakhs )
1. Improvements to Small Savings 5.85
Udhayagiri Fort and
Deer Park
Total 294.76

6.3) Rameswaram

Following Tourist Developmental works have already been completed at Rameswaram.

1. B.T. Road from TTDC Link road to Olaikuda (Via.) DSP Plant Rs. 5.00 lakhs
2. Beach park in front of Government Guest House at Rameswaram Rs.21.00 lakhs
3. Tree Planting on both sides of NH 49 road from Pamban to Rameswaram Rs. 5.00 lakhs
 4. BT Road at Rameswaram Abaya Anjaneyar Temple(Via.) Sudukattanpatti Rs. 8.80 lakhs
5. Toilet at Sangumal at Rameswaram Rs. 1.10 lakhs
6. BT road from Rameswaram to Mandaikadu Rs. 3.00 lakhs
7. BT road from Rameswaram to Jadayu Theertham Rs.13.10 lakhs
8. Tourist Home at Rameswaram Rs.35.00 lakhs
Total Rs.92.00 lakhs

7) Rationalisation of Luxury Tax

The tourists and hoteliers felt that the rate of luxury tax is very high (25%) in Tamil Nadu, when
compared to other States. Representations were also received from several quarters seeking reduction
of luxury tax. The Hon'ble Chief Minister considered the representations. In view of the personal
interest taken by the Hon'ble Chief Minister, the Government of Tamil Nadu in December 2002 have
issued orders slashing the luxury tax in Tamil Nadu as follows:-

Rate of Tax

Where the rate of charges for accommodation or Five per

a) residence is not less than rupees two hundred but centum of such
less than rupees five hundred per room per day. rate
Where such rate is not less than rupees five
Ten per centum of
b) hundred but less than rupees one thousand per
such rate
room per day
Twelve and half
Where such rate is rupees one thousand or more
c) per centum of
per room per day
such rate

These bold measures introduced by the Government have been welcomed by the tourists, hoteliers and
all other stake holders alike and are bound to give a big push to tourism industry in the state.

8) Schemes to be implemented through private investment (Under Joint venture, Equity

participation, Lease, BOT, BOLT etc).

Tamil Nadu is today an investor's paradise, as it boasts of certain factors, which make the climate in
Tamil Nadu conducive for large scale private investments in all sectors.

Ethnic Village / Garden of Peace / Star Hotels :

It has been already decided to set up Ethnic Village/ Garden of Peace near Mamallapuram and
Construct Three Star Hotels at Palani, Thiruvannamalai, Nagore and Velankanni. Steps are being taken
to set up Ethnic Village at Mamallapuram and Garden of Peace at Muttukadu with private participation.
For construction of hotels, an advertisement calling for "Expression of interest" from private investors
has been published. These works would be expedited during 2003-2004.

Airpark, Chennai
Tourism department has already introduced water sports, trekking etc. Now, it is proposed to set up
an airpark near Chennai, with facilities for Hang Gliding, Para Gliding, Para Sailing, Flight Simulator,
Ballooning, Kite flying etc.

Sea Sports Park, Mamallapuram

It is proposed to enhance the tourist facilities available at Mamallapuram. One such measure under
consideration is to set up a sea sports park at the Beach Resort Complex of TTDC at Mamallapuram.
Sea sports like wind surfing, water scooters, angling etc would be available at the sea-sports park.

Spa Resort, Kanniyakumari

With increase in health awareness, the value of alternative therapy has increased. As a result spas,
alternative healing centres and therapists are now in great demand. Alternative therapy is the integrated
approach with emphasis on the 5 elements which restore harmony of the body, mind, emotion and soul.
The proposed spa resort at Kanniyakumari will have all the above facilities.

Ropeways

Ropeways are being used across the world successfully to transport men and materials over
inhospitable terrain, valleys and in between mountain ranges. This is widely used at tourist spots, as a
trip on the ropeway enables the tourists to get a birds-eye view of the picturesque scenic beauty several
hundred metres below. In Tamil Nadu, Kanniyakumari, Udhagamandalam, Kodaikanal and Yercaud are
ideal locations for setting up of ropeway. Necessary steps have already been taken for this project.

Sound and Light Shows

A Sound and Light Show is being conducted by this Department at Thirumalai Naicker Palace, Madurai
from 1981, In view of its long operation, its original quality has been affected. Hence, it is being
modernised with Government of India/ Government of Tamil Nadu financial assistance of Rs.96.18
Lakhs and with technical assistance of ITDC. Similarly, it is proposed to set up sound and light show at
Mamallapuram, Thanjavur, Kancheepuram and Kanniyakumari. ITDC, which possesses the technical
know-how in this field has come forward to collaborate with Tourism Department in implementing this
project.

Entertainment facilities

There are several factors which influence the length of stay of the tourists in Tamil Nadu. But, we
consider that Entertainment facilities do play a major role in inducing the tourists to stay back, may be
for a over night stay at selected Tourist spots in Tamil Nadu. The Entertainment facilities normally, the
tourists expect at a Tourist spot are Amusement parks, Theme parks, Golf club, Horse racing, Casinos,
parks, Cinemas, Air/Sea adventure sports, Trekking, Mountaineering etc. It is seen that Chennai has
fairly adequate entertainment facilities to engage the tourists especially on week ends. But such
facilities are grossly inadequate in other parts of Tamil Nadu, which are frequented by Tourists in large
numbers throughout the year. Hence, Tourism Department will take steps initially to set up Amusement
/ Theme parks in the District Capitals. To begin with major tourist centres like Kancheepuram,
Kanniyakumari, Thanjavur, Rameswaram and Madurai, where there is considerable movement of
Tourists will be covered. Government will offer necessary guidance to private investors in setting up
the amusement parks. It would be ensured that the Amusement / Theme parks are built to
International standards and that they do not harm the ecology of the region.
9) Perspective Plan

The Government of India is currently preparing the 20 years perspective Tourism Development Plan for
Tamil Nadu. The draft plan was perused by Tourism Department and remarks have been offered to
Government of India. It is expected that the perspective plan will be finalised by Government of India
shortly.

10) Tourism Promotion and Marketing

To attract more tourists and to extend their stay in Tamil Nadu, there has been a paradigm shift in our
promotion and marketing approach under which we will be taking the marketing and promotion activities
right up to the places where the prospective tourists reside/study/work. Our marketing efforts will
therefore be aimed at forcing the tourists to visit Tamil Nadu.

Advertisement in Print Media

Advertisements highlighting the tourism potentials are being released in newspapers and periodicals.
The advertisements are inserted not only in the newspapers and magazines being published in the
country but also in the magazines, published abroad and in in-flight magazines.

Advertisement through Electronic Media

Advertisements on Tamil Nadu Tourism are being inserted in Terrestrial and Satellite Televisions,
websites, moving electronic display boards etc. Recently, a CD Rom on Tamil Nadu Tourism was
released. Steps are being taken to prepare a new CD Rom incorporating some more details. A Touch
Screen Kiosk has been installed in the advance reservation centre of TTDC at the Tourism Complex in
Chennai for the benefit of the tourists.

Hoardings

Hoardings are being erected along the National highways and near the places where more number of
tourists pass through.