Tourism Demand No. 29 Policy Note- 2006-2007

TOURISM DEMAND NO. 29 POLICY NOTE- 2006-2007

INTRODUCTION

Tourism promotes national integration and international understanding. It encourages preservation of monuments, heritage properties and eco-sanctuaries, helps survival of traditional art forms, crafts and culture. It has achieved rapid strides due to its capacity to earn foreign exchange, generate employment opportunities and inculcate a sense of love and fraternity in the minds of people.

Today, Tourism is not just seen as an activity of visiting tourist spots, clicking a few photographs and preserving them for posterity. Instead, it is expected to play a larger role in the development of mankind. The stated objective of the nation is to distribute the benefits of Tourism more widely, contribute to poverty reduction, sustainable development and gender equity and minimise adverse social impacts.

2) TOURISM IN WORLD

To woo the tourists, nations are prepared to spend any amount of money. An artificial beach has been created in Tokyo in 7000 sq.mt. area, for which 1000 Tonnes of white sand were brought from China. According to World Tourism Organisation, by 2020, China will become the world's biggest tourist destination.

3) TOURISM IN INDIA Indian Tourism has been declared, the fastest growing at about 8.8% annually by leading tourism organizations including the World Tourism organization. Tourism is the third highest foreign exchange earner for India. During 2004-2005, more than Rs.21,000 crores were earned through tourist arrivals. During 2005-2006, 10.2 lakh foreign tourists had visited India and 163.40 crore American dollars were earned as foreign exchange.

In India, the amount spent by Tourists in 2005 has registered 23% increase over the figures of 2004. In India, Tourism accounts for 3-4% of the gross domestic product. One of the main factors, which is responsible for growth of Tourism in India is the phenomenal rise in air services.

According to a survey made by "Conde Nast Traveller", a leading travel magazine, India ranks fifth among the world's 10 top tourist destinations.

A sum of Rs.830 crores has been allocated to Tourism sector in the union budget for the year 2006-2007. Out of this, tourist infrastructure will get a major share (i.e.) Rs.422.50 crores.

India can now boast of operating the world's highest cable car with inauguration of the second phase of cable car project, which will take skiers to a height of 4390 mtrs. from Gulmarg to Affarwat peak in Kashmir. The States in India are vying with each other in promoting tourism.

4) TOURISM IN TAMIL NADU

Tamil Nadu, the gateway of South India has emerged as the hub for West Asia and South East Asia. UNESCO has declared 788 places in the world as heritage sites of which 611 are of cultural importance, 154 Natural and 23 a mixture of both. Out of 788 world heritage sites, 26 are in India, of which Tamil Nadu has been bestowed with 5 world heritage sites (i.e.) Rock cut monuments-Mamallapuram, Brihadisvara Temple -Thanjavur, Iravadisvara Temple- Darasuram, Brihadisvara Temple- Gangaikondacholapuram and Nilgiris Mountain Railway.

5) TOURIST WEALTH OF TAMIL NADU a) Natural Tourism Wealth Nature has bestowed Tamil Nadu with countless number of Tourist spots. Notable picturesque hill resorts are Udhagamandalam, Kodaikanal and Yercaud. Beaches constitute one more natural attraction for tourists. India

has 7516.6 kms. long coastline, of which Tamil Nadu has 1076 Kms of coastline with innumerable beach resorts. The marina beach in Chennai is the second longest beach. The beach at Kanniyakumari is a big attraction for tourists as one can watch both dawn and dusk. Moreover, the tourists can enjoy a very rare sight (i.e.) confluence of three seas - Arabian sea, Indian Ocean and Bay of Bengal. Thoothukudi beach is famous for chunk and pearl beds.

The Gulf of Mannar is famous for coral reefs. The ozone content at Tranquebar beach ranks second highest in the world. (The first being an area in Switzerland). Waterfalls like Courtallam, Hogenakkal offer enthralling experience for the tourists. The mangroves at Pichavaram in Cuddalore District are one of the largest in the world. The lake at Pulicat in Thiruvallur District is the second largest saltwater lagoon in India. b) Natural and man made Tourist Wealth of Tamil Nadu:

Places falling under this category are nature based that have been transformed into tourist spots. Wildlife sanctuaries (like Mudu- malai, Anamalai, Mundanthurai, Kalakkadu), Bird Sanctuaries (like Vedanthangal - Kancheepuram District, Pulicat - Thiruvallur

District, Koonthankulam - Tirunelveli District, Karaivetti - Perambalur District, Kodiakkarai - Point Calimere, Nagapattinam District), Zoological Parks (Like the Aringnar Anna Zoological park at Vandalur, Chennai), Botanical and Horticultural Gardens (at Udhagamandalam and Coonoor), etc. are some of the tourist spots which have both human and natural elements.

c) Man made Tourist Wealth:

Pilgrim Centres, Historical and Heritage monuments constitute the tourist wealth under this category. Temples are the core strength of Tamil Nadu Tourism and they attract both pilgrims and tourists. There are about 35,000 temples. Out of one lakh stone inscriptions in India, 65,000 stone inscriptions are in Tamil Nadu. Santhome Basilica, St. Mary's Church at Fort St. George, (First Anglican church in India), Church at St. Thomas Mount, St. George's cathedral, Armenian Church in Chennai, Shrine of our Lady of Refuge, Elakurichi in Perambalur District, Velankanni and Poondi Madha Churches in Thanjavur District, Holy Cross Church in Manappad in Thoothukudi District are some of the world renowned churches. Nagore Dargha in Nagapattinam District, Thousand Lights Mosque in Chennai, Dargha at Erwadi in Ramanathapuram District are some of the important Islamic pilgrim centres. Historical Buddhist and Jain shrines are also found here.

There are 241 monuments in Tamil Nadu under the control of Archaeological Survey of India and 88 monuments are under the control of State Archaeological Department. To ensure better preservation and conservation of heritage towns, the Government of Tamil Nadu had declared the following 38 places as Heritage Towns:-

Sl. Heritage Town District No. 1. Kancheepuram 2. Mamallapuram Kancheepuram 3. Sriperumpudur 4. Chidambaram 5. Pichavaram Cuddalore 6. Marudhur 7. Kurinjipadi 8. Marakkanam 9. Rameswaram Ramanathapuram 10. Srirangam Tiruchirappalli 11. Srivilliputhur Virudhunagar 12. Thanjavur Thanjavur 13. Kumbakonam 14. Gangaikonda Perambalur Cholapuram 15. Madurai Madurai 16. Palani Dindigul 17. Tiruchendur Thoothukudi 18. Thiruthani Thiruvallur

19. Kanniyakumari 20. Padmanabha- Kanniyakumari puram 21. Colachal 22. Tiruvannamalai Tiruvannamalai 23. Gingee Villupuram 24. Chettinad Sivaganga 25. Karaikudi 26. Vaalinokkam Ramanathapuram 27. Tranquebar 28. Poompuhar 29. Nagore Nagapattinam 30. Velankanni 31. Courtallam Tirunelveli 32. Tirunelveli 33. Tiruchengode Namakkal 34. Perur Coimbatore 35 Bhavani Erode 36. Sittannavasal Pudukottai 37. Avudayarkoil 38. Thirumayam

Funds for the development of the above said centres are provided by the Town and Country Planning Department and Tourism Department.

6) TOURIST ARRIVALS TO TAMIL NADU Aggressive promotion and marketing campaigns through print and electronic media at the domestic, national and international levels and creation/upgradation of basic amenities/Infrastructure facilities at Tourist/ Pilgrim spots have resulted in increase of tourist arrivals to Tamil Nadu as follows: -

Year Domes- Foreign Total Foreign tic (in (in (in Exchange lakhs) lakhs) lakhs) earnings (Rs. in crores) 2000 229.82 7.86 237.68 1788 2001 238.12 7.73 245.85 1750 2002 246.61 8.05 254.66 1809 2003 270.59 9.02 279.61 1913 2004 300.77 10.58 311.35 2283 2005 323.39 11.79 335.18 2556

During the year 2001 Tamil Nadu occupied the third rank in both domestic and foreign tourist arrivals to India. According to a survey conducted in the year 2005, Tamil Nadu has moved on to the second position in attracting foreign tourists. In the case of domestic tourists, Tamil Nadu continues to occupy the third position. Efforts are being taken to reach the first position in the arrival of tourists, both foreign and domestic.

7) COMMISSIONERATE OF TOURISM AND THE OFFICES UNDER ITS CONTROL

The Commissionerate of Tourism is headed by Commissioner of Tourism, with other posts like one Joint Director, two Deputy Directors, three Assistant Directors, One Publication Officer, One Accounts Officer and 206 Ministerial staff members. The field offices comprise of 20 Tourist Offices (14 within Tamil Nadu and 6 outside Tamil Nadu) and 27 Tourist Information Centres (19 within Tamil Nadu and 8 outside Tamil Nadu) whose main functions are rendering assistance to tourists in respect of their stay, food, sight seeing, shopping, worship, amusement, etc; publicising the tourist potential of Tamil Nadu; and co-ordinate with District Collectors / Public Works Department/Local bodies, etc. in implementation of Tourism projects.

Tourist Offices Tourist Offices of Tourism Department are functioning at the following places:-

Within Tamil Nadu: 1. Chennai 2. Kanniyakumari

3. Udhagamandalam 4. Kodaikanal 5. Mamallapuram 6. Madurai 7. Rameswaram 8. Thanjavur 9. Tiruchirappalli 10. Tirunelveli 11. Salem 12. Dharmapuri 13. Chidambaram 14. Poompuhar

(b) Outside Tamil Nadu: 15.New Delhi 16.Mumbai 17.Kolkatta 18.Panaji (Goa) 19.Jaipur 20.Agra

Tourist Information Centres Tourist Information Centres of Tourism Department are functioning at the following places:

(a) WITHIN TAMIL NADU Airports 1. Chennai (International terminal) 2. Chennai (Domestic terminal)

3. Madurai 4. Coimbatore 5. Tiruchirappalli

Railway Stations. 6. Chennai (Central) 7. Chennai (Egmore) 8. Madurai 9. Coimbatore 10. Rameswaram 11. Tiruchirappalli 12. Tirunelveli

Bus Stand 13. Chennai Metropolitan Bus Terminus, Koyambedu 14. Rameswaram

Other places 15. Gudalur (The Nilgiris District) 16. Tranquebar (Nagapattinam District) 17. Hotel Tamilnadu Complex, Thanjavur (Thanjavur District) 18. Panchalankurichi (Thoothukudi District) 19. Vellore Fort (Vellore District)

(b) OUTSIDE TAMIL NADU: Place State 20 Railway Junction, Bangalore Karnataka 21. Hyderabad Andhra Pradesh 22.Thiruvanantha- puram Kerala 23.Ahmedabad Gujarat 24.Bhubaneshwar Orissa 25.Chandigarh Punjab 26.Guwahati Assam 27.Varanasi Uttar Pradesh

8) JURISDICTION OF TOURIST OFFICERS

The Tourist Officers in-charge of 14 Tourist Offices in Tamil Nadu are promoting Tourism in more than one District as detailed below:- Sl. Tourist Officer Jurisdiction No. (Districts) 1 Chennai Chennai & Thiruvallur 2 Mamallapuram Kancheepuram & Vellore 3 Chidambaram Villupuram & Cuddalore 4 Poompuhar Nagapattinam & Tiruvarur 5 Thanjavur Thanjavur & Pudukottai

6 Tiruchirappalli Tiruchirappalli, Karur & Perambalur 7 Madurai Madurai & Virudhunagar 8 Rameswaram Ramanthapuram & Sivaganga 9 Kanniyakumari Kanniyakumari 10 Salem Salem, Namakkal & Erode 11 Dharmapuri Dharmapuri, Krishnagiri & Tiruvannamalai 12 Kodaikanal Dindigul & Theni 13 Udhagamandalam The Nilgiris & Coimbatore 14 Tirunelveli Tirunelveli & Thoothukudi

9) CLASSIFICATION OF TOURISTS Tourists visiting Tamil Nadu can be broadly classified under the following categories:- a) Leisure Tourists These tourists have only one aim; to enjoy the vacation. They normally come along with their families to visit hill stations, Beach resorts and wildlife sanctuaries.

b) Pilgrim Tourists The trip of pilgrim tourists to Tamil Nadu is solely meant for fulfilling certain spiritual aspirations. After achieving this, they do not hesitate to visit nearby Tourist centres. They are mostly Senior Citizens. c) Heritage Tourists

Tourists of this category restrict their visits to Historical sites, Heritage monuments and the like. d) Adventure Tourists The tourists in this category are normally youth who love to go on trekking or play air/water sports. e) Business Tourists Executives from leading private firms, public sector undertakings, multinational companies, etc. visit Tamil Nadu throughout the year to attend seminars, conferences, conventions or General body meetings. Once the business session is over, these executives take a break and visit tourist centres.

f) Medical Tourists These tourists are normally drawn from other states in India and abroad. Attendants accompany them. After getting discharged from the hospitals, they visit tourist centres for recuperation. g) Academic Tourists The tourists in this category are generally students and research scholars from educational institutions who combine their study tour with tourism. Tourism Department extends concession in entry fee for students visiting Poompuhar Tourist Complex, Sound and Light Show, Madurai and Kattabomman Memorial Fort, Panchalankurichi. h) Social Tourists

This category of tourists visit Tamil Nadu to celebrate festivals with their kith and kin, participate in or organise fairs and festivals and attend to social functions. Such tourists make it a point to visit tourist spots after fulfilling their main objective.

10) GOVERNMENT OF INDIA ASSISTED SCHEMES

Government of India has been assisting the States for the development of tourist infrastructure through the Central Financial Assistance Schemes. During the 8th and 9th five year plan period, it used to fund a large number of small isolated projects all over the country. It resulted in resources being spread very thinly. Therefore it did not create the desired impact on the growth of tourism. Hence Government of India had decided to provide funds during the tenth five year plan (2002- 2007) only for the following schemes: -

a) Integrated Product / Infrastructure and Destination Development Scheme b) Integrated Development of Tourist Circuit c) Large revenue generating projects under Rural Tourism. d) Rural Tourism

The focus under Integrated Product/Infrastructure and Destination Development Scheme is on improving existing products and developing new tourism products to world class standards. For product/infrastructure and destination development, Government of India would accord sanction upto a maximum of Rs.5.00 crores per year, per destination. For the

development of Tourist Circuit the maximum amount that would be sanctioned is Rs.8.00 crores per circuit. Under Large Revenue Generating Projects 25% of the total cost would be sanctioned by the Government of India as grant. The balance 75% have to be met by the State Government/UT etc. In respect of Rural Tourism a sum of Rs.50.00 lakhs would be sanctioned.

Permissible activities under above schemes of Government of India are as follows.-

a) Improvement of the surroundings of the destination. This would include activities like landscaping, development of parks, fencing, compound wall ,etc.

b) Illumination of the tourist destination and the area around.

c) Providing for improvement in solid waste management and sewage management.

d) Procurement of equipment directly related to tourism, like water sports, adventure sports, eco-friendly modes of transport for moving within the tourism zone.

e) Refurbishment of monuments (i.e. 2/3rd Central financial assistance)

f) Signages g) Tourist arrival centers/reception centers/interpretation centers

h) Other work / activities directly related to tourism.

Details of amount sanctioned by Ministry of Tourism, Government of India during 2005- 2006 are as follows:-

Government of India Assisted Schemes Sanction obtained during 2005-2006 ( Rupees in lakhs) S. Name of the Scheme Amount Amount No Sanc- released tioned by GOI Ist instal- ment 1 Integrated 432.00 345.00 Development of Mamallapuram - Phase–II 2 Development of 470.19 376.15 Kodaikanal 3 Development of 426.42 341.14 Rameswaram 4 Development of 459.45 367.56 Tiruvannamalai

5 Development of Jain 192.00 48.00 Theertha Kshetras Tourist Circuit - (Tiru- malai, Mettupatti, Muthupatti Sittanna- vasal, Melchithamur, Thirunatharkunru, Thirunarunkondai, Chitharal, Vallimalai and Thiruparuthikundram)

6 Development of Adi 443.00 354.40 SankaraTourist Circuit -(Mangadu, Thiru- votriyur, Swamimalai, Chidambaram, Thiruvanaikaval, Rockfort, Tiruchirappalli Mayiladuthurai, Kumbakonam and Tiruchendur) 7 Development of 798.97 639.17 Arupadaiveedu Tourist Circuit - (Palani, Pazhamuthircholai, Thiruparankundram, Tiruchendur, Swamimalai, Tiruthani) 8 Development of 500.00 400.00 Chozhanattu Thirupathigal Tourist Circuit - ( Sirkazhi, Thirungari,

Thirukkannapuram, Thiruindalur, Thirukkannamangai, Thirucherai, Nachiyarkoil and Thirukandiyur) (GOI Rs.500.00 lakhs + State share Rs.202.46 lakhs) 9 Development of 50.00 40.00 Devipattinam , Ramanathapuram District (GOI share: Rs.50.00 lakhs + Dist.Admn.fund: Rs.25.60 lakhs) 10 Development of 49.55 39.64 Thiruppudaimarudhur, Tirunelveli District 11 Development of 50.00 40.00 Thirukurungudi, Tirunelveli District 12 Restoration of Tourism 499.50 150.00 Department/TTDC properties damaged due to Tsunami (Tsunami Relief) 13 Setting up of Sound 150.00 135.00 and Light show at Thanjavur 14 Introduction of Audio 44.02 39.62 Guide facility at Mamallapuram (GOI Share: Rs.44.02 lakhs + State Share Rs.44.02 lakhs)

15. Integrated 52.00 41.60 development of Muttukkadu Boat House (GOI share:Rs.52.00 lakhs + TTDC Share: Rs.15.00 lakhs) Total 4617.10 3357.28

Action is being taken to implement above schemes.

During the year 2006-2007, the following destinations would be developed with the assistance of Ministry of Tourism, Government of India:-

DESTINATION a) Madurai b) Thanjavur c) Kanniyakumari d) Vellore

CIRCUIT CHENNAI – KANCHEEPURAM – THIRUKAZHUKUNDRAM (Pakshi Theer- tham) - MAMALLAPURAM

11. GOVERNMENT OF TAMIL NADU ASSISTED SCHEMES

The budget allocation made for Tourism Sector during the last five years is as follows: -

(Rs. in crores) Year Budget Actuals Estimate 2001-2002 17.47 14.75 2002-2003 32.64 12.19 2003-2004 26.79 26.15 2004-2005 30.35 31.29 2005-2006 32.42 37.04 a) Provision of infrastructure facilities at Tourist spots Tourism Department is attaching great importance for upgradation/ creation of basic amenities/infrastructure facilities at all tourist spots in Tamilnadu in a phased manner. Therefore, important but less known tourist spots in each district are identified in consultation with the District Collectors every year. The Tourism Department provides 50% of the total estimate and the balance would be met by the District Administration from the M.L.A.'s/M.P.'s Constituency Development Funds, etc.

During 2005-2006, funds were provided for developing infrastructure facilities in 20 Tourist/pilgrim centres spread over 15 districts. Details are given below: -

(Rupees in lakhs) Sl. Scheme Total Dist. Tourism No. Project Admn. Dept cost Share share

1 Development of 22.28 11.14 11.14 Thirunangur in Nagapattinam District 2 Provision of 20.00 10.00 10.00 infrastructure facilities at Thirumanancheri in Nagapattinam District 3 Provision of 69.00 34.50 34.50 infrastructure facilities at Devarbetta in Krishnagiri Dist . 4 Development of 27.00 13.50 13.50 Chandrasoodesw arar temple at Hosur in Krishna- giri District 5 Development of 60.00 30.00 30.00 Thally Big Tank in Krishnagiri District

6 Development of 4.50 2.25 2.25 approach road to the Thirupulla- mangai Brama- pureeswarar temple, Pasupathikoil in Thanjavur District 7 Provision of 20.00 10.00 10.00 infrastructure facilities at Poondi Madha Basilica in Thanjavur District 8 Development of 12.80 6.40 6.40 Arulmighu Siva Subramaniya Swamy Thirukoil in Tiruvannamalai District 9 Infrastructure 75.50 37.75 37.75 facilities at Tiruvannamalai Municipality area, Tiruvannamalai District 10 Provision of 15.00 7.50 7.50 infrastructure facilities at Kumara Vayalur in Tiruchirappalli District 11 Provision of 80.00 40.00 40.00 infrastructure facilities at Udhaga- mandalam

12 Provision of 120.00 60.00 60.00 infrastructure facilities at Kodaikanal 13 Provision of 7.00 3.50 3.50 infrastructure facilities at Kolli hills in Namakkal District

14 Provision of 32.40 16.20 16.20 infrastructure facilities at Arul- mighu Rathina- greeswarar Temple, Iyyar- malai in Karur District. 15 Provision of 20.15 10.075 10.075 infrastructure facilities at Arul- mighu Kailasa- nathar Temple, Tharamangalam in Salem District 16 Provision of basic 10.00 5.00 5.00 amenities at Vandiyur Mariamman Temple Tank, Madurai 17 Infrastructure 20.80 10.40 10.40 facilities at St. Antony's Church, Melnaraiappanur in Villupuram District.

18 Provision of Bio- 37.50 18.75 18.75 diversity park at Udayagiri Fort in Kanniyakumari District. 19 Development of 130.00 65.00 65.00 Nainarkulam in Tirunelveli District

20. Development of 16.00 8.00 8.00 Sulur Lake in Coimbatore District

Total 799.93 399.965 399.965

For the year 2006-2007, less known Tourist/Pilgrim Centres in each district will be identified and developed. b) Part-II Schemes (2005-2006) Every year funds are provided for new schemes (Part-II schemes). During 2005-2006, the following Part-II schemes were taken up:- (Rupees in lakhs)

Sl. Schemes Amount No 1 Conduct Travel Mart for the first time 20.00 in Chennai with the participation of Private Agencies in order to attract Tourists 2 New Computers for the Tourist Offices 5.00 at Chennai, Kodaikanal, Thanjavur, Chidambaram, Madurai and Commissionerate of Tourism

3 Development of Chennai Pilgrimage 30.00 Circuit consisting of Thiruvidanthai, Thirumazhisai, Thirunindravur, Koyambedu, Melur, Thirumullaivoil, Vallakottai and Thiruvotriyur (I phase) 4 Refurbishment of Kattabomman 11.00 Memorial Fort at Panchalankurichi

5 Provision of infrastructure facilities at 20.00 Elagiri Hills

6 Fax Machines for Five Tourist 1.00 Information Centres at Ahamedabad, Bhubaneswar, Chandigarh, Guwahati and Varanasi 7 Development of Hogenakkal Waterfalls 75.00 area (Tourism Department share Rs.75.00 lakhs + District Administration share Rs.75.00 lakhs)

Total 162.00

For the year 2006-2007 also various new projects will be taken under Part-II Schemes. c) Integrated Coastal Area Development Programme (ICADP) & Eastern Ghats Development Programme (EGDP)

Under Integrated Coastal Area Development Programme, a sum of Rs.10.00 lakhs was sanctioned in 2005-2006 for provision of basic facilities at Silver Beach in Cuddalore

District. Under Eastern Ghats Development Programme, a sum of Rs.5.00 lakhs was sanctioned in 2005-2006 for provision of basic amenities in Sirumalai, a less-known hill station in Dindigul District. Under Integrated Coastal Area Development Programme and Eastern Ghats Development Programme, new areas will be identified and developed by providing basic amenities during the year 2006-2007.

12) PROMOTION AND MARKETING a) Advertisement Printed materials enjoy longer shelf life, unlimited readership and economy in production. In view of this, the Tourism Department released advertisements highlighting the tourist potential of Tamil Nadu in as many as 116 dailies and magazines published from India and abroad during the last year.

During 2006-2007 also such advertisements would be released and preference would be given to magazines/ dailies, which have worldwide large circulations. b) Printing of Pamphlets Tourism Department from its inception has printed several types of pamphlets/folders

in attractive colours and different languages. These pamphlets carry details about the Tourist centres, Transportation, Accommodation facilities, nearby tourist centres, important telephone numbers, photos of tourist spots, etc. These pamphlets are mostly distributed free of cost through Tourist Offices/ Tourist Information Centres, Hotels, Govt. of India Tourist Offices and at Fairs, Festivals, Exhibitions, Conventions, Seminar etc. Printing of Pamphlet is not only cost effective but at the same time long lasting.

Printing of pamphlets especially with surrealistic visuals would be undertaken during 2006-2007. To highlight the importance of World Heritage Monuments, Coffee Table Book about the following World Heritage monuments in Tamil Nadu has been brought out. 1. Nilgiris Mountain Railways 2. Pallava Monuments (Mamallapuram)

3. Great living Chola Temples a. Thanjavur b. Darasuram, c. Gangaikondacholapuram

Further a special booklet on JAIN Monuments in Tamil Nadu has been proposed to be printed during 2006-2007.

c) Participation in Overseas Travel and Tourism Marts

Tourism Sector contributes 4.8 million US dollars to the nation's economy. Foreign tourists constitute the high spending group, who naturally contribute significantly to the growth of local economy and to the foreign exchange reserves. Hence to attract more foreign tourists, Tourism Department, Government of Tamilnadu participated in the popular International Travel Mart " International Tourism Bourse", ITB - Berlin in 2005. Tourism Department will continue to take steps to attract more tourists from foreign countries by participating in International Travel Marts. d) Publicity Campaign

Publicity Campaigns were organized at the major cities such as Chandigarh, Jaipur, Lucknow, Visakapatnam, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Bhubaneswar and AIR/RAIL cum Road TOUR Publicity Campaign at New Delhi in India during 2005-2006.

To make the Marketing Campaign more result oriented, it is proposed to conduct Road Shows during 2006-2007 at important

cities in India during which the tourist wealth of Tamil Nadu would be highlighted through display cum demonstration of Tamil Nadu cuisine, folk arts, holding of Press Conferences, Interaction with the local Travel / Hotel Industry people and representatives of Tourism Department of the respective states, etc.

13) KINDS OF TOURISM The Tourism Department is promoting the following kinds of Tourism in Tamil Nadu:- a) Pilgrim Tourism

The places of worship are symbol of spirituality and more importantly of national integration and communal harmony. They are year round destinations. Almost 90% of the pilgrims turn tourists. The worship centres serve as an excellent marketing tool for Tourism Department. Better infrastructure facilities at places of worship would definitely go a long way in attracting more pilgrims/tourists. Hence, Tourism Department gives priority to provision of infrastructure facilities and basic amenities at pilgrim centres.

During 2006-2007, important pilgrim centres would be identified for developing them.

b) Eco Tourism

Across the world, due to rapid industrialization and stresses of urban life styles associated with it, tourists are showing more interest in Eco-Tourism. The Tourism Department, Government of Tamilnadu would like to capitalise on this situation. During 2006-2007, similar places would be identified and developed. c) Beach Tourism Tourists and local people throng the beaches, as beaches offer recreation virtually free of cost all round the year. It becomes the bounden duty of the Tourism Department to provide basic amenities to the tourists visiting the beaches. During 2006-2007, development of less known beachfronts would be taken up.

Safety and security of all persons including tourists who frequent beaches is paramount for the growth of Tourism and for protection of human life. Any incident/ accident only leads to adverse publicity and perhaps "damages" in future. It is therefore proposed to post Life Guards who are well trained in all major beaches. It is also proposed to place Protection Nets in all major swimming areas to provide for a safe swimming area on the

beaches. These nets would protect a swimmer from being washed into sea or allowing any unwanted sea animal from entering the swimming area. d) Medical Tourism

Tamil Nadu has excellent multi specialty hospitals, which offer best medical treatment. Various other forms of Medicine and alternative therapy viz. Siddha, Ayurveda, Unani, Nature therapy and Yoga are also practiced. As the patients and their attendants contribute in a big way to the growth of tourism, Tourism Department is taking steps to promote the "illness to wellness concept" by dovetailing tourism with health care. For the benefit of health tourists, the immigration authorities at the Chennai International Airport have been requested to provide quick clearances. A request was sent from the Tourism Department to Government of India to introduce a new category of "medical visas" to promote medical tourism. Based on this, the Government of India has announced issue of separate class of visas for medical tourists and their attendants for a maximum period of one year.

The world-class medical facilities and expertise in Tamil Nadu is attracting large number to health tourists. Since the health facilities have been found cost-effective, the

hospitals are doing aggressive marketing in foreign countries. Ethnic tourists from Malaysia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Mauritius and South Africa are also availing health facilities in Tamil Nadu.

During 2006-2007, Chennai, Vellore and Coimbatore would be promoted under 'Medical Tourism'. e) Heritage Tourism

As per the recommendation of the 12th Finance Commission, the Government of India during the next four years will provide Rs.40.00 crores as grant to Tamil Nadu towards conservation of heritage buildings. The same would be utilised judiciously for maintenance of heritage buildings and for providing basic amenities to the tourists at the heritage sites. f) Coastal Tourism The Government of India has formulated a coastal security scheme at a cost of Rs.329.52 crores to protect the country's 7516.6 km. long coastline abutting nine States and four Union Territories Under this scheme assistance will be given to coastal states for setting up police station, purchase of vehicles/vessels, etc.

g) Cruise Tourism

During 2005-2006 at least half-a-dozen luxury liners berthed at Chennai and Thoothukudi ports. Notable among them are Minerva-II from Bangkok, Prinsendam from America, Oriana and Island Sky Nassau from UK. The Department of Tourism and T.T.D.C. accorded traditional welcome to the cruise tourists at the port. Excellent arrangements for sightseeing was made for the tourists.

The ports of Mumbai, Kochi and Goa have been on the International Cruise Map for 40 years. Now the work is therefore on to develop Kochi, New Mangalore, Mormogoa, (Panaji), Mumbai, Kolkatta, Port Blair and Thoothukudi in Tamil Nadu Ports as Cruise Shipping Station. Efforts have therefore been taken to attract a large segment of cruise traffic from the U.S.A and Europe to Indian Ports including Chennai and Thoothukudi. So, as part of marketing of ports of Tamil Nadu, this Department has proposed to co-ordinate with Mumbai Port Trust for the Cruise Marketing.

h) Bird Sanctuaries Large number of tourists visit the bird sanctuaries in Tamil Nadu. Tourism Department is taking steps to provide basic amenities in these sanctuaries. Funds were provided for provision of basic amenities for the bird sanctuaries at Pulicat and Koonthankulam.

During 2006-2007 provision of basic amenities to more bird sanctuaries would be considered. i) Cultural Tourism:

For promoting cultural tourism in Tamil Nadu, the following festivals have been identified as annual events. The programmes of these events are given wide publicity both in India and abroad well in advance to enable travel agencies/tour operators to arrange package tours to coincide with the events.

1) Seasonal Festivals:

Summer Festivals are being organised during May and June at Udhagamandalam, Yercaud, Kodaikanal, Elagiri, Kolli Hills, Nagapattinam Beach, Valparai, Javvadhu Hills

and Silver Beach (Cuddalore). Special Festivals are also conducted in memory of the freedom fighter Veerapandiya Kattabomman at Panchalankurichi in Thoothukudi District in May every year. In addition, Saral Vizha is organised to entertain the tourists who visit the famous waterfalls at Courtallam in Tirunelveli District.

2) Dance Festivals: Sl. Festival Month Place No 1 Dance December/ Mamalla- Festival January puram 2 Natyanjali February/ Chidam- Festival March baram

3) Harvest Festivals:

Sl. Festival Month Place No 1 Pongal January In all important Festival tourist centres of Tamilnadu 2 Tea and January Udhagaman- Tourism dalam/Coonoor Festival 3 Mango June Krishnagiri Festival

4) Other Festivals Tourism Department also participates in the following special festivals:- Sl. Festival Month Place No 1 Sandanak- March Erwadi koodu Festival 2 Chithirai April/May Madurai Festival 3. Chithirai April/May Poom- Full Moon puhar Festival 3 Car Festival May Thiru- varur 4 Chithirai May Tiru- Visu Festival nelveli 5 Aadi Pooram July Melmaru Festival vattur 6 Aadipperukku July/Aug. Bhavani Festival Koodu- thurai & Hoge- nakkal 7 Velankanni August/ Velan- Madha September kanni Festival 8 Kandhuri August/ Nagore Festival September 9 Sadhaya October/ Thanja- Vizha November vur

5) Special events Whenever a convention or seminar or conference participated by high functionaries from other parts of India and abroad is held, the Tourism Department seizes such opportunities to expose the Tourist wealth of Tamil Nadu through distribution of pamphlets, Audio -visual presentation, Photo exhibition, etc. The delegates are presented with mementos, shawls, etc in which the Tourism Department's logo/slogan etc are inscribed/printed. The details of important special events participated by Tourism Department during 2005-2006 are as follows: - a) Federation of Hotels and Restaurants Association of India( FHRAI)

The Tourism Department co-sponsored the 41st three day All India Annual convention of the Federation of Hotel and Restaurants Association of India at Chennai during October 2005 in which more than 700 delegates participated.

b) Pravasi Bharathiya Divas 2006

The Pravasi Bharathiya Divas was held at Hyderabad from 7-1-2006 to 9-1-2006. The function was inaugurated by the Hon'ble Prime Minister of India. Delegates from almost all the states in India and abroad participated in the event. The Tourism Department put up a pavilion highlighting the Tourist spots of Tamil Nadu. An audio-visual presentation and power point presentation were also made which showcased among others, the investment potential available in Tamil Nadu. The event served as an excellent opportunity to market Tamil Nadu Tourism at the National and International level. c) National Pilgrim Festival at Rameswaram

In order to attract more tourists and especially pilgrims to Rameswaram, a National pilgrim festival was organized at Rameswaram from 13-1-2006 to 18-1-2006. The programmes at the festival consisted of tourism carnival, classical / folk dance performances, water sports, swimming competition, country boat race, debate, drama, eco-tourism tour, volley ball and athletic competition, seminar, familiarisation tour etc.

d) National Cultural Festival, Kanniya- kumari

In order to popularize Kanniyakumari at the national and international level, a national tourism and cultural festival was organised at Kanniyakumari from 1-1-2006 to 5-1-2006. The festival was marked by classical music, boat race, handicraft exhibition, tourism awareness procession consisting of horses, elephant, folk dances etc. Large number of tourists (both Indian and Foreign), representatives of the Hotel industry, Tourist operators, Travel agencies, Print/Electronic media etc. participated in the above event with great enthusiasm.

6) Hospitality for foreign Print/Electronic media

Tourism and Hospitality always go hand in hand. Tamil Nadu's traditional hospitality is well known in most parts of world. Journalists, Film/TV/Video crew from the Electronic media, Reporters of Broadcasting Corporations from foreign countries often visit Tamil Nadu for various purposes. Sometimes they are specifically deputed to cover the tourist wealth of Tamil Nadu. On such occasions, the media people are accorded a warm welcome. All arrangements for their food, stay and

transportation are made in a fitting manner. They are fully appraised about the tourist wealth of Tamil Nadu. When they return to their countries, they contribute articles, video clipping etc. and portray the tourist wealth of Tamil Nadu vividly. Tamil Nadu Tourism gets good publicity among the millions of readers/viewers.

14) TRADE FAIR AND EXHIBITIONS: 1) All Tourist Offices and Tourist Information Centres including those in other States celebrate World Tourism Day in September every year.

2) India Tourist and Industrial Fair is conducted every year from December to March at Island grounds, Chennai by TTDC.

3) Tourism Department participates in the Government Exhibitions conducted by Information and Public Relations Department at Salem, Coimbatore, Madurai and disseminates information on Tourism in the exhibition.

15) ACCOMMODATION FACILITIES IN TAMILNADU

In view of the relentless efforts being taken to increase the inflow of tourists to Tamilnadu, there is bound to be a huge demand in the near future for accommodation facilities, especially in and around tourist centres. Apart from Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation's chain of hotels numbering 55, there are large number of classified private hotels in Tamilnadu viz.

Category No. of hotels Heritage 3 5D Star 4 5 Star 3 4 Star 5 3 Star 43 2 Star 17 1 Star 3 ------Total 78 ------

There are numerous unclassified hotels also in Tamil Nadu. The classified hotels alone have combined room strength of around 5000 comprising of single, double and family rooms.

Due to the boom in the Information Technology and I.T. Enabled Services Sector, there will be sustained buoyancy in the hospitality sector. During 2005-2006, the Hospitality Sector recorded occupancy rate of 80% because the giants in the IT, pharmaceuticals, automobile, telecom and banking sections had made the region their favoured " Business destination". At present 29 Hotel Projects are in the pipeline in Tamil Nadu. Out of 29, 5 would be in the five star category, 2 four star, 3 three star and 2 single star category. Increased air connectivity with discounted fares, high disposable income and India and China becoming dynamic " Travel and Tourism Markets", were some of the other major schemes for the buoyancy in the sector. This Department would encourage private entrepreneurs to put up more number of Hotels.

16) OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES FOR 2006-07:

(a) Tourist arrivals: During the year 2005, the tourist arrivals in Tamil Nadu stood at 335.18 lakhs (Domestic & Foreign). Steps will be taken to increase the tourist arrivals as detailed below:-

Year Projected number of tourists (Domestic & Foreign) 2006 360.00 lakhs 2007 400.00 lakhs

(b) Period of stay: Period of stay by tourists in Tamil Nadu is very important from the point of view of earning of revenue by the Government and generation of local economic activities. Hence, Tourism Department is very keen on making the tourists stretch their period of stay in Tamil Nadu as follows:-

Sl. Current "stay" period Target fixed by No. of tourists Tourism Dept

1. 4 to 5 days 7 to 8 days (Domestic Tourists) 2. 7 days (Foreign 10 days Tourists)

Steps would be taken to achieve the above target by promoting less known tourist destinations and pilgrim centres, provision of new facilities like sound and light show, ropeway, boat houses, improving road connectivity to other places of interest near major tourist centres, etc.

The other Promotion & Marketing strategies that would be adopted to increase the Tourist inflow and period of stay are as follows:-

a) Advertisement in dailies, magazines, etc. (both domestic and foreign)

b) Telecast of short films and advertisements in Govt. and private Television Channels of other states. c) Publicity in Close Circuit Televisions at railway stations, airports, bus termini, etc. d) Touch screen information kiosks at important places e) Interactive website f) Printing and distribution of high quality literature in multiple languages. g) E-marketing h) Road Shows 17) TRAINING IN HOTEL MANAGEMENT AND CATERING TECHNOLOGY: a) State Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology, Tiruchirappalli

The Institute was established in the year 1981. It was approved by All India Council of Technical Education, New Delhi and affiliated to Directorate of Technical Education, Government of Tamilnadu. The institute conducts three years

diploma course in Catering Technology and one year certificate course in Front office and Book keeping, Food Production, Bakery and Confectionery, Food and Beverage services and House keeping. At present more than 800 students are studying in this institution. b) Institute of Hotel Management, Catering Technology and Applied Nutrition, Taramani, Chennai.

Government of India established this Institute in 1963. The capital grant is funded by Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. This Institute conducts courses on Hotel Management/Catering technology, Food production, Food beverage services, etc. At present more than 900 students are studying in this institution.

18) NEW VISTAS FOR A VIBRANT TOMORROW

Tourism received a setback due to the attack on World Trade Centre, United States in September 2001 and Tsunami in December 2004. The Tourist activities on the above occasions were disrupted only for a brief period and Tourism regained normalcy in a remarkably short period. This is because Tourism despite being an oldest industry has always new avenues for growth. Tourism Department

proposes to explore the following new avenues during 2006-2007: - A) CABLE CAR To attract Tourists and boost Tourism, "Cable Car" at Udhagamandalam and Kodaikanal will be launched during 2006-2007.

B) SOUND AND LIGHT SHOW To increase the period of stay of tourists, the modernisation of Sound and Light Show at Madurai Thirumalai Palace will be completed at a cost of Rs.96.18 lakhs during 2006-2007. Sound and Light Show at Thanjavur and Kanniyakumari will be established at a cost of Rs.150.00 lakhs and Rs.225.00 lakhs respectively.

C) PURCHASE OF NEW FERRIES FOR KANNIYAKUMARI

His Excellency, the Governor of Tamil Nadu in his address made in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly on 24-5-2006, among others, has announced that the Ferry Service to visit the statue of Saint Thiruvalluvar at Kanniyakumari will be modernised.

Ferry services to Saint Thiruvalluvar Statue and Vivekananda Rock Memorial at Kanniyakumari are operated by the Poompuhar Shipping Corporation. At present, Poompuhar Shipping Corporation is having only two ferries which are not adequate to meet the requirement of tourists. This Department has therefore proposed to purchase new ferries.

D) MASTER PLAN For improving the existing products and developing new tourism products to world-class standards, a Tourism Master Plan for the entire State will be formulated.

E) AUDIO GUIDE FACILITY

The Tourism Department's interaction with the tourists over the last three decades has clearly revealed that one of the foremost facilities expected by the tourists is authentic guide service. Hence, Department has proposed to introduce audio guide facility. Under this system, all that the tourist has to do is to carry a small lightweight digital audio player. Once, the tourist reaches the actual tourist spot, he should press a number on the audio player and listen to a recorded commentary about the tourism spot in his / her own language.

The audio guide has the following advantages:-

1. It is hassle free - No need to run after guides

2. It is authentic - Guides, especially unauthorised Guides may provide wrong information

3. It has multi- - The commentary lingual option can be given in any language the tourists under- stand]

4. It will help in - Since the commen- overseas marketing tary is delivered in efforts all foreign languages attracting foreign tourists will be an easy job

Initially it is proposed to introduce audio guide facility at Mamallapuram, Brihadisvara Temple - Thanjavur, Iravadisvara Temple - Darasuram and Brihadisvara Temple - Gangaikondacholapuram.

F) e-GOVERNANCE In order to derive the maximum out of the latest advancements in Information and Communication Technology, it is proposed to implement a comprehensive e-Governance Project in Tamil Nadu Tourism.

The ultimate aim of the e-Governance is to disseminate information through a Call Centre, which could be accessed from anywhere across the globe and at any time.

19) TAMIL NADU TOURISM DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION LIMITED

Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) was incorporated in 1971 with the main object of promoting tourism in Tamil Nadu by building up adequate tourism related infrastructure facilities on commercially viable basis. TTDC made a modest beginning by taking over 5 Government bungalows and operated 2 coaches. It has made rapid strides and today it has earned the proud distinction of owning the longest chain of hotels in South India numbering 55. The fleet of coaches has increased to 21.

TTDC is providing the following facilities for the benefit of the tourists covering all the major tourist destinations in the State:

Hotels Youth Hostels Restaurants Boat Houses Telescope Houses Lake Park Petrol Bunk

TTDC is operating Youth Hostels in all major tourist destinations including Udhagamandalam, Kodaikanal and Yercaud wherein dormitory accommodation is provided to budget tourists at affordable costs even during the peak summer season of April to June.

FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE:

TTDC has achieved a turnover of Rs.4342.00 lakhs during the year 2005-2006 compared to the turnover of Rs.4056.00 lakhs achieved during the year 2004-2005. TTDC has earned net profit of Rs.283.00 lakhs (before tax) for the year 2005-06 compared to the net profit of Rs.320.00 lakhs recorded during 2004- 2005.

TTDC has improved its turnover during the year 2005-2006 despite facing setbacks like unprecedented rains during the tourist season of November and December, declining trends in Kanniyakumari, Rameswaram and Thiruchendur consequent to Tsunami, severe damages to the Beach Cottages at Mamallapuram.

Franchising of TTDC Hotels and Restaurants:

TTDC has already been permitted by the Government to franchise 31 Hotels and 10 restaurants. TTDC has franchised 14 Hotels and 5 Restaurants till date through transparent tender procedure. In addition to this, two Hotels at Tiruchirappalli (Unit-II) and Thanjavur (Unit-II) were given on long term lease for a period of 30 years. Transport Division:

TTDC operates about 37 types of package tours ranging from half a day to 14 days. The tours cover not only the major tourist destinations in Tamil Nadu, but also the Southern States and other States like Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Orissa. TTDC also operates special package tours catering to the specific demands of the tourists from Malaysia, Singapore, Mauritius and South Africa. The details of package tours operated by TTDC are as follows:-

1. Half Day - Chennai City sight Seeing Tour 2. One Day - Mamallapuram Tour (Round Trip) 3. One Day - Pondicherry Tour 4. One Day - Thirupathi Tour ( Day Trip) 5. One Day - Thiruvannamalai Girivalam Tour 6. One Day - Surutapalli Tour 7. One Day - Sakthi Tour ( Deviar Darshan) 8. One Day - Thirumal Darhsan Tour (Nine Balaji Temples around Chennai) 9. One Day - Kolavai Lake, Vandalur Zoo and Kishkinta Tour 10. One Day - Fun & Enter- tainment Tour 11. One Day - Navagraha Tour (around Chennai) 12. Three Days - Navagragha Tour (Nine Planets Tour) around Thanjavur 13. Three Days - Nava Thirupathigal (Thirunelveli) Tour 14. Three Days - Panchabootha Thalangal Tour

15. Four Days - Arupadai Veedu Tour (Lord Muruga Tour) 16. Six Days - South India Tour 17. Seven Days - Mookambika Tour 18. Seven Days - Goa-Mantralayam Tour 19. Seven Days - Andhra Tour 20. Eight Days - East West Coast Tour 21. Eight Days - Tamil Nadu Tour 22. Fourteen Days - Mumbai - Ajantha Ellora Tour 23. Fourteen Days - Sunny South Tour 24. Fourteen Days - Puri - Gaya - Kasi Allahabad Tour

SPECIAL TOURS

25. Ooty Tour 26. Kodaikanal Tour 27. Yercaud - Hogenakkal Tour 28. Mysore Tour 29. Elagiri Tour 30. Three Days - Munnar Tour 31. Courtallam Tour 32. One Day - Tiruthani - Kalahasti- Nallathor - Mathur Tour 33. One Day - Thondainattu Thirupathigal Tour 34. One Day - Thennangur - Uthiramerur – Madhuranthagam Tour

35. One Day - Vallakottai - Thiruthani Tour 36. Four Days - Chozhanattu Thirupathigal Tour 37. Five Days - Pandiyanattu Thirupathigal Tour 38. Five Days - Hyderabad – Vijayawada Tour

VALUE ADDED PACKAGE TOURS:

Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation Limited launched the Value Added Package Tours viz Rail-cum-Road tours linking New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkatta and Ahemadabad during 2002. In these tours, the tourists are received at the Chennai Railway Station and then taken on a tour of Tamil Nadu in Hitech coaches and are again given a warm send off at Chennai Railway Station. Confirmed Rail tickets are provided to the tourists in these tours.

FAIR DIVISION:

TTDC is organising the India Tourist and Industrial Fair in the Island Grounds, Chennai every year since 1974. The Fair 2006 was inaugurated on 04.01.2006 and was conducted for a period of 76 days.

Fair 2006 proved to be a major attraction to the public, recording a crowd attendance of 10.49 lakhs compared to 8.93 lakhs recorded during Fair 2005. This marks an increase of 17% in crowd attendance. This has been achieved after a lapse of 18 years. This has helped TTDC to record an all time high turn over of Rs.234.00 lakhs and operating profit of Rs.127.00 lakhs compared to the turn over and profit of Rs.206 lakhs and Rs.80.00 lakhs respectively recorded during Fair 2005.

During the non-fair period, several private exhibitions like the Indian Consumer’s Exhibitions were held. Steps are being taken to publicise the Island Grounds among the leading Exhibitors to facilitate the conduct of private exhibitions at the Island Grounds throughout the non fair period of April to November.

SALES PROMOTION AND MARKETING:

1. Special package tours were organised for several companies during the year 2005-06. This has fetched an income of Rs.30.00 lakhs to TTDC. Steps are being taken to secure tie up arrangements with leading public sector companies for accommodating their employees in major hotels of TTDC on the lines of Bharath Petroleum and National Airport Authority.

2.TTDC had entered into tie up arrangements with India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) for letting out our coaches on hire basis for operating their Thirupathi tours. This had fetched an additional turnover of Rs.35.00 lakhs during 2005-2006.

3.Steps are being taken to contact various Government Departments and also State Public Sector Undertakings for organising Special LTC tours for their employees. Online Reservation of TTDC chain of Hotels & Package Tours:

TTDC has earned the proud distinction of being the first State Tourism Corporation in India to launch the Online Reservation System for its hotels and tours on 02.07.2004.

The Online Reservation System has been launched at website http://www.ttdconline.com wherein tourists can book any of TTDC hotels and also package tours instantly from anywhere in the world. The payments can be made by using credit cards and confirmation of bookings obtained instantly. Cancellation can also be made by tourists through Online Reservation System instantly. This system has helped the tourists to plan their travel sitting at home.

TTDC has made bookings to the tune of Rs.47.85 lakhs till March 2006 through the Online Reservation System. Tourists from other States and also from foreign countries have availed the Online Reservation System and made their bookings for their travel and accommodation as indicated below:

Foreign Countries Indian States/ Union Territories

Spain Kerala USA Maharashtra Australia Karnataka Finland Uttar Pradesh Norway Andhra Pradesh Canada West Bengal Italy Gujarat Japan New Delhi Netherlands Pondicherry, Goa,

Maintenance of Thiruvalluvar Statue at Kanniyakumari: The maintenance of Thiruvalluvar Statue at Kanniyakumari was entrusted to TTDC during July 2002. Several improvement works to the tune of Rs.20.00 lakhs for Thiruvalluvar Statue were executed by TTDC. A sum of Rs.40 lakhs was deposited with PWD for execution of other improvement works for the statue. These works are in progress.

Steps taken to improve the performance of T.T.D.C. 1. Erection of attractive hoardings at vantage locations throughout Tamil Nadu publicising the facilities offered in TTDC hotels.

2. Replacement of old air-conditioners in major hotels. 3. Purchase of 120 additional boats for various Boat Houses to augment the boating revenue.

4. Renovation of damaged cottages at Beach Resort Complex, Mamallapuram.

Steps proposed to be taken for improvement of performance during the year 2006-2007:

1. Upgradation of major hotels at Udhaga- mandalam, Kodaikanal, Kanniyakumari, Rameswaram, Madurai, Yercaud and Mamallapuram.

2. To purchase new mattress and pillows for major hotels at an approximate cost of Rs.15.00 lakhs.

3. Purchase of air-conditioners in major hotels in TTDC.

4. Outsourcing the work of D category workers in all the major hotels of TTDC to improve the service standards.

5. Replacement of 10 coaches at an approximate cost of Rs.185.00 lakhs.

6. Tie up with Star hotels having a chain of hotels and having the object of establishing budget hotels in Tamil Nadu for operation and maintenance of TTDC hotels through transparent tender procedure.

7. Implementation of Centralised Online Realtime Reservation System covering 12 hotels and transport division.

8. Gearing up the Marketing machinery for securing bulk accommodation in TTDC Hotels and for organising special tours targetting the corporate clientele.

9. Establishment of new boat house at T.R. Bazaar, Udhagamandalam

10.Improvement of Youth Hostel at Kodaikanal at a cost of Rs.30.00 lakhs.

11.Upgradation of Boat House, Kodaikanal at a cost of Rs.15.00 lakhs.

12.Upgradation of hotel at Hogenakkal at a cost of Rs.15.00 lakhs.

13.Upgradation of Boat House, Yercaud at a cost of Rs.25.00 lakhs.

14.Upgradation of Boat House, Muttukadu at a cost of Rs.45.00 lakhs.

15.Establishment of Convention Centre at Muttukadu at a cost of Rs.500.00 lakhs.

OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE:

TTDC has retired 304 employees under Voluntary Retirement Scheme. This has resulted in substantial savings in establishment cost. TTDC has taken steps to franchise many of its hotels and restaurants and had already franchised 14 hotels and 5 restaurants. Steps are being taken to franchise the remaining 17 hotels and 5 restaurants and focus on improving the maintenance standards and customer service of the major hotels of TTDC. This would improve the existing occupancy levels of these hotels and augment the hotel income. On the transport front, emphasis would be laid on modernising the fleet.

The Ropeway projects proposed at Udhagamandalam and Kodaikanal on implementation would yield substantial income and profits to T.T.D.C.

CONCLUSION

The Government of Tamil Nadu is giving importance for the promotion of Tourism in Tamil Nadu. It is also focusing its attending on promoting less known tourist places.

The Hon'ble Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu is evincing greater interest in Tourism. Under his leadership and with his able guidance, Tamil Nadu Tourism will take every effort to make Tamil Nadu number one State in Tourism in Tamil Nadu.

Under the dynamic Leadership of the Hon'ble Minister of Tamil Nadu, the Tourism Department has dedicated itself and work to encourage more private investment in the Tourism Industry, remove poverty and put Tamil Nadu on the path of prosperity and identify the lesser known tourist places, improve the infrastructure there and make them exciting Tourist Spots.

N. SURESH RAJAN MINISTER FOR TOURISM