PARLIAMENT OF 152

DEPARTMENT - RELATED PARLIAMENTARY STANDING COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORT, TOURISM AND CULTURE

ONE HUNDRED FIFTY SECOND REPORT ON ACTION TAKEN BY THE GOVERNMENT ON THE RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE CONTAINED IN ITS ONE HUNDRED AND FORTIETH REPORT ON PROMOTION OF TOURISM IN AND

(PRESENTED TO THE RAJYA SABHA ON 3 RD March, 2010) (LAID ON THE TABLE OF THE ON 3 RD March, 2010)

RAJYA SABHA SECRETARIAT MARCH, 2010/PHALGUNA, 1931 (SAKA)

Website:http://rajyasabha.nic.in E-mail:[email protected]

PARLIAMENT OF INDIA RAJYA SABHA

DEPARTMENT - RELATED PARLIAMENTARY STANDING COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORT, TOURISM AND CULTURE

ONE HUNDRED FIFTY SECOND REPORT ON ACTION TAKEN BY THE GOVERNMENT ON THE RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE CONTAINED IN ITS ONE HUNDRED AND FORTIETH REPORT ON PROMOTION OF TOURISM IN JAMMU AND KASHMIR

(PRESENTED TO THE RAJYA SABHA ON 3 RD MARCH, 2010) (LAID ON THE TABLE OF THE LOK SABHA ON 3 RD MARCH, 2010)

RAJYA SABHA SECRETARIAT NEW DELHI MARCH, 2010/PHALGUNA, 1931 (SAKA)

CONTENTS

PAGES

1. COMPOSITION OF THE COMMITTEE ...... (i)-(ii)

2. INTRODUCTION ...... (iii)

3. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ...... 1-43

4. OBSERVATIONS /C ONCLUSIONS /R ECOMMENDATIONS –– AT A GLANCE 44-50 ......

5. MINUTES ...... 51-54

COMPOSITION OF THE DEPARTMENT-RELATED PARLIAMENTARY STANDING COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORT, TOURISM AND CULTURE (2009-2010)

1. Shri ------Chairman RAJYA SABHA 2. Shri Ramdas Agarwal 3. Shri Birendra Prasad Baishya 4. Shri Shadi Lal Batra 5. Shri Naresh Gujral 6. Shri Syed Azeez Pasha 7. Shri Thomas Sangma 8. Shri Satish Kumar Sharma *9. Prof. Saif-ud-Din Soz 10. Shri Vikram Verma LOK SABHA 11. Yogi Aditya Nath 12. Shri Avtar Singh Bhadana 13. Shri V. Kishore Chandra S. Deo 14. Shrimati Bhavana Gawali Patil 15. Shri Mahesh Joshi 16. Shri P. Karunakaran 17. Shri Jose K. Mani 18. Shrimati Ranee Narah 19. Shri Rajaram Pal 20. Shri Bal Kumar Patel 21. Shri Nama Nageswara Rao 22. Shri S.D. Shariq 23. Shri Madan Lal Sharma 24. Shri Dushyant Singh 25. Shri Jitendra Singh 26. Shri Rakesh Singh 27. Shri Shatrughan Sinha 28. Shri K. Sugumar 29. Shri Kabir Suman 30. Shri Anurag Singh Thakur 31. Shri K.C. Venugopal

* Nominated on 12th September, 2009. SECRETARIAT Shri N.K. Singh, Joint Secretary Shri Jagdish Kumar, Director Shri Swarabji B., Joint Director Shrimati Nidhi Chaturvedi, Assistant Director

INTRODUCTION I, the Chairman, Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Transport, Tourism and Culture, having been authorised by the Committee to present on its behalf, do hereby present this One Hundred and Fifty Second Report on Action Taken by the Government on the Recommendations/Observations of the Committee contained in its One Hundred and Fortieth Report on Promotion of Tourism in Jammu and Kashmir.

2. The One Hundred and Fortieth Report of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Transport, Tourism and Culture was presented to the Parliament on the 23rd October, 2008.

3. The Action Taken Replies on the recommendations of the Committee contained on its One Hundred and Fortieth Report were received from (i) Ministry of Road, Transport and Highways on the 18th December, 2008; (ii) Ministry of Civil Aviation on 11th May, 2009; (iii) Ministry of Culture on 1st June, 2009; and (iv) Ministry of Tourism on 4th September, 2009.

4. The Committee considered and adopted the Report at its meeting held on the 9 th February, 2010.

SITARAM YECHURY NEW DELHI ; Chairman, February 9, 2010 Department-related Parliamentary Standing Magha 20 , 1931 (Saka) Committee on Transport, Tourism and Culture.

REPORT The Report of the Committee deals with the Action Taken by the Government on the observations/recommendations as contained in its One-Hundred and Fortieth, Report on Promotion of Tourism in Jammu and Kashmir of the Ministries of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Culture and Road Transport and Highways which was presented to both the Houses of Parliament on 23rd October, 2008. 2. Action Taken Replies have been received from the Government on the 18th December,2008, 11th May,2009, 1st June,2009 and 14th September, 2009 in respect of all the observations/recommendations contained in the Report, which have been categorized as follows:

(i) Recommendations/observations, which have been accepted by the Department: Para Nos. 12,21,84,85,106 and 116, Total- 6 (ii) Recommendations/observations which the Committee does not desire to pursue in view of the Department replies: Para Nos. 76, 110 and 121 Total-3 (iii) Recommendations/observations in respect of which replies of the Department have not been accepted by the Committee: Para Nos. 27, 44,52 and 75 Total-4 (iv) Recommendations/observations in respect of which final replies of the Department are still awaited: Para Nos. 23,26,29,30, 38,42,44,47 and 48 Total-9 3. The Committee desires that final replies in respect of those which have been categorized as interim replies by the Committee should be furnished to it at the earliest. 4. On scrutiny of the Action Taken Replies, the Committee has made observations on each item of Action taken/proposed to be taken by the concerned Ministries. The recommendations of the Committee contained in the One Hundred and Fortieth Report, action taken thereon by the Ministries and recommendations/observations of the Committee on each item of action taken has been given in the succeeding paragraphs. 5. Tourism being one of the world’s fastest growing industries today enjoys a vital significance in the overall development of a country, mainly due to its multiplier effect on different walks of life. India too is not an exception in this regard; Tourism is the second largest export industry in India. Foreign tourist arrival here rose from 3.46 million in 2004 to 5 million in 2007. Tourism made a significant contribution to India’s foreign exchange earnings, which grew from $ 6.17 billion (Rs.27,944 crore) in 2004 to $ 11.96 billion (Rs.49,413 crore) in 2007. The share of India in world tourism receipts went up from 0.65 per cent in 2002 to 1.21 per cent in 2006. The contribution of tourism to GDP of the country had been 6.11 per cent in 2004, while employment in tourism sector both direct and indirect had been 41.8 million in 2003, which accounts for 8.74 per cent of total employment in the country. (Recommendations at Para 1 of the 140 th Report)

6. Such an impressive growth in tourism notwithstanding, India’s share in the world’s tourist traffic was a mere 0.55 per cent in 2007. While the number of tourists visiting India and earnings therefrom may be increasing, its slow growth rate as well as insignificant share in world’s tourism has always been a cause of concern to this Committee. (Para 2, ibid )

Reply of the Government 7. As per the tourism data for the year 2008, share of India in international tourism arrivals increased to 0.58 per cent in 2008.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 8. The data provided by the Ministry shows a mere 0.03 per cent increase in the tourist growth during the year 2008. This data further supports the observations of the Committee. The Committee hopes that the Ministry will take further measures to improve the tourist flow to the Country. Further, the Committee desires that the target for the tourist arrival should be specified so that actual status of tourist growth may be arrived at and is comparable.

DEVELOPMENT OF TOURISM IN JAMMU AND KASHMIR 9. Till 1989, tourism had been the major economic activity of the State. During the past one decade, however, the tourist arrival received a major set back affecting the economic activity of the State adversely due to difficult circumstances prevailing in the State. But, the things appears to have been improving slowly particularly during the last a few years. Development of tourism in the State of Jammu and Kashmir, the Committee notes has received priority both by the Central Government as well as the State Government. (Para 5, ibid )

Reply of the Government 10. As per the inputs received from the State Government, tourist arrivals have increased over the last few years in the State. During the year 2008, 5,36,689 tourists have visited the valley upto end of July, 2008 as compared to 2,79,191 during the 2007 year for the same period. However, the tourist traffic has declined due to the agitation in July, August 2008 both in Jammu and Kashmir region. This agitation has not made any difference to the tourist arrival to regions. The Ladakh region has been visited by record number of tourists during 2008. Upto the end of August, 2008, 60,116 tourists have visited Ladakh as compared to 40,185 tourists visited last year.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 11. The Committee is aware of the peculiar situation of Jammu and Kashmir and the practical problem in ensuring tourist arrival. It however, hopes that the tourist inflow will take new peaks in the changed situation in the region. The Ministry should also project the improved situation through advertisements so that more tourists are attracted to visit the State. 12. The Committee appreciates the efforts made by the State Government of Jammu and Kashmir for development of tourism in the State. However, the Committee feels that the strategy and initiatives taken by the State require a more focused approach for effective and structured growth. The Committee was informed that there was no “Tourism Policy” for the State. The Committee is of the opinion that the policy supports would certainly help achieves goals and targets in this sector more effectively. The Committee, therefore, emphasizes the need to have a tourism policy in place. It also emphasizes that the strategy for marketing tourism products of the State needs to be revisited for tapping the domestic and international tourism markets. The State should endeavour to assess the market trend and focus on diverse and varied tourism products of Jammu and Kashmir targeting specially the domestic middle class tourists. (Para 8, ibid )

Reply of the Government 13. The State Government has started action to formulate a vision document for tourism promotion for the State. FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 14. The Committee desired that blue print of the tourism promotion plans may be elaborated so that the Committee would be able to make some contributions and suggestions to the plan. TOURIST ARRIVALS 15. The Committee after visiting many places in an around had a sense of satisfaction that normalcy was returning to the valley, as a large number of tourists were seen at different places that included the local people. The Committee views this as a positive development reflecting the existing mindset of the people about the law and order situation of the valley was changing. The Committee feels that this has an impact in increasing the tourist traffic to the valley not only in summer but during the winter season as well. The Committee is of the view that to keep pace with the increasing traffic, efforts be made to develop quality tourism infrastructure and tourism products for providing better services to domestic and tourism products for providing better services to domestic and international tourist. The Committee desires that State Government and Central Government need to work together to provide best facilities at most economical prices. They should also sensitize/educate all the stakeholders in tourism industry and the general public about various issues including hygiene, sanitation and waste disposal system at monuments and tourist places, treatment of tourist, ensuring safety and security and hassle free comfortable stay for the tourists in the State. (Para 11, ibid )

Reply of the Government 16. The Ministry of Tourism has sanctioned tourism infrastructure projects amounting to Rs.115.57 crore, hospitality education projects of Rs. 9.50 crore and rural tourism projects of Rs.12.53 crore in the Eleventh Plan for development and promotion of tourism in Jammu and Kashmir. Implementation of projects is primarily the responsibility of State Government/ Administration. However, Ministry of Tourism also monitors the progress of the projects with officials from the concerned State Government/Union Territory Administration through site visits and review meetings from time to time. 17. In order to make India a safe destination where Tourists would feel secure and free to move around, a need was felt to consider the deployment of Tourist Police. To look into the safety and security of tourists in this regard all the Chief Minister/Administrators of States and Union Territories were requested for deployment of tourist police/Police force at the prominent tourist places in their respective States/Union Territories. As per the information available the Government of Jammu and Kashmir have complied with the request. The guidelines for formation of Tourist Security Organizations (TSO) for the security and safety of tourist were forwarded to the Chief Minister of the State by the Ministry of Tourism in May, 2008. FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 18. The Committee recommends that the Ministry may pursue the matter to ensure that the States/ Union territories implement the guidelines for formation of Tourist Security Organizations (TSO). The Ministry should also coordinate with the State and Union territories to speed up the action of setting up Tourist Security Organizations. 19. Isolated cases of harassment of tourists severely undermine tourism. The Committee is concerned to note the recent happenings in and Jammu regions after visit of the Committee and hopes that the things will improve very soon. The Committee feels that the role of media is very crucial in building public confidence about a place. It needs to be very careful as a report about a small incident may spread scare all over. A reporting should not have a gap between impression that it creates and actual ground reality. (Para 12, ibid )

Reply of the Government 20. The Ministry of Tourism agrees with the recommendation of the Committee. FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 21. The Committee notes the reply of the Ministry and feels that the press may be sensitized about the issue and close interaction may be maintained with media persons to ensure a more positive projection of ground realities in the State. ADVENTURE TOURISM 22. Both the valley and Ladakh regions, offer excellent locations for different kinds of adventure activities such as mountaineering, trekking, skiing, rafting, canoeing, , mountain-biking, hand-gliding, para-sailing, heli-skiing, etc. Apart from the areas selected for adventure tourism such as Sonemarg, , Aru (), (), Stock (), Patnitop, Mansar, there are several other areas which need to be developed for this purpose, particularly in Ladakh region. Kargil is now catching the imagination of tourists very fast. (Para 13, ibid )

Reply of the Government 23. Development and promotion of tourism including Adventure Tourism is primarily the responsibility of State Governments concerned. However, Ministry of Tourism has requested the State Government of Jammu and Kashmir to take necessary action in this regard. The Ministry has set up an Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering (IISM) in Gulmarg for promoting skiing, mountaineering etc. and also provides funds for courses to the Institute. FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 24. The Committee hopes that the setting up of Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering (IISM) is a beginning and the Ministry will endeavour to set up more such institutions at other places in Jammu and Kashmir. 25. During the discussion at Leh, the representatives of LAHDC brought to the notice of the Committee that as a result of development initiatives and as per the aspirations of the people, new approach roads, even in remote areas were being developed. On the flip side, the constructions of roads to new villages have had an adverse impact on the tourism in a way that most of the trekking routes passing through villages have been converted into motorable roads. In this context, they cited an example of Sham valley trek from Likr to which has since been become a motorable road. They requested for development of new trekking routes across Ladakh. (Para 14, ibid )

Reply of the Government

26. The observations have been communicated to the Government of Jammu and Kashmir.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE

27. The Committee notes the reply of the Ministry with dismay. The Committee feels that the Ministry should have obtained the reference of the State Government before submitting replies to it. The Committee desires that the Ministry should further pursue the matter with the State Government. It is expected to adopt a proactive approach in such matters.

28. The Committee notes that Adventure Tourism is relatively a new segment and Ministry of Tourism is providing financial assistance to the State for development of infrastructure and other facilities required for trekking, rock climbing, mountaineering, winter sports, skiing etc. The Committee also notes that J&K Tourism Department was able to acquire good quality equipment of international standard for these activities. The Committee feels that the Kashmir Valley and the Ladakh region have immense potential for adventure tourism that largely remains untapped so far, despite Government efforts made for this purpose. It has been found that foreign tourists are more attracted to such tourism and, if, the latest equipments and infrastructure supported by the wider publicity and human resources were provided, the Committee has little doubt that adventure tourist would not be attracted to Jammu and Kashmir in large numbers. The Committee recommends the Ministry to prioritize the Adventure Tourism projects in the Jammu and Kashmir and give adequate publicity in India and abroad. (Para 16, ibid )

Reply of the Government

29. Ministry of Tourism promotes and publicises India tourism products including adventure tourism through printing of brochures/literatures/collaterals etc., website www.incredibleindia.org print and electronic media, participation in international events like WTM London, ITB Berlin and Dissemination of Information through India tourism offices in India and abroad.

30. The construction of building of Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering Gulmarg is completed and made functional.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE

31. The Committee finds the reply to be blatantly evasive. The recommendation was about developing adventure tourism in the State and adequate publicity thereof. Most regretfully, the replies about the first part have been held up. The Committee hopes this was not deliberate. It expects the officials to be more careful while preparing replies on Committee’s recommendations/observation. The Committee reiterates its recommendations that the Ministry should prioritize the Adventure Tourism projects in Jammu and Kashmir and give adequate publicity in India and abroad.

32. The Committee also desires the Ministry to identify new/alternate trekking routes with the help of LAHDC and Jammu and Kashmir Government in the Ladakh region. The Committee recommends that while going for construction of roads to new villages, planning may be done in such a way that old and popular trekking route be saved. Granting a special package to Ladakh region for developing new trekking routes may be considered and finalized at the earliest. (Para 17, ibid )

Reply of the Government 33. The recommendation of the Committee has been sent to the State Government of Jammu and Kashmir.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE

34. The Committee would like to be informed of the steps taken by the Government of Jammu and Kashmir for development of trekking routes. The Committee would also like to know about the efforts made by the Ministry to obtain State Government’s response to all such paras sent to them. The Ministry can not wash its hands off just by forwarding Committee’s recommendations to the State. It is their responsibility to procure them and submit to the Committee with replies. 35. The Committee notes with satisfaction that the construction of building for IISM at Gulmarg has been completed and will be handed over to the IISM by the ITDC. The Committee feels that without proper building, the IISM would not play its role and carry out its activities. The Committee is of the view that up-gradation of the institute will not only result in increment in the tourist traffic to the valley but also promote adventure and sports tourism in particular. The Committee, therefore, recommends the Ministry to ensure early transfer of building to IISM at Gulmarg without further delay. (Para 18, ibid )

Reply of the Government

36. The building of IISM at Gulmarg has been transferred to the Ministry of Tourism by the ITDC.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 37. The Committee is happy to note that IISM has been handed over its building at Gulmarg. The Committee hopes that IISM will now help in exploration of avenues of adventure and sports tourism in the region.

PILGRIM TOURISM 38. Pilgrim tourism in the State is yet another important aspect of tourist attraction in the State. Mata Vaishnodevi Temple in Jammu, famous sufi shrines and mosques in Kashmir and the Holy Amarnath Cave are important centres of pilgrimage. Ladakh region also has been a preferred tourist destination particularly for foreigners because of the centuries-old monasteries as places of worship, education and store-house of ancient Buddhist literature, artefacts etc. (Para 19, ibid )

39. The J&K Government informed about its initiative to combine pilgrim traffic with leisure tourism in the State. During the meeting the representatives of LAHDC pointed out that in the recent past there had been repeated tragedies en-route ‘Kailash Mansarovar Pilgrimage’ via Uttarakhand in which large number of lives were lost. Due to the vulnerability of this route possibility of recurrence of such tragedies is always there. Accordingly, they suggested that an alternative route via Demchok in Ladakh needs to be opened for Kailash Mansarovar Pilgrimage. (Para 20, ibid ) Reply of the Government

40. The recommendations of the Committee have been communicated to the Ministry of External Affairs.

41. Since Ladakh has the best route to Kailash Mansarovar via Demchok, the Committee desires that the possibility could be explored for allowing Kailash Mansarovar Pilgrims via Demchok in Ladakh as an alternative route, which is safer dependable and shorter. A special promotion campaign should be made to attract larger number of pilgrims to the places of worship in all the region of the State by offering affordable packages. (Para 24, ibid ) Reply of the Government 42. Recommendation has been noted. Since the route to Kailash Mansarovar is identified by Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Tourism has written to MEA for inputs. Ministry of External Affairs has informed that the matter of opening Demchok as an alternative route for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra has been formally raised with the Chinese side. However, the Chinese response has not been positive so far. A campaign may be considered by Ministry of Tourism once the route is opened for the tourists/pilgrims. FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 43. The Committee feels that Ministry of External Affairs may further pursue the matter with Chinese authorities. 44. During the deliberations, the Committee had been informed by the representatives of the State Governments and LAHDC that ‘Bed and Breakfast’ and ‘Paying Guest Accommodation’ schemes had been introduced with a view to providing comfortable and homely stay to the tourists and to supplement the availability of accommodation in Jammu and Kashmir. The scheme was getting momentum in the State and was successful. They suggested that due publicity needs to be given to the tourists about the location of such accommodation and that it needed to be expanded further. (Para 21, ibid )

Reply of the Government 45. The Ministry of Tourism agrees with the recommendation of the Committee. This has also been communicated to the State Government of Jammu and Kashmir. FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 46. The Committee feels that mere agreeing to the proposal does not serve the purpose of providing publicity to ‘B&B and PG’ (‘Bed and Breakfast’ and ‘Paying Guest Accommodation’). The Ministry must inform the Committee about the steps taken to provide publicity to boost tourism. 47. The Committee feels that the pilgrim tourism has great tourist potential in all the three regions of the State and is one of the major contributors to its economic growth both in terms of employment and other activities. The facilities for pilgrims need to be further expanded and the Government of Jammu and Kashmir should exploit the potential of Jammu as a tourist destination and not just as transit point en route to Kashmir or on a pilgrimage to the Vaishno Devi temple. (para 22, ibid ) Reply of the Government 48. Development and promotion of tourism is undertaken primarily by the State Government/Union territory Administrations. However, Ministry of Tourism, , extends financial assistance to the State Governments/Union Territory Administrations for tourism related projects, which are identified in consultation with them. Project proposals that are complete in all respect are approved as per guidelines on the basis of inter-se priority and funds released subject to availability of funds. The Ministry of Tourism has sanctioned tourism infrastructure projects amounting to Rs.115.57 crore, hospitality education projects of Rs. 9.50 crore and rural tourism projects of Rs.12.53 crore in the Eleventh Plan for development and promotion of tourism in Jammu and Kashmir. ..

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 49. The Committee thanks the Ministry for delineating the roles of the Union and State Governments in promotion of tourism. As such it is a joint responsibility; the replies also should have been prepared jointly. It would have been highly obliged, had the Ministry responded specifically to the Committees recommendations/observations that were specific about facilities to pilgrims of Vaishno Devi Temple. The Committee notes the allocation of resources in the Eleventh Plan. The Committee hopes that the sanctioned amount will be utilized judiciously within the scheduled period. 50. The Committee appreciates the efforts of the State Government for encouraging local residents to supplement the availability of accommodation for the comfortable stay of tourists in their homes to experience local customs and traditions and relish authentic cuisine in the natural and affordable manner. This scheme appears to be working well both for the tourist as well as the local residents. It needs to be further strengthened and expanded to many more villages and towns. (Para 23, ibid )

Reply of the Government 51. The recommendations of the Committee has been communicated to the State Government of Jammu and Kashmir.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 52. The Committee hopes that response of the State Government will be communicated to the Committee as soon as possible. TOURISM INFRASTRUCTURE 53. Tourism infrastructure comprises inter-alia hotels, and other types of accommodation to tourists. In case of the valley, Houseboats and Shikaras had been the most sought after tourist accommodation. During the discussion, the Kashmir Hotel and Restaurant Federation brought to the notice of the Committee that the Kashmir offered a variety of accommodation options for visitors, ranging from luxury hotels to humble lodges, guest houses etc. There were hotels to suit every requirement. A number of hotel properties were lying in shambles which should be brought back to their earlier glory, if, Government of India came forward with plans and packages for their restoration. It will not need more than a few hundred crore grant-in-aid to prepare all these properties in places like Srinagar, Pahalgam and Gulmarg for the up market tourists. The Committee was informed that the Valley had adequate accommodation infrastructure, to the tune of about 20 lakh for lower, middle and upper middle class tourists. As such, there is no need of further expansion in this sector it was argued. They demanded that a prudent loan scheme could be devised for renovation/upgradation of these hotel properties in Jammu and Kashmir and modalities may be worked out for granting interest free loans for the purpose. In view of the position of accommodation explained above, and if it is true, the Committee feels that there is a need to help them renovate. The Committee desires the Governments to prepare a plan after mutual consultation for revival of these hotel properties lying in utter neglect. However, the Committee emphasizes the need for bigger and organized hotels to attract high end tourists in the State. (Para 25, ibid )

Reply of the Government 54. As of now, the Ministry of Tourism provides Central Financial Assistance for construction of budget accommodation in the State of Jammu and Kashmir. However, the extant Scheme Guidelines do not provide for renovation of hotel properties/extending financial assistance for construction of luxury hotels.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 55. The Ministry may explore Public-Private-Partnership model for setting up construction of luxury hotels to boost high end tourism in the State.

56. The Committee also recommends the Government to provide grant-in -aid to the Centaur Hotel, Srinagar located just on the bank of Dal Lake for its total renovation and restoration and providing other facilities. The portion occupied by the security forces also needs to be vacated by accommodating them elsewhere, except for those needed for its own security. (Para 26, ibid )

Reply of the Government

57. It pertains to Ministry of Civil Aviation. This has been forward to them for necessary action.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 58. The Committee may be apprised of the action taken by the Ministry of Civil Aviation. The Committee feels that the Ministry of Civil Aviation may be pursued further to act on the recommendations of the Committee. 59. The Committee had seen the deteriorating condition of the legendary Dal Lake in Srinagar. The factors responsible for its pollution, encroachment etc. mainly comes from the pressure of human settlement along its shores and within the lake itself. The present open lake area is only 12 square km. (approx.), which is but a vestige of what was there even in the 18th century. The shrinking of the lake is due to “siltification”- where the feed rivers dump huge silt deposits into the water catchments. These are pointed source suffocating the lake and contaminating its water mass. The raw sewage is feeding an already rapid growth of algae and raising weed growth to critical and unmanageable levels. The Committee expresses its concern over the fast deterioration of the Dal Lake eco-system. The Committee is of the opinion that conservation and preservation of Dal Lake should be our priority. The Committee, therefore, recommends the Ministry to pursue the matter with the Ministry of Environment and Forests for formulation of Action Plan to control and manage pollution, de-silting, and de-weeding for conservation of the lake eco-system. The Committee also recommends that a proper sewage disposal system should be in place to reduce the organic discharge into the lake from the cluster of house-boats. The encroachments also must be removed. (Para 27, ibid )

Reply of the Government 60. The recommendations of the Committee has been communicated to the Ministry of Environment and Forests and the State Government of Jammu and Kashmir.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE

61. The Committee to its utter dismay notes that the Ministry has again very conveniently stepped out of the line by just passing the recommendations of the Committee to the Ministry of External Affairs and the State Government. The Committee further hopes that in view of the importance of the matter, more proactive approach would be taken in coordination with the concerned Ministries/authorities. 62. The Committee understands that the Government, through its own limited resources, has not been able to provide the requisite funds for the development of tourist infrastructure in the country. The Committee is of the opinion that the participation of the private sector can go a long way in supplementing the efforts of Government in developing the tourist infrastructure in the J&K. The Committee, therefore, strongly recommends that the Central/State Governments must try to remove the obstacles faced by the private investors and ensure early implementation of the single-window clearance system for tourism projects. (Para 28, ibid )

Reply of the Government 63. Ministry of Tourism fully agrees with the observation made by the Committee that the private sector can go a long way in supplementing the efforts of the Government in developing tourist infrastructure in J&K. The State Govts. are advised, however, to frame the proposals for central financial assistance from the Ministry of Tourism under the extant guidelines and submit them after obtaining all clearance like that on land availability, forest departments etc., so that the projects could be implemented in right earnest.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 64. The Committee may be apprised of any plan received from Government of Jammu and Kashmir. If not, the Ministry may advise the State Government to send proposals.

65. The most desirable location is the Boulevard, which overlooks the Dal Lake. Many tourists are attracted to Srinagar by the charm of staying on a houseboat, which provide the unique experience of living on the water in a cedar-panelled elegant bedroom, with all the conveniences of a luxury hotel. These houseboats can be seen along the Dal and Nagin Lakes and River Jhelum. But, the Committee was told that the Shikarawalas and Houseboat owners, due to lack of tourists during the last years, are finding it very difficult even to afford their upkeep and maintenance. The Committee feels that these being symbols of Kashmir and keeping in view large number of people depending on these for livelihood, need adequate support to keep them running. It, therefore, recommends that suitable assistance and support be given to these Shikarawalas and Houseboat owners in the form of soft loans/subsidy for this purpose. (Para 29, ibid )

Reply of the Government

66. The recommendations of the Committee has been communicated to the State Government of Jammu and Kashmir. FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE

67. The Committee does not accept this as a reply and request the Ministry to submit specific reply in consultation with the State Government.

68. Leh offers a variety of accommodation to suit almost every pocket or preference. Most hotels are family-run establishments and as such, the services are more personalized than professional. Restaurants, providing food and beverages; tourist transport system for internal sightseeing and long- distance travel; Boutiques selling goods of interests to tourists other than goods of daily use like toiletries, food articles, etc.; entertainment, leisure and sports facilities which directly serve tourism are there but need to be made more organized.

Reply of the Government 69. The recommendations of the Committee have been communicated to the State Government of Jammu and Kashmir.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 70. The Committee hopes that the Ministry will pursue the matter with the Government of Jammu and Kashmir and inform the Committee about the action taken. 71. The Committee finds that Leh generally is a long haul destination among adventure tourists who love nature and has variety of accommodation suiting to the requirement of the tourists. The Committee finds that there is a lack of good quality hotel with convention facilities in Leh and the hotel staff need to be trained in the, hospitality industry. The share of local people in the hospitality sector in Leh is negligible. The Committee, therefore, recommends that local people should be encouraged and educated by training service providers to take part in the hospitality sector. (Para 31, ibid )

Reply of the Government 72. The Ministry of Tourism is already alive to the necessity of creating training facilities specific to hospitality education in Ladakh region. Keeping this in view, the Ministry has sanctioned a Food Craft Institute at Leh at an estimated cost of Rs.538.48 lakhs. The Central assistance, however, will be limited to Rs.475.00 lakhs of which Rs. 375.00 lakhs will be for civil work and the balance for the purchase of equipment. The first instalment of the grant amounting to Rs.200 lakhs has been released.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 73. The Committee notes the sanctioning of Food Craft Institute and release of Rs.200 lakhs. The Committee hopes that the Institute will be opened shortly. The Government should explore the possibility of providing good quality budget hotels with convention centers through PPP mode or otherwise. CENTRAL FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE SCHEME IN JAMMU AND KASHMIR 74. The Committee notes that three tourist circuits were sanctioned by the Ministry of Tourism in the State of J&K at a cost of Rs.21.78 crore for Jammu--, Lakhanpur-Sarthal and Bhaderwah--Sinthan-Srinagar. Out of the sanctioned amount of Rs.21.78 crore, only a sum of Rs.2.90 crore has been spent till date. Further, it notes that under PM’s Reconstruction Program for creation of infrastructure facilities in the State of J&K, a sum of Rs.240.00 crore was sanctioned and 201 schemes were identified between the year 2005-06 to 2007-08 at a cost of Rs.93.05 crore. The Government of India released a sum of Rs.67.18 crore for development of the projects identified under the package, but the State Department of Tourism could utilize only Rs. 25.71 crore so far. The Committee was informed that projects worth Rs.150.00 crore were yet to be sanctioned by the Ministry of Tourism to the State Government. (Para 34, ibid )

Reply of the Government 75. The utilization of funds for the three tourist circuit, Jammu-Rajouri-Poonch, Lakhanpur-Sarthal and Bhaderwah-Kishtwar-Sinthan-Srinagar has increased to Rs.6.46 crore. Central financial assistance provided to the 12 Development Authorities under the PM’s Reconstruction Plan as on 30.6.2009 is Rs.113.34 crore and the amount released is Rs. 77.72 crore. The State Government has reported the expenditure Rs.25.71 crore so far. The project proposals of the State Government are considered subject to the scheme guidelines inter-se priority and availability of funds and the projects which are not as per the guidelines are returned to the State Government. FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 76. The Committee feels that timely implementation of the projects will result in better utilization of funds. Hasty works at the end of the financial year to consume the balance funds ultimately results in wastage of money as the quality standards could not be followed in works. The expenditure blue print may help to implement the plans step by step in an organized way. 77. During the course of deliberations, the Committee pointed out shortfalls in expenditure of budgetary allocations in almost every project and wanted to know the reasons for this. The Secretary, Government of Jammu and Kashmir while agreeing to the shortfalls in the utilization of funds sanctioned/released by the Central Government informed the Committee that the major tourist destinations in Jammu and Kashmir remained snow bound and therefore cut-off for a considerable period resulting into road-block and shortage of men and material. Hence, delay on the physical progress of work and under utilization of funds gets delayed. He suggested that if the sanction of projects were given by October-November, it would enable them to make use of nonworking months for completing pre-construction procedures so that the work was immediately started after the snow melted. (Para 35, ibid ) Reply of the Government 78. The proposals from the State Government for central financial assistance for the tourism projects are received throughout the year. The Ministry of Tourism endeavours to sanction the projects at the earliest possible subject to the proposal being as per the scheme guidelines, inter-se priority and availability of funds. Sanctioning of infrastructure projects to the states by 30th Sept., of each year is followed as a policy by the Ministry of Tourism. The progress of implementation of these projects is also monitored by the Ministry of Tourism in coordination with the State Government through site visits and review meetings. Monitoring of projects is a continuous process. FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 79. The Committee while agreeing with Ministry observes that monitoring was a continuous process, still finds a shortfall and pendency. The Committee feels that the present mode of monitoring system needs improvement for achieving better goals. 80. The representatives of the tour operators at Leh demanded that the new areas need to be opened in Ladakh region for tourism. It was informed that last major area opened for tourism was 12 years back and no other areas had been opened thereafter. They submitted that tourism was a main source of income to the tribal residents of Ladakh and there was utter lack of infrastructure for this in the area. It was demanded that Leh-Pangong-Spangmik-Hanle--Mahe-Leh circuit can be developed as a major tourist destination. (Para 36, ibid ) Reply of the Government 81. Leh has been indicated as a mega Destination under the Product Infrastructure Development for Destinations & Circuits Scheme for which a maximum of Rs.25.00 crore is admissible as central financial assistance. The State Government has been asked to prepare a detailed project report and send the same to the Ministry of Tourism. FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 82. The Committee desires that the matter may be pursued further and the Committee may be informed the response from the State Government. CENTRAL FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE SCHEME IN JAMMU AND KASHMIR 83. The Committee notes with concern that a large number of tourism projects were sanctioned by the Union Ministry of Tourism for the State of J&K during the last three years, but the pace of their progress has been very slow. The Committee appreciates the constraints faced by the State due to adverse weather, shortage of working days as well as manpower. The Committee recommends that the Government of India should consider modifying the norms for release of funds to the State keeping in mind the topography and difficult terrain of the region and ensure that projects do not lag behind for want of funds at any time during the financial year. The Committee also desires that there should be proper co-ordination with the State Government so as to obtain utilization certificates etc. (Para 37, ibid ) Reply of the Government 84. Keeping in view the recommendation of the Committee regarding the difficulties faced by the State Government owing to the topography and difficult terrain of the region, the implementation period of a project for which CFA is provided by the Ministry of Tourism has been increased to 36 months. Accordingly the pattern of the release of the CFA has also been modified from 80%, 20% to 20%, 60%, and 20%. The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India is regularly taking up with the State Government for timely submission of the utilization certificates.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 85. The Committee notes the reply given by the Ministry and hopes that with modified CFA, the State would be able to utilize the money. 86. The Committee was informed that posts particularly at key positions were lying vacant for years. The committee desires that the State Government should be impressed upon to fill up all the vacant posts specially the key-positions, at the earliest so that the infrastructure development projects were not unduly delayed. (Para 38, ibid )

Reply of the Government 87. The recommendations of the Committee has been communicated to the State Government. FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 88. The Committee recommends that the State Government may be pursued to fill up the posts urgently. The Committee also desires to know the response and the present status thereof. 89. The Committee also recommends that since infrastructure development holds the key to sustained growth in tourism sector, there is a need that the tourist sites and destinations should be carefully selected on the basis of their potential to provide all essential infrastructural facilities required by the tourists. An aggressive marketing and publicity of these destinations and circuits should be made to generate tourism markets across the world. The Committee also recommends that possibility be explored to open “Leh-Pangong-Spangmik-Hanle-Nyoma-Mahe-Leh” as a tourist destination in Ladakh for inbound tourists. The Committee also impress upon the Ministry of Tourism to identify more such circuits and destinations in the three regions to offer new products to tourists. It would given impetus to the socio-economic development of the people living in the State.

Reply of the Government 90. This issue is being deliberated upon in consultation with the concerned Ministries/Agencies such as Ministry of Defence, ITBP, RAW etc. Leh has been indicated as a mega Destination under the Product Infrastructure Development for Destinations & Circuits Scheme for which a maximum of Rs.25.00 crore is admissible as Central financial assistance. The State Government has been asked to prepare a detailed project report and send the same to the Ministry of Tourism.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 91. The Committee desires to know the response of the Ministries and State Government over the issue. 92. The Committee has been informed that in J&K, 50 tourist villages were identified for tourism development at a cost of Rs.35 crore. Out of these, 9 tourist villages were sanctioned by the Ministry of Tourism at a cost of Rs.5.06 crore. Only 5 villages have since been completed ( Annexure-II ). The Secretary Tourism, Government of J&K informed the Committee that 34 projects are pending with the Ministry of Tourism for sanction and requested the Committee that the projects should expeditiously be cleared for development works.

Reply of the Government 93. The Ministry of Tourism has sanctioned 20 rural tourism projects in the state. 29 rural tourism projects were examined and returned to the state Government on account of certain deficiencies which are to be submitted as per the scheme guidelines.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 94. The Committee further recommends that the examination and finalization of the projects should be done in a time bound manner with Ministry of Tourism acting as facilitator in this regard. 95. The Committee is of the view that rural tourism has great potential in Jammu and Kashmir where any village could be developed as a tourist destination. It helps to provide boost to the local arts and conserve the local culture apart from preventing rural - urban migration. The Committee, therefore, feels that the rural tourism needs to be given added impetus in the State of Jammu and Kashmir. The Committee notes that out of 9 rural tourism projects sanctioned in the State only 5 projects have since been completed. The Committee is of the view that more villages should be identified for priority development involving the local bodies in order to promote tourism in rural areas. All the pending rural tourism projects of the Government of Jammu & Kashmir should be examined and expedited by the Ministry of Tourism at the earliest. (Para 41, ibid )

Reply of the Government 96. Considering the importance of rural tourism in Jammu & Kashmir, the Ministry of Tourism has sanctioned 20 rural tourism projects in the State. 29 rural tourism projects were examined and returned to the state Government on account of certain deficiencies which are to be submitted as per the scheme guidelines.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 97. The Committee notes the reply of the Government. RELAXATION IN INNER LINE RESTRICTION 98. Ladakh was thrown open for outside world in 1974. However, entry to some areas was restricted or was out-of-bound for foreign as well as domestic tourists. In the year 1994, new areas were thrown open but only for those holding a valid inner line permit with a restriction of time limit of a week and a group of minimum four persons. The Chief Executive Councilor, Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, Leh demanded that these restrictions now need to be relaxed. He further suggested that the duration of the visit to inner line areas should be extended to 15 days from the existing 7 days and the minimum number in a group travelling to restricted areas to be reduced from four to one. (Para 42, ibid ) Reply of the Government 99. These recommendations have been communicated to the Ministry of Home Affairs. FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 100. The matter may be pursued with Ministry of Home Affairs and this response may be intimated to the Committee 101. The Committee is also of the view that normally, any restriction of the number of tourists and the duration would certainly impede promotion of tourism in a region; it is true about Ladakh as well. The issue of relation in the existing restrictions needs to be considered in totality by the concerned authorities of the Government at various levels. Much water has run into river Sindhu since this decision was taken; this is high time that it should be reviewed suitably. (Para 43, ibid ) Reply of the Government 102. In connection with the representation made by various associations/ Societies on various matters during the study visit of the Parliamentary Committee to Srinagar and Leh from 1st to 6th June’08, request has been sent to the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India and the Government of Jammu & Kashmir to taken necessary action. FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 103. The Committee desire to know the response/stand of Ministry of Home Affairs and that of the State Government. The Ministry of Tourism should pursue the matter with them and inform the Committee accordingly. TOURIST TRANSPORT 104. Surface transport is the main mode of transportation in the State of Jammu and Kashmir and has become one of the vital infrastructures in the process of development of State economy. New housing colonies and town have come into existence due to increase in human population which have in turn increased the demands for transport facilities. The State Road Ttansport Corporation has been operating a fleet of luxury coaches both for transportation as well as for sight-seeing of various resorts. There are a large number of taxis catering to the up market tourists. For local transport, ponies, auto rickshaws, bikes and bicycle are also available. But the transport sector, both in the form of coaches as well as taxis does not come up to international standards. (Para 44, ibid )

Reply of the Government 105. These have been communicated to the State Government.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 106. The Committee feels that mere communication to the State Government does not serve the purpose. The need of the hour is to sensitize the State Government to look into the issue and make plans for the road transport sector so that tourism is made convenient. There is a need to support the State Government by providing expertise and financial help to reform the transport sector. Such replies in fact, reflect all pervasive attitude of passing the buck in our delivery system. 107. The Committee desires that the State Government should come forward by way of providing low interest loans to the private transporters for creating a fleet of super deluxe coaches and luxury cars for the tourists. Till then outside coaches carrying groups of tourists should be allowed to operate in the State without any hassle. (Para 45, ibid )

Reply of the Government 108. This subject matter could have been taken up by the State Government in consultation with the concerned Ministry. However, in this regard, the Ministry of Tourism has not received any presentation/representation from the Government of Jammu & Kashmir.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 109. The matter, after it was referred to the State Government of Jammu and Kashmir, it appears, has not been pursued for taking appropriate action. The Committee recommends that the Ministry of Tourism may ask the State to submit a detailed proposal to be placed before the Committee at the earliest. GONDOLA 110. The experience of setting up of Gondola (rope-way) in Gulmarg has shown that it is, a very viable preposition as a tourist attraction. It has proved to be a great success there. There are immense possibilities of setting up of such Gondolas in different tourist areas such as Pahalgam, and Patnitop. Some of these ropeways would not only be a tourist attraction but would open up areas for tourist who is interested in winter sports, as in Gulmarg. However, the Committee noticed that many carriages are not being used for want of petty technical repairs and were lying unattended leading to huge queue at the rope-way. (Para 46, ibid )

Reply of the Government 111. These have been communicated to the state Government for appropriate action.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 112. The Committee notes the reply. 113. The Committee feels that the installation of more Gondolas would open up new tourist areas in a sustainable manner without damaging the ecology of the area. The Committee recommends that the booking of tickets of these Gondolas at Gulmarg should be de-centralised through J&K tourism offices in the country to avoid huge rush at the booking counters in Gulmarg and efforts be made to make the visit to Gondolas as the part of the package tour so that the tourists are not harassed at the booking windows. The Committee also desires that online bookings of the tickets should also be made permissible and the carriages which are not being used for petty technical repairs, should be made functional without further delay in view of the heavy rush of tourist in Gulmarg. (Para 47, ibid )

Reply of the Government 114. These have been communicated to the state Government for an appropriate action.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 115. The Committee notes the reply and expects the Ministry to submit the response of the State Government at the earliest. LEAVE TRAVEL CONCESSION 116. Special offers from the Government and other agencies for their employees have proved to be successful in the past. The Committee recommends that the LTC packages for Central Government/Public sector employees to visit Kashmir should be re-introduced to promote tourism and to revive the domestic tourist traffic to the J&K region by Air. (Para 48, ibid )

Reply of the Government 117.The recommendation of the Committee has been communicated to the Department of Personnel & Training.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 118. The Committee notes the reply given by the Ministry.

HOTEL MANAGEMENT INSTITUTE AT SRINAGAR 119. There is a Hotel Management Institute in the State being run under Government control. The new campus of the Institute has been completed and it has become fully functional from the year 2007-08. There is a Food Craft Institute at Jammu for which the Ministry has sanctioned Rs.475.00 lakh and released Rs.200.00 lakh during the financial year 2007-08. The Ministry has further released Rs.9.60 lakh under the Scheme Capacity Building for Service Providers Programme (CBSP) to CEO, LAHDC, Leh for skill up-gradation of 60 students during the financial year 2007-08. During the meeting at Leh, the demand for a training institute was raised by the CEO of the LAHDC for fulfilling the capacity-building needs in all important aspect of tourist sector; Ladakh region does not have one, as a result, young person of the area are not able to pursue career in travel and tourism industry. (Para 49, ibid )

Reply of the Government 120. One Food Craft Institute at Leh has been sanctioned.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 121. The Committee notes the reply given by the Ministry. 122. In view of tremendous potential that the tourism industry has for employment generation for the people of Jammu and Kashmir, need for more such training Institutes can hardly be over emphasized. The Committee feels that the existing institutions would not be sufficient for the need of the growing demand of the trained manpower in the hospitality sector. Therefore, the Committee recommends that there should be atleast two more such institutes one to be located in Leh. Besides, more Food Craft Institutes should also be opened up in consultation with the State Government. (Para 50, ibid )

Reply of the Government 123. Appreciating the fact that the State of Jammu & Kashmir needs facilities for the training of man power in the hospitality sector, the Ministry of Tourism had sanctioned in the year 2007-08, a Food Craft Institute at Jammu. The Central contribution towards the setting up of this institute would be Rs. 475 lakhs of which Rs.375 lakhs will be for civil work and the balance for the purchase of equipment. The first instalment of the grant amounting to Rs.200 lakhs has already been released. Ministry of Tourism has sanctioned a Food Craft Institute at Leh. The Central assistance for this institute would also be Rs. 475 lakhs of which Rs.375 lakhs will be for civil work and the balance for the purchase of equipment. The first instalment of the amounting to Rs.200 lakhs has been released. It may be mentioned that these two institutes are in addition to the existing institute of Hotel Management at Srinagar.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 124. The Committee notes the reply.

INCREDIBLE INDIA CAMPAIGN 125. During the meeting Secretary, Jammu & Kashmir Tourism pleaded that the current spending for publicity was inadequate and it needed to be increased further. Other States were spending far more than it is being done in Jammu & Kashmir. It was a general feeling amongst all the stakeholders of tourism in Jammu & Kashmir who appeared before the Committee that Kashmir was not given due prominence in the Incredible India campaign launched by the Government of India across the globe. The Committee also feels that the outlay earmarked for the Media Campaign and promotional activities for J&K is not sufficient and should be increased adequately so that the State got adequate publicity both in India and abroad. ‘Incredible India campaign’ should give due prominence to Jammu & Kashmir with increased participation in international tourism marts for promoting brand Kashmir. (Para 52, ibid )

Reply of the Government 126. Recommendation of the Committee has been noted. Domestic Media Campaign for the promotion of Jammu & Kashmir Region during the year 2007-08 and early 2008-09 was launched with a gross outlay of Rs.11,79,22,058/-. Advertisement spots were released in various Hindi, English and Regional Language TV channels. A Print Media Campaign in National and Regional Newspapers for the promotion of Jammu & Kashmir among the domestic travellers was also launched in 2007-08 and early 2008-09. This campaign was launched for an amount of Rs.l,64,23,024/- and the advertisements were released in various Hindi, English and language newspapers.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 127. The Committee does not consider spending to be real indicator of performance. In this case despite crores of rupees spent, there was no desired impact otherwise people would not have pointed out about lack of adequate publicity, to the Committee. In this case either the money was not spent prudently or it was less than required. The Committee still feels that the State was not getting adequate attention in this regard. It wants the Ministry to analyze the impact of the existing ad-campaign and take up with renewed vigour alongwith the State Government.

ADVERSE TRAVEL ADVISORIES

128. The Committee recommends that the Government of India must put in all possible efforts to advise all countries to co-operate and not issue negative travel advisory for its citizens in the wake of some isolated incidents in J & K. The Committee also desires that the media may be sensitized not to hype the tourist arrivals in the valley and they should project the objective situation about the Srinagar in order to de-link tourism from law and order situation. (Para 53, ibid )

Reply of the Government 129. The issue of negative travel advisories in the wake of some isolated incidents in various states/UTs in India including Jammu & Kashmir has been taken up by the Ministry of Tourism while addressing international fora and through the Indian Missions overseas. The Ministry of Tourism Government arranged a two day visit to Srinagar and Gulmarg in August, 2009 for heads of the 14 India tourism offices overseas as well as officers from the Overseas Marketing., Publicity and International Co-operation Divisions of the Ministry. The objective of the visit was to give the officers first hand experience of the tourism products, infrastructure facilities and ground situation in the State so as to enable them to effectively promote the State in the tourist generating markets overseas.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 130. The Committee notes the reply given by the Ministry and desires that the Government should continuously strive for promoting Jammu & Kashmir in the tourist generating market abroad.

DEVELOPMENT OF AIRPORTS AND AIR-CONNECTIVITY 131. Air travel had been till a few years back confined mainly to the upper economic strata of our society largely between the metros. It has, over the years registered unprecedented growth due to various factors such as rising incomes, more corporate activity, low cost airlines, cheaper fares and absence of adequate rail and road transport infrastructure. At such a time when the air travel is becoming affordable, the airport and other infrastructure in the country have come under tremendous pressure. The existing infrastructure, with the increase in flights and air traffic has proved to be old and inadequate. This called for not only expansion and modernization of Airports, across the country but also increase in air connectivity to the existing as well as to the new cities and places. The pressure was more evident in the States having much tourism potential, for example, in Jammu & Kashmir. Airports and air connectivity play a vital role in promoting tourism in the State. The Department- related

Parliamentary Standing Committee on Transport, Tourism and Culture, therefore, focused on the status of airports and air connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir. The Committee during its visit discussed different aspects of these issues with the representatives of the Government of Jammu & Kashmir, Union Ministry of Civil Aviation, Airports Authority of India, National Civil Aviation Company Limited, Indian Air Force, LAHDC and those of tour and travel operators from the State. (Para 54, ibid )

132. The Ministry of Civil Aviation, NACIL and Airport Authority of India furnished a detailed background notes on the subject for consideration of the Committee. The details of the discussions held by the Committee and the Committee’s observations thereon have been brought out in the succeeding paragraphs. (Para 55, ibid )

DEVELOPMENT OF AIRPORT INFRASTRUCTURE 133. There are four operational airports in the State of Jammu and Kashmir located in, Jammu, Srinagar, Leh and Kargil. The first three airports belong to Ministry of Defence, where Airport Authority of India maintains civil enclaves for handling civil domestic operations. The one at Kargil belongs to the State Government having the operations of Indian Air Force. (Para 56, ibid )

JAMMU AIRPORT 134. Jammu Airport belongs to the Ministry of Defence and the Airports Authority of India maintains a civil enclave. The terminal building has a capacity of 500 passengers at a time and has passenger amenities like, central air conditioning, CCTV, conveyors, X-ray baggage machines and fire control system. The domestic traffic handled by this airport for the year 2007-08 is 6.16 lakh passengers and at a level of 30% growth rate it is estimated to have a passenger inflow of 17.60 lakh passengers by the year 2011-12. (Para 57, ibid ) 135. Giving the details of developmental works completed so far at the airport of Jammu, the Ministry informed that resurfacing and extension of runway from 6000 ft. to 6700 ft. with provision of high intensity lights at a cost of Rs.8 crores, construction and modification of terminal building at Rs.10 crores and extension and strengthening of apron at a cost. of Rs.2 crores had since been completed at Jammu Airport. The extension of terminal building from 5250 sqm to 6717 sqm for increasing the capacity from existing 500 passengers to 650 passengers at a cost of Rs.8 crores would be completed during 2008-09. Land is available for modifications. In addition to this, expansion of apron for parking of aircraft from existing three to four aircrafts will also be undertaken. Construction of additional link taxi track connecting runway and apron at a cost of Rs.12 crores is also in the pipeline subject to the availability of land from the State Government and IAF. 136. When asked about the future development works plans of Jammu airport, the Airports Authority of India replied that due to land constraints, further development of the Civil Air terminal was not feasible at present location. They have further stated that new civil air terminal complex on river Tawi side was proposed for which land measuring 137.75 acres has been requested for acquisition by State Government at an estimated cost of Rs.250 crores. Runway was proposed to be extended from existing 6700 ft to 9000 ft to cater for wide bodied aircrafts. Land measuring about seventeen acres would be required from Army at an estimated cost of Rs.50 crores and all these works would involve shifting of HT lines, High Mast towers and construction of bridge across the river Tawi and diversion of canals. (Para 59, ibid )

SRINAGAR INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT 137. Srinagar airport, declared as an international airport by Government of India vide notification effective from 11th March, 2005 belongs to Ministry of Defence. Airports Authority of India maintains a civil enclave for handling civil domestic operations as well as limited international haj operations. The terminal building has a capacity of 500 passengers at a time with all modem passenger amenities including central heating system. The building has been modified to facilitate operation of limited international haj flights since February, 2008. The domestic traffic handled by this airport for the year 2007-08 is 8.97 lakh passengers and at a level of 30% growth rate it is estimated to have a passenger inflow of 25.62 lakh by the year 2011-12. (Para 60, ibid ) 138. The Airports Authority of India informed the Committee that under phase-l of the development works of the airport extension of apron from 13000 sqm to 31036 sqm area for four AB-320 aircraft at a cost of Rs.2.21 crores has been completed. Extension and modification of terminal building for integrated operations from 500 passengers to 950 passengers (500 domestic and 450 international) with four aerobridges at an estimated cost of Rs. l02 crore was underway. The entire new building was expected to be put into operation by July 2008. 139. The Committee was informed that under phase-2, expansion of apron from 31036 sqm to 55820 sqm, strengthening of existing apron and additional link taxi track to increase aircraft parking stands from four to nine at a cost of Rs.28 crores would be undertaken during 2008-09. In addition to this construction of cargo complex and extension of car park have also been planned but above works involve transfer of 14.5 acres of IAF land to AAI. It has a dedicated HAJ Terminal and during 2007- 08, 8100 Haj pilgrims were handle. (Para 62, ibid )

KARGIL AIRPORT 140. Kargil Airfield, belonging to the State Government, has been developed by Airports Authority of India at a cost of Rs.37.81 crores to fulfill the air-traveling needs of the people of this region, which comprises of very complex and hilly terrain with equally difficult road connections. The infrastructure at this airport has been developed to cater for operations of ATR 42 type of aircraft. The terminal building of the airport has the capacity of 100 passengers at a time with all the essential facilities. (Para 63, ibid ) 141. In the meeting held at Leh the representative of LAHDC submitted a memorandum to the Committee stating inter-alia that Kargil Airport was in bad shape and upgrading the Airport, extensive renovation, expansion and repair works of Kargil Airport has been pending for decades. He also submitted that the current length of 6000 ft. was not sufficient for Boeing flights. Therefore, runaway was required to be extended at least by 3000 ft. He also submitted that till the Kargil Airport underwent the face lift, private airlines be asked to operate a 50 seater ATR aircraft’s regular service to cater passengers for Kargil from Delhi, Jammu, Srinagar and Vice-versa. The Committee was informed by Chairman, Airports Authority of India that a feasibility study for extension of runway to 9000 ft. was carried out by a joint team of AAI and DGCA and it was observed that runway was not only required to be extended but also needed to be widened with standard basis strip as per ICAO recommendations. The land profile and hill terrain of the area did not permit such expansion and extension of runway and basic strip. Also, airline operators need to decide about the type of aircraft they intend to operate. Thereafter, an expert team including representatives from airlines can visit and study the feasibility. (Para 64, ibid )

LEH AIRPORT 142. Leh Airport situated in the Ladakh Region of Jammu and Kashmir State is the highest altitude airport in the world for civil aircraft operations. This airport belongs to the Ministry of Defence, where AAI maintains a civil enclave. The terminal building has the capacity to handle 250 passengers at a time. The domestic traffic handled by this airport for the year 2007-08 is 1.55 lakh passengers and at a moderate level of 10% growth rate it will have an estimated passenger inflow of 2.27 lakh passengers by the year 2011-12. (Para 65, ibid ) 143. The Committee was informed that development works such as modification of terminal building with car park and other associated infrastructure for handling 250 passengers at a time costing Rs.2 crore, construction of new apron for two AB 320 aircraft costing Rs.8 crore and construction of new canopy on the city side of terminal building for meeting adverse weather conditions at a cost of Rs.2 crore had been completed so far. 144. The Airports Authority of India has planned to construct new terminal building for 500 passengers with two aerobridges, expansion of apron for access to aerobridge at an estimated cost of Rs.112.15 crore subject to the availability of 5.31 acres of land to be transferred from IAF. The Chairman, Airports Authority of India informed during the meeting at Leh that the issue of transfer of land that was pending with the IAF for a long time had been settled and that the IAF had agreed to transfer an alternate land in lieu of the demanded one and that the work in this regard would start immediately. The Committee expresses its happiness and hopes that the work would now be started without further delay. The Committee hopes that the Ministry of Defence will consider the request of Airports Authority of India for transferring of land for other Airports also so that the process of their modernization could be expedited. (Para 67, ibid ) Reply of Government 145. Demarcation of land by officials of Revenue Department of Government of J&K has been completed. The State Government is, however, yet to provide the map highlighting the demarcated portion of the land and hand over land to AAI. 146. AAI will finalize the work of construction of a new terminal building for 500 passengers and expansion of apron, etc. upon handing over of land to AAI by State Government of J&K. FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 147. The Committee hopes that the Ministry will vigorously pursue the matter of getting land from the State Government and construct new terminal building. AIR CONNECTIVITY 148. Jammu and Kashmir is presently connected by three major airports. Jammu, Srinagar and Leh are being connected by six, seven and three operators respectively, with the rest of the country. Majority of these service providers offer direct flights to Srinagar from Delhi and Mumbai only. There is no direct service between Srinagar or Jammu with other metro or major airports in the country. In the case of Srinagar-Leh sector and vice-versa, there is no air-connectivity, except one flight of Air India operating per week. The Jammu-Leh sector is also neglected. Except Air Deccan’s daily flight between Delhi-Leh, no other operator is providing daily service. Even the Air India operates only three days a week citing poor seat factor. On being asked, representative of NACIL stated that in view of poor seat factor and consequent cash losses, NACIL did not have any plan to increase services to/from Jammu, Srinagar and Leh. The Committee was further informed that NACIL had flight specific fares, apex fates and easy fares to attract the tourists for Jammu and Kashmir. (Para 68, ibid ) 149. During the deliberations of the Committee in Srinagar and Leh, the Stakeholders in the tourism industry emphasized the need for improvement in air connectivity to the State and also within the State. Promotion of Kargil and Leh as a major tourist destinations would depend on the air connectivity to these places. Air connectivity assumes great importance in these areas because there are no good as well as all weather roads. As a result, these areas remain cut-off from rest of the country when roads are covered with snow during long winters. Lack of air connectivity therefore, was a major drawback for tourists to reach those areas, particularly during winters. (Para 69, ibid ) 150. The Committee while on the visit also received representation from Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, Leh on the following issues: (i) Increase in the frequency of flights: At present all the flights from Delhi and back are operating with full occupancy and it becomes very difficult to get a confirm ticket. The Council has received information that the flights are booked till September. The non-availability of seats compels the tourists to visit some other areas or cancel their trip altogether. Further the tourists visiting Kashmir Valley and opting to extend their trip to Leh cannot do so as there is only one flight in a week from Srinagar to Leh. Therefore, the Council demands that: The Airlines operating Delhi-Leh-Delhi should be requested to increase the frequency of their flights in summer months and the schedules should be nottfied at least 6 months in advance. The private airlines operating Leh-Delhi should be asked to introduce flights from Srinagar and Jammu also. On being asked about the reason for private operators not flying on the routes in Jammu & Kashmir, the Committee was informed that current route disperal guidelines allowed them to retain their right to determine which route in 2A category they want to operate. They have to serve 2 percent of their flights to Jammu & Kashmir and North Eastern region. To fulfill the obligation, private airlines prefer to fly North Eastern destination and ignore Jammu & Kashmir as the former gives them more revenue. (Para 70, ibid ) 151. The Committee feels concerned about the private airlines not flying in Jammu & Kashmir region and taking advantages of loopholes in the Route Dispersal Guidelines. The Committee, therefore, strongly recommends to modify the Route Dispersal Guidelines in such a way so as to make them mandatory to fly to places like Leh and Kargil also. (ii) Ladakhi Architecture in the new Airport Terminal: The Council appreciated the funds allotted by the Central Government for up gradation and modernization of Leh Airport and terminal. The Council emphasized that terminal building at Leh should be built with Ladakhi Architecture, which has unfortunately being ignored in the present building. (Para 71, ibid )

Reply of Government 152. At present the details of scheduled air services in the State of Jammu and Kashmir are as under:

NACIL (1) Delhi-Jammu-Srinagar and return A319 Daily Delhi-Leh-Jammu & Return A320 2 FIt/week Delhi-Leh-Srinagar & Return A320 1 FIt/week Delhi-Srinagar-Delhi A320 Daily

Jet Airways Delhi -Jammu -Srinagar- Delhi A-737 Daily Delhi -Srinagar-Jammu -Delhi B-737 Daily Delhi-Leh-Delhi B-737 Daily Delhi- -Delhi (Army Charter) B-737 1 Ft/week

Jet Lite Delhi-Srinagar- Delhi A-320 Daily Mumbai-Srinagar-Jammu-Mumbai B-737 Daily

Kingfisher Delhi-Srinagar-Delhi A-320/321 Twice Airlines

Red Delhi-Leh-Delhi A-320 Daily Kingfisher Delhi-Srinagar-Delhi Delhi-Jammu-Delhi

Spice Jet Delbi-Srinagar-Jammu& Return B-737 Daily Deihi-Jammu-Srinagar & Return B-737 Daily

Go Air Mumbai-Jammu-Srinagar-Mumbai A-320 3 Ft/week Delhi-Srinagar-Jammu-Delhi A-320 4 Ft/week Delhi -Jammu-Srinagar- Delhi A-320 2 Ft/week

153. The Committee will appreciate that the private airlines are also providing air services in the State of Jammu & Kashmir.

154. As regards modification of Route Dispersal Guidelines (RDG), it is stated that at present, NACIL (1), Jet Airways and Kingfisher Airlines are operating scheduled air services to/from Leh with 16 flights per week at an average passenger load factor of 57%. Coupled with the global economic slow down, currernt financial crisis being faced by the domestic airlines and resultant decline in aviation activity in recent months it will pot be prudent to modify Route Dispersal Guidelines and pressurize domestic airline operator by making it mandatory for them to fly in these sectors. 155. Scheduled domestic airlines who are operating on Category 1 routes (Trunk routes) are operating in the North-East Region, Jammu & Kashmir, Andaman & Nicobar Island and Lakshadweep Island to fulfill the capacity deployment requirements contained in the Route Dispersal Guidelines issued by the Government.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE

156. The Committee hopes that with the increase of tourists, Ministry of Civil Aviation will review the policy to ensure adequate number of flights in the sector. The Committee notes that there is only one flight to Leh by NACIL(I) that too is indirect and only once a week, while two private airlines were operating direct daily flights to Leh. It means the Delhi-Leh is a profit making route, NACIL not operating flights to Leh makes the Committee curious about the reasons. NACIL flight, if operated will help Government employees who avail of LTC to Leh as the LTC air travel is permissible only by NACIL flights. 157. The Committee while appreciating the development works being carried out by the Airports Authority of India in the State, desires that pending work at Jammu & Srinagar airports be completed within the scheduled time-frame. The Committee emphasizes the need for increasing the international services from the Srinagar airport to attract mainly international tourists. (Para 72, ibid )

Reply of Government 158. AAI is making all efforts to complete the ongoing development works at Jammu and Srinagar airports at the earliest. The new terminal building constructed at Srinagar has been commissioned on 14.2.2009. The expansion of apron work at Srinagar is likely to be completed by June, 2009.

159. As regards development works of Jammu airport, it is submitted that modification of the terminal building and expansion of apron are in various stages of planning. .. . FURTHER RECOMMENDATION/OBSERVATION OF THE COMMITTEE 160. The Committee notes the reply. 161. The Committee is of the opinion that the has not received due attention and the Kargil airport is not being used to its potential. It has caught the imagination of the tourist now. The Committee recommends that till the work of extension of Kargil Airport is undertaken and completed, the Government should operate ATR 42 between Leh-Kargil-Srinagar. The Committee is not quite convinced with the shortage of the ATR pilots as was sought to be made out by the NACIL during the meeting. To begin with this service may be thrice per week, to be made daily later on. The Committee feels that this would not only help promote tourism but also increase economic activity in the region. Kargil is an area with lots of scenic beauty and cultural heritage. The Committee, therefore, recommends strongly that the NACIL must take the necessary steps in this direction and start services in this sector as early as possible. (Para 73, ibid ) Reply of Government 162. The proposal for extension of runway & other associated works for civil flight operations by TR-72 type of aircraft is linked with availability of land and additional land required for the purpose. Further, the funds required for the development works, approx. Rs. 46.50 crores, are to be released by J&K Government State Government has already requested to provide additional land free of cost and free from all, encumbrances. State Government’s reply is awaited. 163. The variant of ATR 42, which is available with Alliance Air, is ATR-42-320, which is equipped with PW 121 engines, and the aircraft has ceiling altitute of 25000 feet. The peaks available on the proposed route from Srinagar to Kargil to Leh are in excess of 23000 feet and keeping the minimum clearance over mountainous region of 2000 feet, it exceeds the operational capability of the aircraft ceiling of 25000 feet. 164. Moreover, there are further issues regarding aircraft high altitude operation certifications and high altitude performance, which seriously restrict the pay load capability. 165. As such, in view of the operating limits of the aircraft and the routes/airports involved, operations to Kargil and Leh with A TR-42-320 is technically unfeasible. . 166. At present no scheduled domestic airline is operating any air services on Leh-Kargil-Srinagar sector. Government has laid down route dispersal guidelines with a view to achieve better regulation of air transport services taking into account the need for air transport services of different regions of the country. It is, however, upto the airlines to provide air services to specific places depending upon the traffic demand and commercial viability. As such, the airlines are free to operate anywhere in the country subject to compliance of route dispersal guidelines issues by Government. FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 167. The main thrust of the recommendation of the Committee was to provide air connectivity to Kargil region with other parts of the country. If operating ATR-42 type of aircrafts on this route is not feasible, other options may be considered for providing air connectivity to Kargil. 168. The Committee is constrained to say that the Leh Airport building did not reflect the local ethnic architecture. In this connection Committee would like to invite the attention of the Government to its recommendations contained in the 88th report which is reproduced below: “....the Committee emphasized that while constructing the terminal building local art and architecture should be kept in mind and building should be designed accordingly. Civil Aviation and Tourism go hand in hand as airport is the gateway for the tourists, which should unveil the rich cultural and architectural heritage of the region. This would also attract more and more tourists and would substantially take care of the capacity under-utilization problem of the airports. The Committee also pointed out that adequate care should be taken with the help of the State Government to open shopping outlets/cafeteria for showcasing local cuisines/handicrafts etc. (Para 74, ibid ) Reply of Government 169. The suggestion/recommendation of the Committee has been noted and will be incorporated to the extent technically feasible. FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 170. The Committee notes the reply. 171. The Committee finds that one of the major impediments in development of Leh as a major tourist destination is the non-availability of direct flight service between Leh and other major cities. The existing service between Delhi-Leh by the national carrier should be made daily service. The Committee hopes that development of airports and increased air connectivity to this region will definitely play a significant role in increasing the tourist influx to the State. The Committee expresses its dismay over the fact that NACIL does not have any plan to increase services to/from Jammu, Srinagar and Leh. The Committee also feels that there is inadequate publicity about the special fares being offered by NACIL viz . easy fare, apex fares and flight specific fares and link fares as a result of which most of the tourists are not able to make use of the packages being offered by the NACIL. The Committee is of the view that if 50 seater ATR aircraft are used in this region, the cash losses perhaps may go down. The Committee also recommends that NACIL should ensure due publicity of its special fares. (Para 75, ibid ) Reply of Government 172. The thrice-weekly services operated by NACIL on the Leh-Delhi routes provides for onward connectivity to all the major Indian cities and cities outside India via Delhi, which is the hub for domestic as well as international services. 173. NACIL do not have plans to increase the frequency of services on the Delhi Leh route in view of average load factor of about 38% on annualized basis on these services. Similarly, NACIL do not plan to increase the services on other routes since the average load factor on annualized basis on these services has been 60% or less. However, NACIL do operate additional services/to/from the cities in J&K to cater to the short term demand for traffic subject to availability of resources and commercial viability. 174. At present, scheduled domestic airlines are operating 16 flights/week on Delhi Leh Sector as per the details given below:

NACIL (I) Delhi-Leh-Jammu & Return A320 2 Flts/Week Delhi-Leh-Srinagar & Return A320 1 Flt/Week Jet Airways Delhi-Leh-Delhi B737 6 Flts/Week Kingfisher Delhi-Leh-Delhi A320 Daily Red (Earlier Deccan)

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 175. Instead of relying on the average load factor of about 38% on annualized basis, the Ministry of Civil Aviation should increase the frequency in peak season and holidays. The Committee notes that Private airlines are operating daily flights between Delhi and Leh whereas the NACIL operates just two flights a week to Leh. The Committee is unable to understand what prevents NACIL from operating daily flights to Leh, while the private airlines are operating on a daily basis. 176. Sometimes, due to lack of coordination between Airlines, AAI and Air Force regular commercial flights are cancelled or delayed leading to avoidable inconvenience to the passengers and loss of revenue. The Committee is of the considered view that under normal circumstances the regular commercial flights should not be disturbed due to Air Force sorties. (Para 76, ibid )

Reply of Government 177. All operational airports in J&K, namely Jammu, Srinagar and Leh belong to IAF (MOD) and AAI maintains civil enclaves. Air Traffic Control Services are provided by IAF. AAI makes all efforts to ensure smooth aviation operation keeping in view the operational requirement of IAF in this highly sensitive border State. FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 178. The Committee understands the constraints of Airport Authority of India in Jammu and Kashmir region. However, all efforts should be made to ensure that normally no regular commercial flights should be disturbed due to lack of coordination with other agencies. 179. The Committee has learned that A-320 aircraft flying to Leh have to carry more load than the allowed. The Committee recommends that instead A-320, A-319 aircrafts should be operated in this sector that comparatively has more load capacity. (Para 77, ibid )

Reply of Government 180. Aircraft of the class of Airbus A-319/320 or Boeing 737 new generation are subject to load penalty flights to/from Leh due to high altitude operation. Thus, any change in aircraft type in Airbus A-320 or Boeing 737 new generation family will have to experience similar load penalty for Leh operations. 181. As regards operation of A319 instead of A320, the A319 aircraft in NACIL’s fleet are not technically cleared to the high altitude airfield like Leh, as Certification Take off at 12000 ft. altitude, 15 kts tail wind and -3 degree slope are required for Leh. However, as 30 Airbus A320 aircraft owned by NACIL (I), have this certification to take care of Leh operations.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 182. In view of the position explained above the Committee would like to know what kinds of aircraft are being operated by private-operators and what is their experience? 183. It was also brought to the notice of the Committee that during peak season airfare from different stations to Srinagar shoots up and no upper limit has been prescribed for fare. As a result, journey to Kashmir becomes costlier than going to Singapore, Malaysia, etc. The Committee is of the view that there should be some regulation of fares for this sector and people of the Jammu and Kashmir may be given relaxation in airfare on the pattern of North-East region. (Para 78, ibid ) Reply of Government 184. Domestic air fares are not being regulated by the Government, Domestic airlines are free to charge air fares as per the market forces. FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 185. The Committee was aware of this position when it made this recommendation. Idea of the Committee was to ensure that more and more people visit Kashmir region mainly due to its strategic importance. The Committee reiterates its recommendations and feels that there should be some kind of regulation of fares to Jammu and Kashmir and not being left to vagaries of market forces and may be given relaxation in airfares. DEVELOPMENT AND MAINTENANCE OF NATIONAL HIGHWAYS IN SRINAGAR PRIME MINISTER’S PACKAGE 186. The Ministry further informed that Reconstruction Plan for Jammu and Kashmir was announced during the visit of Prime Minister to the State on the 17th and 18th November, 2004. Under the Reconstruction Plan seven roads were proposed to be improved. The details of reconstruction taken under the Prime Minister’s package are as under: 1. Construction of to connect in district of Kashmir valley with poonch and Rajouri regions in Jammu Executing agency --- PWD, J&K Length of road --- 84 kms Cost based on Preliminary survey --- Rs. 159 Crs. (Central share 50%) Cost based on DPR --- Rs.639.85 Cr.(Central share 50%) The original target date of completion --- March, 2007 Revised target date of completion --- April, 2010 Up-to-date expenditure till April, 08 --- Rs. 162.35 crore 2. Widening of Domel-Katra road (NH-IC) Executing agency --- BRO Length of road --- 14.4 kms Cost based on Preliminary survey --- Rs. 30.00 Crs Cost based on DPR --- Rs.34.39 Cr. The original target date of completion --- March, 2007 Revised target date of completion --- July, 2008 Up-to-date expenditure till April, 08 --- Rs 27.11 crore 3. Double-laning of Batote-Kishtwar-Sinthan pass- Road (NH-IB) Executing agency --- BRO Length of road --- 265 kms Cost of the project --- Rs. 463 Crs (including cost of Rs. 100 crore for advancing the target date from 2013 to 2011) Anticipated Cost of project --- Rs.703.13 Cr. Requirement of fund for --- Rs. 90 - 100 crore per year Expenditure April, 08 --- Rs. 133.38 crore 4. Upgrading Srinagar - Uri LOC road Length of the road --- 111.5 kms. Road is being development in two stretches as under: (a) Srinagar - Uri (NH-IA) Executing agency --- BRO Length of road --- 94 kms Cost of work based on Preliminary survey --- Rs. 121 Crs. Anticipated Cost of project --- Rs. 439.39 Cr. Original Target date of completion --- March, 2009 Revised target date of completion --- March, 2010 Expenditure April, 08 --- Rs. 208.83 crore (b) Uri - LOC Executing agency --- BRO Length of road --- 17.5 kms Cost of work based on Preliminary survey --- Rs. 34 Crs. Cost of estimate now anticipated --- Rs. 58.00 Cr. Target date of completion --- March, 2009 Expenditure April, 08 --- Rs. 25.1 crore 5. Construction of Khanabal-Pahalgam Road Executing agency --- PWD J&K Length of road --- 43 kms Category of road --- Major District Road Cost based on Preliminary survey --- Rs. 25 Crs. Anticipated Cost of project --- Rs. 110.00 Cr. Original Target date of completion --- March, 2007 Revised target date of completion --- Dec. 2008 Expenditure April, 08 --- Rs. 51.35 crore

6. Construction of Narbal- road Executing agency --- PWD J&K Length of road --- 37 kms Category of road --- Major District Road Cost based on Preliminary survey --- Rs. 38 Crs. Anticipated Cost of project --- Rs.116.00 Cr. Original Target date of completion --- March, 2007 Revised target date of completion --- Sept. 2009 Expenditure April, 08 --- Rs. 51.90 crore

7. Double laning of Srinagar - Kargil-Leh Road (NH-ID) Executing agency BRO Declared as NH - 1 D 30 th March, 2006 Length of road 422 kms Cost based on Preliminary survey Rs. 426.4 Cr. Cost of project now anticipated Rs. 807.03 Cr. Target date of completion March, 2012 Expenditure April, 08 Rs. 105.9 crore (Para 82, ibid ) 187. The main reasons for delay in execution of almost all the projects in the State of Jammu and Kashmir were attributed to following: (i) The availability of limited working months, hardly four months, in a year, due to difficult climatic conditions of the area. Agencies executing the work, therefore, find it difficult to spend the desired amount of allocation. Now, on account of less expenditure, the Ministry of Finance and Planning Commission reduce the plan outlay at RE stage. This further aggravated the problem and the work cannot be taken up further for wants of funds, it was argued. Other problem faced in the State are the difficult and hilly terrain that not only delay the project but also increase the cost of construction as compared to plain areas.

(ii) Land acquisition and environmental and forest clearances take lot of time. There are delays in shifting of utilities also. Another peculiar problem in the State is local opposition to the engagement of outside labourers. (iii) Non availability of manpower/machinery with BRO in case of departmental execution also faced.

(iv) Non availability of Contractors of big financial and technical capability in the State of Jammu and Kashmir, was also cited as one of the reason for delay. (Para 83, ibid ) 188. The Committee found that all these projects were running far behind the schedule, delays being from 2 to 4 years and with this pace, the Committee cannot but apprehend further delays in future. The Committee is of the view that development of National Highways in Jammu and Kashmir is not only necessary for promotion of Tourism in the region but also is of strategic importance for the nation. (Para 84, ibid )

Reply of the Government 189. The Department agrees with the Committee. It has requested National highways Authority of India (NHAI) State Public Works Department and Border Roads Organization (BRO) to expedite the implementation of projects.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 190. The Committee is of the view that delays in 2 to 4 years means the project cost will escalate many folds and the revenue loss during the period should also to be taken into consideration. The total volume of the financial loss to the exchequer is a matter of concern that requires urgent attention. The Committee desires that coordination among various agencies should be made to expedite the works and avoid any further delay. 191. The Committee appreciates the problem encountered in the construction of National Highways in Jammu and Kashmir particularly on account of climatic conditions, topography, hilly terrain including shortage of manpower. Such forced stoppage of work naturally results in under utilization of funds. It is unfortunate that this in turn leads to reduction of plan outlay by the Ministry of Finance and Planning Commission. The Committee expresses its concern about this and is convince about the need for providing special guidelines in respect of Jammu and Kashmir in keeping with these peculiar problems to ensure that funds are available in time for the work relating to National Highways in the region. In this connection Committee would like to reiterate its earlier recommendation made in its 84th report on Demands for Grants (2005-06) of the Department of Road Transport and Highways. “The Committee appreciates the concern of the Ministry of Finance for ensuring that the expenditure position in all the Ministries should have an even flow throughout the year. In order to achieve this, Ministry of Finance have issued a direction that only 33% of the BE should be spent in the last quarter of the year. However, so far as Department of Road Transport and Highways is concerned, the working in different parts of the country is affected due to weather conditions and the restriction imposed by the Ministry of Finance creates a setback to the physical activities in the areas of construction of Highways and Bridges by the Department. The Committee, therefore, recommends that the Ministry of Finance may reconsider its decision and taking into account the peculiarity of the pattern of utilization of funds due to factors which are beyond the control of the Department, the Department of Road Transport and Highways should be exempted from any such restriction on expenditure and should be allowed to spend their allocated budget on various activities which are required to be carried out during that particular period.” (Para 85, ibid )

Reply of the Government 192. The Department agrees with the views of the Committee. The Secretary (Expenditure) is being requested to exempt Department of Road Transport and Highways from restriction on expenditure in last quarter of the financial year 2008-09. FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 193. The Committee hopes that the matter is being pursued by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways for exemption and the response of Department of Expenditure may be intimated to the Committee. 194. The Committee is constrained to note that the preparation of DPR for remaining section of Jammu to Srinagar section of NH - 1 A is still under process. The Government is still waiting for execution of work under BOT(Toll) Mode, which is not a viable proposition as no private agency will be interested to take up the work in that section on commercial grounds. The Committee is of the view that the Highway is of vital importance not only for the economy of the State but also for the security of the Nation. The Committee, therefore, recommends the Government should do itself and allocate necessary budgetary provisions for four laning of Jammu - Srinagar Section of NH - 1 (A) and provide plan outlay. (Para 86, ibid )

Reply of the Government 195. NHAI has been requested for finalizing DPR for remaining section of NH-IA. Draft Cabinet Note for taking up 4 laning of Jammu - Srinagar Section of NHIA on BOT Annuity mode has already been circulated and comments of some appraising Ministries received. Modified cabinet note keeping in view the comments/observations of appraising Ministries/Departments is being prepared.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 196. The Committee hopes that the recommendation of the Committee will be implemented fully. 197. The Committee feels that some kind of special procedure may be devised for the State. Funds may be put in non-lapsable category as is being done for other such areas of the Country. Cost-norms of the project also need to be made State specific. For land acquisition, environmental and other clearances etc. single-window facility be put in place at the earliest. In view of big contractors not coming forward, BRO need to be strengthened in a big way both technically and financially. Adequate security, financial and otherwise need to be given to the people working on these projects. (Para 87, ibid )

Reply of the Government 198. Border Roads Organization has taken steps to strengthen the resources and manpower in J&K State. One additional Border Roads Taks Force and two additional Road Construction Companies have been inducted recently. However due to acute security problem in J&K, fear free working for construction and development of roads is not possible. Hence adequate security cover to man and machinery is needed. Land acquisition and forest clearance for construction and development of roads is also a time consuming job, hence facility of single window clearance for this work is felt necessary.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 199. The Committee feels that Paramilitary forces could be requested to safeguard the men and material in such cases and the procedure for single window clearance may be made to expedite the work. 200. The Committee believes that with adequate planning, resources and machinery and above all with men of strong determination and will, many major projects have been completed world over even in far more arduous conditions. There is no reason; the Committee feels that we cannot do it in Kashmir. The need of the hour is to work with that sprit. (Para 88, ibid )

Reply of the Government 201. Noted. 202. The Committee pointed out the poor maintenance of National Highways and desired to know the justification of having fixed period of five years for repair of National Highways in hilly terrain that got damaged almost every year due to vagaries of the adverse climatic conditions. In response thereto the representatives of BRO admitted that the guidelines in this regard were not relevant and needed modification so as to take the climatic conditions of the area like J & K into account. (Para 89, ibid )

Reply of the Government 203. It is experienced that in non snow bound areas of J&K, renewal of road surface after five year is sufficient and road surface remains in good condition. The reason for damage of road surface in snow bound areas is frequent movement of heavy snow clearance equipments; landslides during rainy season and over flow of water on road pavement in summer season due to melting of snow. Damages of road surface in snow bound area due to above reasons cannot be prevented by reducing the repair (renewal) period of five years. Hence it is felt that rigid pavement/provision of interlocking concrete block pavement in snow bound area will be a suitable solution. Such pavement has already been constructed by BRO at Zozilla Pass on Srinagar - Kargil Leh Road NH(ID) and at TMG top to TMG Base (a GS road) in J&K State and found to be satisfactory after two to three years of snow bound conditions.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 204. The Committee notes the replies given by the Ministry. 205. The representatives of BRO further submitted that the damage caused to the national highways was also due to poor drainage system. The Committee desired to know whether BRO was involving the local bodies in the planning for the development of National Highways passing through the towns and villages with a view to avoid the damages to the National Highways by having proper drainage system to which the representative of BRO replies that they were not doing. (Para 90, ibid )

Reply of the Government 206. Department of Road Transport and Highways has noted suggestion of Committee. Road Agencies will be advised to consult local bodies for providing proper drainage system.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 207. The Committee notes the reply and hopes that it would be ensured that the road agencies consult local bodies for proper drainage system. 208. The Committee is also of the view that prescribing the fixed period of 5 years for repair of NH in hilly-terrain like that of Jammu Kashmir are not practicable as the roads there get regularly damaged due to frequent rainfall, snow-fall, poor drainage system, land slide, etc. The Committee, therefore, feels that the concerned guidelines need to be modified so as to ensure that whenever there is damage to the NH, the repair work should betaken up immediately. As regards the damage to the National Highways passing through the towns and villages due to poor drainage, the Committee, recommends that the agencies engaged in planning and development of NH should consult the local bodies to obviate the possibility of any damage to the National Highways due to poor drainage system. (Para 91, ibid )

Reply of the Government 209. The Cycle for periodical renewal, i.e provision of renewal coat to the wearing surface at a pre-determined frequency, for NHs as per the Ministry’s norms for Maintenance of Roads varies from 3 to 5 years depending upon the traffic intensity, terrain, whether the NH is passing through urban area or rural area and the type of existing bituminous wearing course. Further, this Ministry has issued instruction of immediate arrangement for diversion of traffic through alternate routes in case any NH section becomes damaged or overtopped or breached so as to necessitate suspension of traffic and also take up immediate repairs for restoration of traffic in the damaged stretches in accordance with the National highways Rules 1957. 210. The Indian Road Congress Publication IRC SP-19-2001 (Manual for Survey, Investigation and Preparation of road Projects) has inter-alia emphasized that good deal of information on drainage could be collected inter-alia through local enquiry and the most appropriate time for such enquiries is during the stage of preliminary survey. Therefore, it may be seen that there is stipulation in the manual for consultation of local bodies for making adequate drainage arrangements for NHs during project preparation stage.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 211. The committee notes the reply.

ISSUES RAISED BY THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT JAMMU AND KASHMIR 212. Surface transport being the main mode of transportation in the State is under tremendous pressure due to new housing colonies and town coming up and increase in human population. Repair of existing roads, demand of new roads and transport, facilities are required on heavy scale. Problems faced are: Bus Stand: Taxi, Mini Bus and Bus lack facilities for public and are to be developed on modern lines for which Government of India may provide financial assistances. Road Net Work: Due to increased requirement of transport and road network, the Cities and main town need to have redesign, Circular roads around them to decongest the traffic. It would also has huge financial implication. Government of India may provide necessary infrastructure and financial assistance for installation of traffic signals at all important crossing and for construction of fly-overs. Highway: Highway parks need to be built between Srinagar - Jammu Highway having basic amenities for both passengers and drivers. Mode of Transport: The local transporters who have suffered losses during the turmoil period in the State need to be given package so that the old vehicles can be replaced with latest model Hi-tech vehicles, both for inter-State and intra-State routes. The State Government has already declared 25 year old vehicles condemned and the vehicle owners are demanding special package for which a proposal has already been submitted to the Government of India. Model Driving Institutes: Model driving institutes need to be established at all the District headquarters to impart training to the drivers and also will become source of public awareness. These will help in making the State accident free zone. Vehicular Pollution: In order to reduce the vehicular pollution, environment friendly fuel like CNG needs to be introduced in the State for which the Government of India has to make policies for its availability in every district headquarter of the State. Infrastructure for Motor Vehicles Department: The motor Vehicles Department has to develop the infrastructure for the Transport Commissioner’s Office, Srinagar, Regional Transport Officers and Asstt. Regional Transport Officers except for RTO, and Transport Commissioner’s Office, Jammu. Weigh Bridges: Weigh Bridges are to be installed at Lakhanpur, , Lower Munda and in order to check the menace of over loading which is one of the main causes of accidents. Satellite connectivity between RTOs/ARTOs: There is dire need to satellite connectivity of all the RTOs and ARTOs with the Transport Commissioner’s Office.

Specialized design for passengers vehicles and load carriers: The Vehicle manufacturers need to be advised to develop specialized vehicles and load carriers for mountainous regions which can be safe for the public.

213. The Committee notes the demand submitted by the State Government. The Committee finds that most of the Demand relates to promotion of Tourism. The Committee recommends that the matter may be looked into in consultation with State Government with a view to providing necessary assistance as a special case under intimation to the Committee. (Para 93, ibid )

Reply of the Government 214. This Department has not received any proposal from the State Government of J&K. From bare reading of the para it appears that this relates to a fiscal incentive proposal for scrapping of old vehicles which relates to M/o Finance. We are not aware whether State Government of J&K have sent any proposal to Ministry of Finance.

215. This Department had a scheme for setting up of Model Drivers Training Schools which was centrally sponsored scheme. As per this scheme, State Governments were required to send the proposals to this Department. Initially the scheme was aimed at establishing one such training school in every State. No such proposal was received from the State Government of J&K. in the Eleventh Five Year Plan, the scheme was dropped. However, this Department is making efforts to revive this scheme as a central scheme with 100% funding from the Centre.

216. This Department has already notified the emission norms and other safety standards in respect of motor vehicles fitted with CNG conversion kits. As per Rule 126 of Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, the kit should be approved by any of the testing agency. Use of CNG as fuel in motor vehicles is to be decided by vehicle owners. This Department doesn’t mandate use of CNG as fuel in each and every vehicle under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.

217. Availability of any fuel including CNG is the subject matter of Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas.

218. As regards issues pertaining to Weigh Bridges and Satellite Connectivity between RTOs/ARTOs this matter pertains to State Government of J&K. Therefore, a copy of the recommendations/observations of the Parliamentary Standing Committee has been sent to the Government of J&K for appropriate action.

219. As regards specialized design for passengers vehicles and load carriers this matter has been referred to Automotive Research Association of India, Pune.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 220. The Committee is of the view that Model Driving Training Schools scheme be revived at least for the States/Union Territories like Jammu and Kashmir who could not give proposals. The Committee is surprised to learn that Ministry of Road Transport and Highways does not have anything to do with promotion of use of CNG in Motor Vehicles. The Committee emphasises the need for putting a school in place for this purpose with the help of Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. 221. The Committee would like to know the response of ARAI, Pune as said in para 219 above. 222. The Committee recommends construction of roads from Tsomoriri in Leh to Spiti in Himachal Pradesh via Parangal Pass and opening of Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage via Demchok in Ladakh as an alternative pilgrimage route. The Committee finds that the budgetary allocation for road projects in Ladakh is given on the basis of being a district which is very meager considering the vast area of Ladakh region (or road projects. The Committee recommends that special fund should be provided for road connectivity projects in Ladakh region from the Central Road Fund. (Para 96, ibid )

Reply of the Government 223. The Ministry has already sanctioned 61 works for Rs.408.57 crore in the State of Jammu & Kashmir. The Central Road Fund accrual during the year 2008-09 is Rs.54.92 crore. The ratio of Bank of Sanction to CRF accrual is at present 3.92 well above the permissible ratio of CRF. Further sanction is possible if the State Government ptilizes the funds.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 224. The Committee recommends that the State Government should be pursued to utilize the funds so that additional funds may be provided. CONSERVATION AND MAINTENANCE OF MONUMENTS IN SRINAGAR CIRCLE 225. The Committee notes that all the regions of Jammu and Kashmir have enormous archaeological wealth in different forms that need to be preserved and protected. But only 99 monuments/archaeological sites were declared as protected, either by the ASI or the State Archaeology Department. Amongst the remaining ones the Committee feels most of them require to be brought under protected category immediately. The Committee, therefore recommends that to save the important historical monuments in the State from extinction their conservation and restoration should be given top priority by the ASI and the State Government. To enable the ASI to carry out its activities in a better way, the Ministry of Culture should consider shifting of Circle office from Jammu to Srinagar for administrative purposes. (Para 103, ibid )

Reply of the Government 226. So far as Srinagar Circle of the ASI is concerned there are 69 monuments/sites which have been transferred on de-facto basis from the State Government to the Central Government in the year 1958 for their maintenance and upkeep. In respect of most of the monuments/sites, protection notifications have been issued under the relevant. section of AM&ASR Act, 1958 defines their respective boundaries. After taking over of the monuments in the year 1958, the Srinagar Circle of the ASI, has taken adequate care to maintain and preserve the cultural heritage of the State subject to the manpower financial constraints. So far as bringing more monuments under the control of the ASI is concerned, necessary steps will be taken to survey various regions of J&K including Ladakh and identify important historical monuments/sites that can qualify to be declared as monuments to national importance under the provisions of AM&ASR Act, 1958. A team of archaeologists have been constituted to survey the regions and formulate a report for the purpose. A programme will be chalked out to provide adequate resources for taking up maintenance and conservation of these monuments. Necessary steps to declare some of the monuments as monuments of national importance under the provision of the Act, have already been initiated. The preliminary and final notification shall be issued after considering the objections, if any. In case of the following monuments, the preliminary notifications were issued but final notifications have not been issued for the reasons indicated against them: 1. Bhim Garh Fort at (Due to objections raised by the State Government) 2. Gompas & Other Historical remains adjoining Leh Palace (No feed back from the local State authority about the objections received, if any of issuance of final notification). 227. So far as shifting the Circle office from Jammu to Srinagar is concerned, it is submitted that the office at Srinagar is also functioning with some staff members. The conservation works are being carried out there as per the Conservation Programme approved. At Jammu, the Office of the Superintending Archaeologist used to function during winter months from December to April every year. In the year 1989, the camp office could not move to Srinagar owing to the circumstances then prevailing in the valley. In the past, miscreants made some attempts to attack the office building at Srinagar, due to which some watch and ward staff got scared. The matter is under consideration and the old arrangement shall be restored as soon as possible.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 228. The Committee has noted the reply and emphasises the need for providing more resources and man power to the ASI in Jammu and Kashmir for carrying out the on-going work and taking up additional ones. 229. It also recommends the Ministry of Culture to examine the proposals submitted by the State Government for the protection and restoration of Bhimgarh Fort, Hari Parvat and Old Nagar City under centrally protected monument for expeditious disposal. Sanctioning a special grant to ASI for maintaining the monuments which were damaged by the earthquake in the State should be considered and decision be intimated to the Committee.

Reply of the Government 230. The monuments namely Bhimgarh Fort, Reasi and Hari Parvat Fort are State protected. The Bhimgarh Fort at Reasi in District Udhampur is a State protected monument under the control of the State’s Department of Archaeology, Archives and Museum. Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has been looking after its maintenance. A preliminary notification was issued on 8th November 2002 by the ASl to declare the Fort as a monument of national importance. A meeting was convened by the Principal Secretary, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, Deptt. of Higher and Technical Education on 24th March 2003 to discuss the modalities of handing over the Fort to the ASI. The State Government mentioned the following important points in the meeting:-

(i) ASI should reimburse all the maintenance costs incurred by Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board hitherto. (ii) ASI should absorb all the employees of various agencies working for the maintenance of the fort. (iii) Terms and conditions for handing over are being worked out and shall be communicated to ASI later. (iv) Till the above three points are resolved, ASI should withhold the final notification. 231. ASI has assessed the damage caused to these monuments. Steps are being undertaken to carryout the restoration works.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 232. The Committee recommends that all the modalities should be worked out at the earliest to ensure that the protection and restoration work is completed in time. CONSERVATION AND MAINTENANCE OF MONUMENTS 233. The Committee notes that conservation, preservation and maintenance of centrally protected monuments and sites are the prime task of ASI. In spite of all the adversities, the Archaeological Survey of India was doing stupendous task of repairs and conservation of the monuments for maintaining their historical and aesthetic values. The Committee appreciates the ASI for its work particularly in structural repairs, chemical preservation and environmental development works around monuments. (Para 106, ibid )

Reply of the Government 234. ASI is grateful to the Hon’ble Parliamentary Committee for its words of appreciation. ASI would continue to shrive for maintaining high standards in the matter of protrection and conservation of national monuments.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 235. The Committee reiterates its demand for strengthing/expanding the ASI. 236. But at the same time the Committee feels that ASI should conduct preservation, heritage managment and exploration of new destinations of historic importance for promotion of tourism in the State especially in Ladakh region. Kargil has tremendous potential for exploring tourism and cultural heritage. The Committee was informed that three rocks carved statues (Bamyan type) of Avalakateshvara from Ghandhara form of art situated at Barsoo Nalluh, Appatii in Kargil block and Mulbekh in block are lying unattended since years and need immediate preservation. The Committee recommends that the Ministry of Culture and the ASI must undertake for maintenance and preservation of these historical/religious place, object and buildings on priority basis. Funds be earmarked for this purpose. (Para 107, ibid )

Reply of the Government 237. To assess the damage caused to these monuments due to vagaries of nature and human vandalism, a team shall be constituted. The team will also explore the areas falling in Kargil and Leh Districts for promotion of Tourism and Culture. It will also attend to the preservation of Rock carved statues and other archaeological monuments and artifacts. Since the areas of Kargil and Ladakh are cut off from the rest of the country during the winter months, ASI endeavor would be to accomplish the task during the available working-season by augmenting its strength.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 238. The Committee has noted the reply of the Ministry of Culture. 239. The Committee notes that ASI is taking up the scientific study and chemical preservation in Ladakh region with a view to identify the conservation problem of various monasteries in the region namely , , , , Lakir, Phyang etc. The Committee finds that most of the monasteries are living monasteries and are at present under religious use and many changes in the original structures and painting are being effected by the Lamas in the monasteries. The Committee feels that this has caused heavy damage and posed great challenges in protecting of these monuments. (Para 109, ibid )

Reply of the Government 240. Recently one Dy. Superintending Archaeological Chemist has been posted to the Srinagar Circle to look after the Chemical Preservation of monuments in the Circle. The painting was inspected on 6.6.2008 by the Science Branch officers with the consent of Lamah and it was decided to undertake scientific preservation work of painting located in South-East wall of the assembly hall measuring about 16.00 Sq.mt. in a phased manner. The cost estimate in this respect is under preparation and its execution will be taken up in the next year as it is not possible to undertake this work now due to inclement weather. 241. Some conservation work of painting in sum-tesk shrine of in the inner hall of Shey Palace was taken up. A workshop was also organized by the Archaeological Survey of India at Shey-Palace in order to make Lamas and the local people aware of the need of preservation of paintings. An amount of Rs.50,000/- has been allotted for Alchi painting conservation in this financial year. The work will be taken up after the weather conditions become more favourable. 242. The Committee is anxious to note that ASI was not allowed to take up conservation work at and Lakir monastery by the management Committee headed by the Lamas. The Committee feels that these monasteries being the treasure house of the Buddhist architecture and literature must be preserved to retain its ancient glory. The Committee recommends that ASI in coordination with the local representatives should make efforts to convince Lamas to persuade them to allow ASI to take up conservation and preservation work at the monasteries in the region so that the glory of ancient Buddhist monastic tradition and cultural heritage could be saved. The Committee saw itself that these monasteries needed urgent help to protect and preserve their rich cultural heritage that are being damaged in various ways. The Committee recommends that the schools run by the monasteries were being given some support by the Ministry of Culture. It was informed that the help was too meager to have any impact. The Committee recommends that this cultural support for the schools run by monasteries be enhanced adequately this financial year itself.

Reply of the Government 243. So far as conservation of Hemis Monastery is concerned, recently on, 31.08.2008, a meeting was convened by Srinagar Circle in Leh with the management of Hemis Monastery in which it was emphasized that the ASI is keen on taking up the preservation and restoration of the Monastery support and cooperation of the Monastery Management was sought.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 244. The committee appreciates the efforts made by the Archaeological Survey of India in this regard, particularly is being able to take up preservation of painting inside the monasteries. STRUCTURAL REMAINS 245. The Committee wants to put on record its appreciation for ASI’s Srinagar Circle for conducting archaeological excavations and exploration in Jammu and Kashmir resulting in discovery of new sites and structural remains of great cultural and historical importance. The Committee feels these findings help in understanding sequence of different cultural assemblage of the by gone era in the State. The Committee desires the need for increasing the activities of ASI particularly, excavation and exploration to other important sites in the Jammu and Kashmir. ASI needs to be strengthened adequately for carrying out such activities.

Reply of the Government 246. During the visit of the Parliamentary Committee in the month of June, 2008, necessary information about the archaeological excavation and exploration carried out by the Circle was presented to the Committee during its visit to Pari Mahal, Srinagar. It was emphasized that it is necessary to go for scientific clearance of Pari Mahal to expose its buried terraces which can throw more light on archaeological importance of the monument and the cultural heritage of the Jammu and Kashmir. A proposal will be prepared for taking up the scientific clearance of the monument. FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 247. The Committee notes the view and desires that the proposal may be expedited. PUBLICATIONS 248. The Committee appreciates that the ASI is publishing brochures on the ticketing monuments in J&K for information of the tourists. The Committee desires that the brochures should also be published in the regional language besides Hindi and English, for wider coverage. (Para 116, ibid ) Reply of the Government 249. ASI has taken note of the suggestion of the Hon’ble Parliamentary Committee and needful would be done. FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 250. The Committee notes the reply. 251. The Committee recommends that the ASI should bring out the field reports and publish reviews periodically of the activities carried out during each year on time. (Para 117, ibid ) Reply of the Government 252. ASI has taken note of the suggestion of the Hon’ble Parliamentary Committee. Needful would be done. FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 253. The Committee notes the reply. BUDGET 254. The Committee is of the considered view that allocation of Rs.2.38 crore under the Plan and Rs 4.10 crore under the Non-Plan made to the Circle would not be adequate for carrying out conservation and maintenance activities during the year 2008-09. The Committee feels that apart from on-going projects, a large number of conservation works are yet allocation to the Srinagar Circle for in view of the stupendous task of repairing and conservation of monuments before them. The Committee also recommends that the Government should identify the schemes for conservation and maintenance of monuments for which MPLADS and MLA funds could be utilized, particularly, in Ladakh region so that the dependence over Government for funds can be reduced to some extent. (Para 119, ibid ) Reply of the Government 255. Effort would be made to provide sufficient allocation to Srinagar Circle to meet its requirements. In case of any shortfall, MPLADS and MLA funds would also be approached.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 256. The Committee notes the reply of the Ministry.

TICKETED MONUMENTS 257. The Committee notes with concern the decline in number of persons visiting the monments. It, however, recommends that more monuments be brought under the ticketed category but the charges be kept as nominal and the revenue earned should be given to the ASI for the conservation and maintenance of the monuments.

Reply of the Government 258. The entry fee @ Rs.5/- per head for domestic, SAARC and BIMSTEC tourists and @ Rs. l00/- per head for foreign tourists is being levied on the following centrally, protected monuments in Jammu and Kashmir:--

1. Group of Temples, Kiramchi, District Udhampur. 2. Ancient Palaces attributed to Raja Suchet Singh, Ramnagar, District Udhampur.

3. Avantiswami Temple, Avantipura, District Pulwama.

4. Ancient Palace, Leh, District Leh (Ladakh). 259. The tourist inflow during the last three years at these ticketed monuments in Jammu and Kashmir was:

Year Indian Foreigner

2006 9109 1769

2007 11544 1859

2008 11236 2433

260. Adverse climatic conditions during the winter months and difficult law and order situation impact the tourists-inflow to these monuments. Nevertheless, efforts would be made to attract more and more visitors.

261. So far as bringing more monuments under the ticketed category is concerned, Srinagar Circle of the Archaeological Survey of India has proposed levy of entry fee at Sun Temple at Martand and Pari Mahal at Srinagar.

262. It is stated that as per the procedure the revenue earned through entrance fee at protected monuments is deposited in the Consolidated Fund of Government of India and cannot be used by Archaeological Survey of India. However, budgetary support is provided by Government of India to Archaeological Survey of India for its monument protected and conservation works.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 263. The Committee feels that revenue generation measures like hike in fee for using the sites for commercial purposes may be considered by the Ministry.

TOURIST AMENITIES AT THE MONUMENTS 264. The Committee notes that besides the conservation and maintenance works, the ASI, Srinagar Circle was also improving to a great extent the environs of the monuments by providing roads, electrification, etc. as also amenities to the tourist including toilet and drinking water facilities at different places. (Para 123, ibid ) Reply of the Government

265. The commendatory observations of the Hon’ble Parliamentary Committee is acknowledged and appreciated by Archaeological Survey of India.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 266. The Committee notes the reply.

TOURIST AMENITIES AT THE MONUMENTS AND SECURITY OF MONUMENTS

267. The Committee however during its visit to Leh noted that Hemis and Thiskey monasteries did not have basic facilities like drinking water and toilets. The Committee recommends that these basic facilities should be provided in all the monuments in the State, especially, the Hemis and Thiskey monasteries in Leh and attract large number of tourists. (Para 124, ibid )

Reply of the Government

268. Possibility of providing drinking water/toilet facilities at Hemis Monastery would be explored as and when its Management Committee allows the ASI to undertake conservation work at the monastery. So far as providing drinking water and toilet facilities at Thicksey are concerned, the Management Committee of the monastery has been requested to provide space for it.

269. The Committee notes with concern that large number of group D posts are lying vacant, as a result, the ASI was facing difficulties in ensuring the security of the monuments in the State. The Committee considers this as a major obstacle in the process of maintenance of monuments. The Committee recommends that the Ministry of Culture should ensure that the vacant posts in the Circle be filled up on priority and new posts also be created as per the requirements. Steps may also be taken to train the Monuments’ Attendants so that they can take care of the monument more effectively.

(Para 126, ibid )

Reply of the Government 270. ASI is in the process of submitting a proposal to the Government for cadre restructuring which would also be addressing the staff shortage issue.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 271. The Committee desires that its recommendation is implemented fully to fill the vacancies of Group D employees and Monuments Attendants.

HORTICUL TURAL ACTIVITIES 272. The Committee appreciates the archaeological garden development works in the State especially in the Srinagar and Jammu region. The Committee recommends that more gardens should be developed in the archaeological sites in the State. In Srinagar world famous Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh have been the main source of tourist attraction. The Committee recommends that the “light and sound” programme which was used to be arranged in collaboration with ITDC in Shalimar Bagh be restarted immediately. (Para 128, ibid )

Reply of the Government 273. ASI has plans to develop gardens at Akhnoor Fort in . Shalimar bagh and Nishat Bagh are with the State Government, who would be advised to arrange Sound and Light Show at these Baghs in collaboration with I.T.D.C.

FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE 274. The Committee desires that to attract more tourist Sound and Light Show (S&L show) should be started at the earliest. 275. The Bangus valley of Jammu and Kashmir is a virgin area with full of scenic beauty and great tourism potential. However, the area is visited by very less tourists due to lack of basic amenities, infrastructure and development in and around the area. If it is developed properly the area has all the potential to become one of the major tourist spots of Jammu and Kashmir. The Committee, therefore, recommends that the Govt. of India should include this area for development as a mega tourist spot and adequate funding may be provided for overall development of the area.

OBSERVATIONS/CONCLUSIONS/RECOMMENDATIONS –– AT A GLANCE

The data provided by the Ministry shows a mere 0.03% increase in the tourist growth during the year 2008. This data further supports the observations of the Committee. The Committee hopes that the Ministry will take further measures to improve the tourist flow to the country. Further, the Committee desires that the target for the tourist arrival should be specified so that actual status of tourist growth may be arrived at and is comparable. (Para 8)

DEVELOPMENT OF TOURISM IN JAMMU AND KASHMIR

The Committee is aware of the peculiar situation of Jammu and Kashmir and the practical problem in ensuring tourist arrival. It however, hopes that the tourist inflow will take new peaks in the changed situation in the region. The Ministry should also project the improved situation through advertisements so that more tourists are attracted to visit the State. (Para 11)

The Committee desired that blue print of the tourism promotion plans may be elaborated so that the Committee would be able to make some contributions and suggestions to the plan. (Para 14)

TOURIST ARRIVALS The Committee recommends that the Ministry may pursue the matter to ensure that the States/Union territories implement the guidelines for formation of Tourist Security Organizations (TSO). The Ministry should also coordinate with the State and Union Territories to speed up the action of setting up Tourist Security Organizations. (Para 18) The Committee notes the reply of the Ministry and feels that the press may be sensitized about the issue and close interaction may be maintained with media-persons to ensure a more positive projection of ground realities in the State. (Para 21) ADVENTURE TOURISM The Committees hopes that the setting up of Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering (IISM) is a beginning and the Ministry will endeavour to set up more such institutions at other places in Jammu and Kashmir. (Para 24)

The Committee notes the reply of the Ministry with dismay. The Committee feels that the Ministry should have obtained the reference of the State Government before submitting replies to it. The Committee desires that the Ministry should further pursue the matter with the State Government. It is expected to adopt a proactive approach in such matters. (Para 27)

The Committee finds the reply to be blatantly evasive. The recommendation was about developing adventure tourism in the State and adequate publicity thereof. Most regretfully, the replies about the first part have been held up. The Committee hopes this was not deliberate. It expects the officials to be more careful while preparing replies on Committee’s recommendations/observation. The Committee reiterates its recommendations that the Ministry should prioritize the Adventure Tourism projects in Jammu and Kashmir and give adequate publicity in India and abroad. (Para 31)

The Committee would like to be informed of the steps taken by the Government of Jammu and Kashmir for development of trekking routes. The Committee would also like to know about the efforts made by the Ministry to obtain State Government’s response to all such paras sent to them. The Ministry can not wash its hands off just by forwarding Committee’s recommendations to the State. It is their responsibility to procure them and submit to the Committee with replies. (Para 34)

The Committee is happy to note that IISM has been handed over its building at Gulmarg. The Committee hopes that IISM will now help in exploration of avenues of adventure and sports tourism in the region. (Para 37)

PILGRIM TOURISM The Committee feels that Ministry of External Affairs may further pursue the matter with Chinese authorities. (Para 44) The Committee feels that mere agreeing to the proposal does not serve the purpose of providing publicity to ‘B&B and PG’ (‘Bed and Breakfast’ and ‘Paying Guest Accommodation’). The Ministry must inform the Committee about the steps taken to provide publicity to boost tourism. (Para 47)

The Committee thanks the Ministry for delineating the roles of the Union and State Governments in promotion of tourism. As such it is a joint responsibility; the replies also should have been prepared jointly. It would have been highly obliged, had the Ministry responded specifically to the Committees recommendations/observations that were specific about facilities to pilgrims of Vaishno Devi Temple. The Committee notes the allocation of resources in the Eleventh Plan. The Committee hopes that the sanctioned amount will be utilized judiciously within the scheduled period.

The Committee hopes that response of the State Government will be communicated to the Committee as soon as possible. (Para 53)

TOURISM INFRASTRUCTURE

The Ministry may explore Public-Private-Partnership model for setting up construction of luxury hotels to boost high end tourism in the State. (Para 56)

The Committee may be apprised of the action taken by the Ministry of Civil Aviation. The Committee feels that the Ministry of Civil Aviation may be pursued further to act on the recommendations of the Committee. (Para 59)

The Committee to its utter dismay notes that the Ministry has again very conveniently stepped out of the line by just passing the recommendations of the Committee to the Ministry of External Affairs and the State Government. The committee further hopes that in view of the importance of the matter, more proactive approach would be taken in coordination with the concerned Ministries/authorities.

The Committee may be apprised of any plan received from Government of Jammu and Kashmir. If not, the Ministry may advise the State Government to send proposals. (Para 65)

The Committee does not accept this as a reply and request the Ministry to submit specific reply in consultation with the State Government. (Para 68)

The Committee hopes that the Ministry will pursue the matter with the Government of Jammu and Kashmir and inform the Committee about the action taken. (Para 71) The Committee notes the sanctioning of Food Craft Institute and release of Rs.200 lakhs. The Committee hopes that the Institute will be opened shortly. The Government should explore the possibility of providing good quality budget hotels with convention centers through PPP mode or otherwise. (Para 74)

CENTRAL FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE SCHEME IN JAMMU AND KASHMIR

The Committee feels that timely implementation of the projects will result in better utilization of funds. Hasty works at the end of the financial year to consume the balance funds ultimately results in wastage of money as the quality standards could not be followed in works. The expenditure blue print may help to implement the plans step by step in an organized way. (Para 77)

The Committee while agreeing with Ministry observes that monitoring was a continuous process, still finds a shortfall and pendency. The Committee feels that the present mode of monitoring system needs improvement for achieving better goals. (Para 80)

The Committee desires that the matter may be pursued further and the Committee may be informed the response from the State Government. (Para 83)

CENTRAL FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE SCHEME IN JAMMU AND KASHMIR

The Committee notes the reply given by the Ministry and hopes that with modified CFA, the State would be able to utilize the money. (Para 86)

The Committee recommends that the State Government may be pursued to fill up the posts urgently. The Committee also desires to know the response and the present status thereof. (Para 89)

The committee desires to know the response of the Ministries and State Government over the issue. (Para 92)

The Committee further recommends that the examination and finalization of the projects should be done in a time bound manner with Ministry of Tourism acting as facilitator in the regard. (Para 95) The Committee notes the reply of the Government. (Para 98)

RELAXATION IN INNER LINE RESTRICTION The matter may be pursued with Ministry of Home Affairs and this response may be intimated to the Committee. (Para 101)

The Committee desire to know the response/stand of Ministry of Home Affairs and that of the State Government. The Ministry of Tourism should pursue the matter with them and inform the Committee accordingly. (Para 104)

TOURIST TRANSPORT The Committee feels that mere communication to the State Government does not serve the purpose. The need of the hour is to sensitize the State Government to look into the issue and make plans for the road transport sector so that tourism is made convenient. There is a need to support the State Government by providing expertise and financial help to reform the transport sector. Such replies in fact, reflect all pervasive attitude of passing the buck in our delivery system. (Para 107)

The matter, after it was referred to the State Government of Jammu and Kashmir, it appears, has not been pursued for taking appropriate action. The Committee recommends that the Ministry of Tourism may ask the State to submit a detailed proposal to be placed before the Committee at the earliest.

GONDOLA The Committee notes the reply. (Para 113) The Committee notes the reply and expects the Ministry to submit the response of the State Government at the earliest. (Para 116)

LEAVE TRAVEL CONCESSION The Committee notes the reply given by the Ministry. (Para 119) HOTEL MANAGEMENT INSTITUTE AT SRINAGAR The Committee notes the reply given by the Ministry. (Para 122) The Committee notes the reply. (Para 125)

INCREDIBLE INDIA CAMPAIGN The Committee does not consider spending to be real indicator of performance. In this case despite crores of rupees spent, there was no desired impact otherwise people would not have pointed out about lack of adequate publicity, to the Committee. In this case either the money was not spent prudently or it was less than required. The Committee still feels that the State was not getting adequate attention in this regard. It wants the Ministry to analyze the impact of the existing ad-campaign and take up with renewed vigour alongwith the State Government. (Para 128) ADVERSE TRAVEL ADVISORIES The Committee notes the reply given by the Ministry and desires that the Government should continuously strive for promoting Jammu and Kashmir in the tourist generating market abroad. (Para 131) LEH AIRPORT The Committee hopes that the Ministry will vigorously pursue the matter of getting land from the State Government and construct new terminal building. (Para 148) AIR CONNECTIVITY The Committee hopes that with the increase of tourists, Ministry of Civil Aviation will review the policy to ensure adequate number of flights in the sector. The Committee notes that there is only one flight to Leh by NACIL(I) that too is indirect and only once a week, while two private airlines were operating direct daily flights to Leh. It means the Delhi- Leh is a profit making route, NACIL not operating flights to Leh makes the Committee curious about the reasons. NACIL flight, if operated will help Government employees who avail of LTC to Leh as the LTC air travel is permissible only by NACIL flights. (Para 157)

The Committee notes the reply. (Para 161)

The main thrust of the recommendation of the Committee was to provide air connectivity to Kargil region with other parts of the country. If operating ATR-42 type of aircrafts on this route is not feasible, other options may be considered for providing air connectivity to Kargil. (Para 168)

The Committee notes the reply. (Para 171)

Instead of relying on the average load factor of about 38% on annualized basis, the Ministry of Civil Aviation should increase the frequency in peak season and holidays. The Committee notes that Private airlines are operating daily flights between Delhi and Leh whereas the NACIL operates just two flights a week to Leh. The Committee is unable to understand what prevents NACIL from operating daily flights to Leh, while the private airlines are operating on a daily basis. (Para 176)

The Committee understands the constraints of Airports Authority of India in Jammu and Kashmir region. However, all efforts should be made to ensure that normally no regular commercial flights should be disturbed due to lack of coordination with other agencies. (Para 179)

In view of the position explained above the Committee would like to know what kinds of aircraft are being operated by private-operators and what is their experience? (Para 183)

The Committee was aware of this position when it made this recommendation. Idea of the Committee was to ensure that more and more people visit Kashmir region mainly due to its strategic importance. The Committee reiterates its recommendations and feels that there should be some kind of regulation of fares to Jammu & Kashmir and not being left to vagaries of market forces and may be given relaxation in airfares. (Para 186)

DEVELOPMENT AND MAINTENANCE OF NATIONAL HIGHWAYS IN SRINAGAR

The Committee is of the view that delays in 2 to 4 years means the project cost will escalate many folds and the revenue loss during the period should also to be taken into consideration. The total volume of the financial loss to the exchequer is a matter of concern that requires urgent attention. The Committee desires that coordination among various agencies should be made to expedite the works and avoid any further delay. (Para 191)

The Committee hopes that the matter is being pursued by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways for exemption and the response of Department of Expenditure may be intimated to the Committee. (Para 193)

The Committee hopes that the recommendation of the Committee will be implemented fully. (Para 196)

The Committee feels that Paramilitary forces could be requested to safeguard the men and material in such cases and the procedure for single window clearance may be made to expedite the work. (Para 199) The Committee notes the replies given by the Ministry. (Para 204)

The Committee notes the reply and hopes that it would be ensured that the road agencies consult local bodies for proper drainage system. (Para 207)

The committee notes the reply. (Para 211)

ISSUES RAISED BY THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT, JAMMU AND KASHMIR

The Committee is of the view that Model Driving Training Schools scheme be revived at least for the States/Union Territories like Jammu and Kashmir who could not give proposals. The Committee is surprised to learn that Ministry of Road Transport and Highways does not have anything to do with promotion of use of CNG in Motor Vehicles. The Committee emphasises the need for putting a school in place for this purpose with the help of Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. (Para 220)

The Committee would like to know the response of ARAI, Pune as said in para 219 above.

The Committee recommends that the State Government should be pursued to utilize the funds so that additional funds may be provided. (Para 224)

CONSERVATION AND MAINTENANCE OF MONUMENTS IN SRINAGAR CIRCLE

The Committee has noted the reply and emphasises the need for providing more resources and man power to the ASI in Jammu and Kashmir for carrying out the on-going work and taking up additional ones. (Para 228)

The Committee recommends that all the modalities should be worked out at the earliest to ensure that the protection and restoration work is completed in time. (Para 232)

CONSERVATION AND MAINTENANCE OF MONUMENTS

The Committee reiterates its demand for strengthening/expanding the ASI. (Para 235)

The Committee has noted the reply of the Ministry of Culture. (Para 238)

The Committee appreciates the efforts made by the Archaeological Survey of India in this regard, particularly is being able to take up preservation of painting inside the monasteries.

STRUCTURAL REMAINS

The Committee notes the view and desires that the proposal may be expedited. (Para 247)

PUBLICATIONS

The Committee notes the reply. (Para 250)

The Committee notes the reply. (Para 253)

BUDGET

The Committee notes the reply of the Ministry. (Para 256)

TICKETED MONUMENTS

The Committee feels that revenue generation measures like hike in fee for using the sites for commercial purposes may be considered by the Ministry. (Para 263)

TOURIST AMENITIES AT THE MONUMENTS The Committee notes the reply. (Para 266)

TOURIST AMENITIES AT THE MONUMENTS AND SECURITY OF MONUMENTS

The Committee desires that its recommendation is implemented fully to fill the vacancies of Group D employees and Monuments Attendants. (Para 271)

HORTICULTURAL ACTIVITIES

The Committee desires that to attract more tourist Sound and Light Show (S&L show) should be started at the earliest. (Para 274) The Bangus valley of Jammu and Kashmir is a virgin area with full of scenic beauty and great tourism potential. However, the area is visited by very less tourists due to lack of basic amenities, infrastructure and development in and around the area. If it is developed properly the area has all the potential to become one of the major tourist spots of Jammu and Kashmir. The Committee, therefore, recommends that the Govt. of India should include this area for development as a mega tourist spot and adequate funding may be provided for overall development of the area. (Para 275)

MINUTES

VIII EIGHTH MEETING

The Committee met at 3.30 P.M. on Tuesday the 9th February, 2010 in Committee Room ‘A’, Ground Floor, Parliament House Annexe, New Delhi.

MEMBERS PRESENT 1. Shri Sitaram Yechury ----- Chairman

RAJYA SABHA 2. Shri Ramdas Agarwal 3. Shri Birendra Prasad Baishya 4. Shri Shadi Lal Batra 5. Shri Naresh Gujral 6. Shri Syed Azeez Pasha 7. Shri Thomas Sangma

LOK SABHA 8. Shri Mahesh Joshi 9. Shrimati Bhavana Gawali Patil 10. Shrimati Ranee Narah 11. Shri Rajaram Pal 12. Shri Nama Nageswara Rao 13. Shri S.D. Shariq 14. Shri Dushyant Singh 15. Shri K. Sugumar 16. Shri Anurag Singh Thakur 17. Shri Kabir Suman 18. Shri K.C. Venugopal

SECRETARIAT Shri N.K.Singh, Joint Secretary Shri Jagdish Kumar, Director Shri Swarabji B., Joint Director

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2. At the outset, the Chairman welcomed the Members of the Committee. Thereafter, the Committee took up the draft 152nd and 153rd Reports on the Action Taken by the Government on its recommendations/observations contained in 140th Report on ‘Promotion of Tourism in Jammu and Kashmir’ and 149th Report on ‘Development of Tourism Infrastructure and Amenities for the Commonwealth Games 2010, respectively, for consideration and adoption. The Committee adopted both the reports with minor additions/ modifications.

3. The Committee authorized its Chairman to nominate the Members to present the reports to the Parliament during the ensuing Budget Session. 4. While considering the Reports, the Committee noted the inordinate delay in preparing the Action Taken Report on the 149th Report. The Committee was informed that this delay was due to late submission of action taken notes by the Ministry of Culture. The Chairman informed the Committee that after a number of reminders, the Ministry submitted the ATNs on the 4 th February, 2010, nearly one year after the presentation of Report to the Parliament. 5. While examining the action taken replies of the Ministry of Tourism, the Committee noticed that to a large number of its recommendations, the Ministry had replied that it has forwarded the recommendations to the concerned agencies. The Committee was of the view that the Ministry of Tourism should have obtained the responses of those agencies and provided to it for taking a view. By not doing so, the Ministry has not taken the Committee’s recommendations as seriously as they deserved. It expressed its concern about inordinate delay in submitting action taken replies and also about not giving proper/complete replies. The Committee directed the Secretariat to convey its concern to the Ministries of Culture and Tourism.

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14. A verbatim record of the proceedings was kept.

15. The meeting adjourned at 5.20 P.M.

***Relate to other matters.