Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav has said the proposed Agra, Lucknow, Varanasi “Heritage Arc” was an important step towards promoting tourism the State. “The decision to develop the “Heritage Arc” by incorporating the “city of manners and etiquette”, Lucknow, “the city of the Taj” and the religious and cultural centre, Varanasi will open a new chapter in tourism promotion”, Mr. Yadav said.
Inaugurating the “UP-Travel Mart, 2015” at the Lamartiniere College Ground here on Sunday night, the Chief Minister said it is a well-known fact that the Taj Mahal is known the world over for its beauty and grandeur. “It is the State Government’s endeavour to draw tourists visiting Agra to Lucknow and Varanasi,” the Chief Minister said. Referring the tourism potential of Varanasi and the steps taken by the State, Mr. Yadav said if his Government spends one rupee for Varanasi’s development it is expected that the Central Government would spend Rs. 100 for the same.
Mr. Yadav said Uttar Pradesh is endowed with rich tourism potential, but a proper publicity is needed for wooing the tourists. He said in keeping with the times several changes have been made in the world. “Now, speed is the mantra, tourism has been granted the status of an industry in many countries and it has enabled them to strengthen their economy”, Mr. Yadav stated. The Chief Minister said the State Government is working on the same direction. “Tourism industry will not only create job opportunities it will also lead the State on the path of progress”, he added.
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Mr. Yadav said Uttar Pradesh has many rivers and historical monuments, which have to be tapped for their tourism potential. He mentioned the development works presently underway to beautify the banks of the Gomti in Lucknow.