India funds development of 40 lesser-known tourist sites to boost local economies

The Union ministry of tourism has approved funding for 40 projects aimed at developing lesser-known tourist sites across 23 states. The total investment is ₹ 3,295.76 crore, with a focus on enhancing tourism and boosting local economies. Key sites include the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj museum in Goa and Loktak lake in Manipur. State governments will manage the projects, with 66% of the first funding installment already released. The ministry encourages states to consider alternative destinations to reduce overcrowding at popular sites. It emphasizes sustainable tourism practices and community engagement in project development.