Uttar Pradesh Government Launches 12 Thematic Tourism Circuits for Holistic Development
In a significant move to revitalize tourism, Uttar Pradesh Tourism Minister Jaiveer Singh detailed a comprehensive strategy in the state assembly on Monday. The government has adopted a structured approach by dividing the state into 12 distinct thematic tourism circuits, aiming to ensure inclusive and balanced growth across all regions.
Diverse Circuits to Showcase State's Rich Heritage
The 12 circuits are designed to promote various aspects of Uttar Pradesh's cultural and natural wealth. These include the Ramayana circuit, Krishna-Braj circuit, Buddhist circuit, Mahabharata circuit, shaktipeeth circuit, spiritual circuit, Sufi-Kabir circuit, Jain circuit, Bundelkhand circuit, ecotourism circuit, wildlife & environment circuit, and craft & freedom struggle circuit. Minister Singh emphasized that this initiative targets religious, historical, ecological, and cultural tourism, providing a multifaceted appeal to both domestic and international visitors.
Response to Opposition Queries on Long-Term Vision
The announcement came during a discussion on the recently tabled state budget, where Samajwadi Party MLAs Kamal Akhtar and Nafees Ahmad raised questions about the government's long-term tourism policy. They sought specifics on which destinations are being developed to attract tourists. In his response, Minister Singh asserted that the circuit-based model reflects a forward-looking vision to position Uttar Pradesh as a major tourism hub.
"The circuits were not created on the basis of religion or caste, but with the objective of bringing together all communities and showcasing the state's diverse cultural heritage," the minister stated, highlighting the inclusive nature of the initiative.
Substantial Progress in Tourism Projects
Singh provided detailed figures on the government's achievements, noting that between 2022 and 2025-26, a total of 110 tourism-related projects were completed. These projects span various communities and heritage sites:
- 43 projects linked to Buddhist sites
- 30 related to Jain heritage
- 6 sites associated with the Valmiki community
- 19 for the Ravidas community
- 1 for the Raidas community
- 7 connected to the Kabir panth
- 9 related to gurdwaras
- 5 projects commemorating Dalit icon BR Ambedkar
Increased Budgetary Allocation Compared to Previous Government
Taking a critical stance towards the previous administration, Minister Singh claimed that in 2017, only 24 tourism projects were undertaken with a budgetary provision of Rs 109 crore. In stark contrast, he highlighted that the current government has allocated Rs 1,734.31 crore for tourism in the 2024-25 budget, which is nearly 15 times higher. This substantial increase underscores the government's commitment to boosting the tourism sector as a key economic driver.
Focus on Constituency-Specific Development
Addressing MLA Kamal Akhtar directly in the assembly, Singh mentioned that development works have also been carried out in his constituency, Kanth in Moradabad. This point was made to illustrate the widespread impact of the tourism initiatives, ensuring that benefits reach local areas and contribute to regional development.
The comprehensive approach outlined by the minister aims to not only enhance tourism infrastructure but also foster social cohesion by celebrating the state's diverse traditions and histories. With these efforts, Uttar Pradesh is poised to become a premier destination for travelers seeking rich cultural experiences and natural beauty.
