5.45-mn tourist arrived in India during 2001-03

As many as 5.45 million foreign tourists visited India between 2001 and 2003 (Jan-Feb), Minister of Tourism Jagmohan informed the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday.

While 2.45 million and 2.36 million tourists visited India during the year 2001 and 2002 respectively, 0.55 million foreign tourists arrived here during 2003, till February, he said in a written reply.

To another question, the minister said 5,41,2863, 5,26,8246 and 4,57,8404 tourists visited Jammu and Kashmir during the years 2000, 2001 and 2002 respectively.

He said the department of tourism, in consultation with the state government has identified the Himalayan Circuit, which includes Leh Palace, monasteries and Dal Lake for integrated development.

The Gulmarg Winter Sports project has also been revived.