Lucknow: The Government of Uttar Pradesh has announced a significant tourism development initiative aimed at strengthening the state’s position on the global tourism map. Under the plan, 33 tourism projects across 8 districts will be developed with an investment of ₹79.18 crore.
The initiative is being led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, with a focus on improving religious, cultural, and historical sites while generating employment and promoting the “Temple Economy” model.
33 Projects to Be Completed by March 2026
The Uttar Pradesh tourism department has prepared a mega action plan to complete all projects by 31 March 2026.
Key highlights of the plan:
- Development of 33 tourism and religious infrastructure projects
- Coverage across 8 districts of Uttar Pradesh
- Total investment of ₹79.18 crore
- Execution under the supervision of Uttar Pradesh Rajkiya Nirman Nigam
The initiative aims to upgrade tourist facilities and enhance accessibility at major pilgrimage and heritage sites.
Focus on Religious and Cultural Destinations
The selected districts include major religious and cultural hubs across the state:
- Mirzapur: 7 projects
- Chitrakoot: 6 projects
- Banda: 6 projects
- Bhadohi: 5 projects
- Mahoba: 3 projects
- Sonbhadra: 2 projects
- Hamirpur: 2 projects
- Lucknow and Sitapur: 1 project each
These locations will see upgraded infrastructure to improve visitor experience and boost tourism inflow.
Temple Economy Model to Drive Employment
Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh stated that the government is working on the principle of “faith with development”.
The key objectives include:
- Creating new employment opportunities through tourism
- Attracting investment in religious tourism
- Strengthening the Temple Economy model
- Boosting local economic development
Officials believe the initiative will directly benefit local communities through increased tourism activity.
Major Investments in Lucknow and Naimisharanya
Significant funding has been allocated for key destinations:
- Lucknow (Hulas Kheda, Mohanlalganj): ₹11.99 crore for tourism development
- Naimisharanya (Sitapur): ₹1.49 crore for development of Bedarnayam site
- Multiple projects in Mirzapur with allocations up to ₹2.15 crore each
These projects aim to modernize facilities at important pilgrimage and heritage locations.
Boost for Bundelkhand Tourism Development
Special focus has been placed on the Bundelkhand region, including Chitrakoot, Banda, Mahoba, and Hamirpur.
Key allocations include:
- Chitrakoot: ₹1.81 crore to ₹9.05 crore across six projects
- Banda: Up to ₹3.38 crore for multiple development works
- Mahoba & Hamirpur: Funding for temple and heritage site development
The region is expected to benefit significantly from improved tourism infrastructure.
Fast-Track Tendering and Project Execution
The government has directed implementing agencies to accelerate tendering and ensure timely execution of all projects.
Key instructions include:
- Fast-track tender (bidding) process
- Strict quality control during construction
- Completion of all projects by March 2026 deadline
Officials emphasized that there will be no compromise on construction standards.
